While his casting had long been rumored, actor Jacob Martinez will officially assume the role of Javi Hernandez on “Days of our Lives,” beginning with the Tuesday, June 30 episode of the Peacock-exclusive series. He replaces Al Calderon, who exited last year to join NBC’s primetime drama “Brilliant Minds” as a series regular for the show’s second season.
Shortly after it was announced that Calderon would exit the series, a spokesperson told Soap Opera Network, “We do not comment on the contract status of our actors, but fans should not worry, ‘Javi’ is alive and well in Salem.” Calderon’s final episodes as Javi Hernandez are slated to air in May 2026, with the character taking time away from Salem until the AKA Talent Agency and Impact Artists Group-repped Martinez plays out Javi’s return after the character departs following his breakup with Leo Stark (Greg Rikaart) and learning his father, Gabriel, had suffered a heart attack.=
A graduate of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), this marks Martinez’ first foray in daytime and his first major acting role. His other credits include the Erwin Ordoñez-directed short “Memory Swim” and the play “Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead.” He also starred in the New York-based Joe’s Pub at The Public Theater production of the musical “In Pieces: The Musical.”
Several cast members from “Days of our Lives” are already following Martinez on Instagram, including Calderon.
Deadline first reported Martinez’ casting as Javi.
