It's been 13 years since Camila Banus (Gabi Hernandez) joined Days of our Lives. But now, the actress has decided that it's time for her to forge a new future outside of Salem.
In a newly published interview, Banus revealed that not only is she exiting DAYS, but she's already taped her final scenes.
"There's definitely been a lot of changes at DAYS the last couple of years, one being moving to Peacock. Although it's been wonderful and we've had a super great reception, for me, I felt like that was kind of like the initial start for changes happening in general," Banus told The Wrap. "And I kind of just saw that as a sign for me to start the next chapter in my life."
While Banus did not elaborate on whether those "changes" were taking place at DAYS, the actress did share that she and husband Marlon Aquino are trying to start a family. "[T]hat's another big factor in possibly just slowing down for a little bit," Banus explained.
It is worth noting that Banus made efforts to remain at DAYS, including changing her work schedule to potentially accommodate more time off.
"I was, honestly, open to renegotiating a certain type of shooting schedule where I would have a little bit more time off. But they didn't go for it," Banus shared. The actress also claimed that where "certain other factors" that DAYS execs weren't on board with, though she did not provide details.
This is not the first time that Camila Banus has "exited" Days of our Lives. In 2020, after the stunning announcement that the entire cast of Days of our Lives had been taken off contract, Banus declared that she needed to take a break from DAYS. She had planned to take part in pilot season, but COVID scrapped the traditional pilot season, and Banus opted to return to DAYS.
Banus made her Days of our Lives debut on October 4, 2010. In 2015, Banus received a Daytime Emmys nomination in the Outstanding Younger Actress category. She had previously appeared for about a year as Lola Montez on ABC's One Life to Live.
Banus filmed for the final time at DAYS on April 28. Thanks to DAYS' aggressive production schedule, the actress will continue to be seen on-screen through the spring, summer, and into the fall.
DAYS has not commented on Banus' exit or if there are plans to recast the role. Since it is so far down the line, the show has also not provided a final airdate at this time.
What are your thoughts on Camila Banus' decision to exit Days of our Lives? Should DAYS recast the role of Gabi Hernandez? We want to hear from you -- so drop your comments in the Comments section below, tweet about it on Twitter, share it on Facebook, or chat about it on our Message Boards.
