Days of our Lives reaching its 60th anniversary is a television landmark, and celebrating this momentous occasion are two actors who represent different eras and archetypes of Salem: James Reynolds (who plays the esteemed former Commissioner Abe Carver) and Paul Telfer (the charming, albeit dangerous, rogue Xander Kiriakis). Though their characters are often on opposite sides of the law – and rarely share screen time outside of an arrest! – The actors have clearly developed a genuine rapport off-screen.
In this exclusive interview, Reynolds, a beloved veteran who has played Abe for over four decades, and Telfer, a fan-favourite “baddie” who has become an anchor of the current cast, come together to reflect on the show’s enduring legacy, its recent groundbreaking shift to the Peacock streaming services (in the U.S.) and the unique connection they share with the multi-generational DAYS audience.
The conversation quickly moves from the actors’ easygoing camaraderie to the true reason for the celebration: the show’s incredible staying power. The duo discuss the show’s journey, from its “rockstar days” in the 1980s to the recent pioneering move to streaming, which Telfer calls a “rebirth” that allowed the show to “flourish again.” Both actors emphasize that DAYS – and the soap opera genre at large – is a vital, ongoing cultural institution. Reynolds beautifully summarizes the generational connection, noting that viewers “grow through life with these characters as if we are part of the family,” while Telfer highlights the honour of being part of a show that has been a consistent presence in people’s lives since childhood. Their reflections reveal not only a deep respect for the show’s history but also a palpable excitement for its future as it continues to prove its relevance in the modern television landscape.
Listen to The TV Watercooler Podcast episode with Days of our Lives stars James Reynolds and Paul in the players above, or listen and follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram.
