Arianne Zucker, who has played Nicole Walker on "Days Of Our Lives" since 1998 is leaving the NBC Soap Opera. She will officially leave the show in April when her contract expires. Zucker became the subject of headlines when she was talked about and seen on the tape with the then-"Access Hollywood" host Billy Bush and Donald Trump. While Bush lost his job, Trump went on to become the 45th President of the United States.
Zucker's decision
The 42-year-old actress considered leaving two years ago, but she stayed longer. However, this time she will not renew her contract when it is up in April. She says she knows her time is up on the popular soap opera, and besides, she is opening up a slot for someone new for the popular show that was just renewed for its 52nd season. There are more details in the new issue of Soap Opera Digest about Zucker's departure and her future plans.
Fans react
Fans of "Days of Our Lives" were shocked and saddened when they heard the news that one of their favorite actresses is leaving one of their favorite soap operas.
What makes fans feel better is that even though Zucker is leaving in April, viewers will get to see her on the show much longer. That's because the series is filmed several months in advance. You will still Arianne until much later in the year.
Not reasons why Zucker is leaving
Fans on social media reminded people that Zucker's co-star and boyfriend in real life, Shawn Christian, didn't leave the show by choice. The character of Daniel Jonas was actually fired several months ago. However, Zucker's decision was not based on that situation.
When asked if Ron Carlivati as the new head writer had anything to do with her decision to leave, Zucker said it has no bearing on her decision at all. No one knows the method the writers will use to get Nicole off the show.
Arianne says she doesn't know, but one thing she knows for sure is that the writers will do a good job for the soap opera and for the many fans who will continue to watch "Days of Our Lives" long after her exit.