On Instagram, “Days of our Lives” star Tamara Braun announced that she has exited the role of Ava Vitali, with her last airdate set for Thursday, April 3.
The news surprised fans, particularly as she posted the update on April 1, better known as April Fool’s Day, a tradition in which untrue information is spread among individuals.
Despite the unusual timing, Braun noted she wasn’t joking in revealing her departure from the daytime drama series.
“I wish this was an April Fool’s Joke but it’s not. This is Ava’s last week on ‘DAYS,’” wrote Braun in the caption of her post, which included a compilation video of her and her co-stars over the years. “Last couple of days really. Sad but true. I’ve been gone since late July of last year but you can still catch Ava on your screens until April 3rd!”
As noted by Braun, she taped her final episodes in July of 2024, which aligns with the soap’s nine month tape-to-air schedule. “I miss being with my ‘DAYS’ pals. They are a really good group of caring individuals and being with them was a joy,” Braun continued. “Thanks for all the #love #kindness and #support during Ava’s latest Salem stint.”
While storyline details surrounding Braun’s exit were unavailable at press time, it’s noteworthy that the actress revealed her final airdate as April 3, considering the episode airing that day will see EJ DiMera (Dan Feuerriegel) shot by a mystery shooter.
While EJ is expected to survive, a story arc will kick off with Salem questioning who had done the deed and why. Could Ava be the one who shoots EJ and later skips town? You’ll just have to tune in to find out!
In response to Braun’s Instagram post, several of her now former castmates wished her the best, including Stacy Haiduk (Kristen), Emily O’Brien (Theresa/Gwen), Paul Telfer (Xander), Tina Huang (Melinda), Linsey Godfrey (Sarah), Eric Martsolf (Brady), Dan Feuerriegel, Galen Gering (Rafe), Kennedy Garcia (Felicity), Lucas Adams (ex-Tripp), Kate Mansi (ex-Abby; now Kristina Davis on “General Hospital”), Mike Manning (ex-Charlie; now Smitty on “Beyond the Gates”) and Robert Scott Wilson (Alex), among others.
“You were and are a beautiful light on and off the show. That wont change,” said Manning. “I adore you in every way possible. I’m so grateful to have you in my life. Let’s have another 3hr coffee soon!” commented Godfrey. “You truly are such a wonderful human being. Im deeply appreciative to have gotten to know you and your creative spirit and kind heart,” shared Huang.
“We love you and need Tam & Ava back!” responded O’Brien. “Love you my partner in crime! Love working with you! Simply the Best!!!!” noted Haiduk.
Braun made her daytime debut in 2001, taking over the role of Carly Corinthos on “General Hospital” following the exit of Sarah Joy Brown, who originated the role. She later returned to daytime in 2007, playing Ava Vitali on “Days of our Lives” before moving on to take on the role of Reese Williams on “All My Children” that same year. She returned to “Days of our Lives” in 2011, this time playing a recast Taylor Walker, Nicole’s younger sister.
After a brief run as Taylor, Braun exited the soap only to return for another stint as Ava from 2015-2016. By 2017, she returned to “General Hospital” to take on the newly created role of Kim Nero. After departing Port Charles in 2019, Braun won a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her portrayal in 2020. She previously won in the same category for her portrayal of Ava on “Days of our Lives” in 2009.
Check out Braun’s Instagram post below.
