Since its first episode aired in 1965, the daytime soap opera Days of Our Lives has seen its fair share of actors joining and leaving the series. But it appears that a recently announced departure from the show will be a gain for another soap that’s currently on the air. Keep reading to learn more about how Billy Flynn is saying goodbye to his Days character for a new experience on The Young and the Restless.
Why Billy Flynn is leaving ‘Days of Our Lives’ after 10 years. On March 11, TVInsider.com broke the news that the Days of Our Lives actor would be leaving the long-time NBC soap opera and heading over to The Young and the Restless on CBS. The reason for his departure? After 10 years as Chad DiMera, Flynn seems eager to find out what else lies ahead in a new role and environment.
“I think with this character, I’ve done everything I can with it,” he told Variety. “I’m looking forward to doing something new. I’m about to start a new journey and tell another story. It really is just that simple.” Flynn also mentioned that the CBS soap moves a bit slower behind the scenes compared to ‘Days’ (which operates on a rapid shooting schedule). That more relaxed pace is another element that excites him, as he mentioned it allows for more time to get things done. The decision to leave appears to be nothing but amicable, however. In his interview with TV Insider, he shared that he was grateful for his years on the show and for the opportunity to tell such a great love story.
A look back at Billy Flynn’s time as Chad DiMera on ‘Days of Our Lives’, When Flynn joined the Days cast in 2014, he was new to daytime television. But the character of Chad DiMera was already well-known; he had become a key player from 2009 to 2013 when Casey Deidrick originated the role. Chad, the youngest surviving member in his generation of the DiMera family, is the ex-boyfriend of Mia McCormick, with whom he also shares a daughter. In later seasons, the character strikes up a romance with the upper-class Abigail Deveraux. The character’s transformation in recent years, along with his relationship with Abigail, turned Flynn into a fan favorite! Though he may be ready to move on to a new role, he’s hinted that the character that helped launch his soap opera career will always hold a dear place in his heart. “Things have all lined up with the character that made it [so] I put more of Billy into Chad than I probably would’ve otherwise,” he shared with Variety. “There were moments in it that became like a love letter to my own kind of life. It’s special in that way.” Billy Flynn’s role in ‘The Young and the Restless’
Unfortunately, no further information is known about who Flynn will be playing when he makes the move to the fictional Genoa City. But multiple outlets have reported that his debut on the soap opera will be taking place this spring! In the meantime, fans of the actor will still be able to enjoy his portrayal of Chad on Days of our Lives for quite some time. Because the show films so far in advance, Flynn’s final episode isn’t expected to air until early 2026.
Soap fans, brace yourselves. One of Salem’s most beloved faces, Billy Flynn, has officially closed the chapter on his iconic role as Chad DiMera in Days of Our Lives. After ten years of on-screen romance, drama, and DiMera-level power struggles, Flynn is switching zip codes and soap operas—he’s headed straight to The Young and the Restless. Yep, it’s happening. Let’s dive into what this means for Billy, both shows, and soap fans around the world.
Who Is Billy Flynn? A Brief Look Back
From Ordinary Beginnings to Soap Stardom
Billy Flynn wasn’t born a soap star. Like many actors, he hustled hard, paid his dues, and landed the role of a lifetime. When he stepped into the shoes of Chad DiMera in 2014, he wasn’t just playing a character—he was stepping into a legacy.
Becoming Chad DiMera
Chad wasn’t just another DiMera. With Flynn’s layered performance, he evolved into a fan favorite. His chemistry with Abigail (played by multiple actresses over the years, most notably Kate Mansi) gave fans an OTP (One True Pairing) to root for through thick and thin.
Why He Left ‘Days of Our Lives’
A Decade Is a Long Time in Soap Years
Think about it—ten years in daytime drama is like 50 years in real-time. The emotional wear and tear, the evolving storylines, the never-ending script memorization—it’s a marathon. Billy Flynn has often spoken about the toll and the triumph of portraying such a complex character.
Creative Growth and New Horizons
Actors crave growth. And while Days gave him fame, maybe it was time for a new challenge. Flynn’s decision wasn’t a quick one, but those close to him say he was itching to stretch his wings—and his range.
The Big Move to ‘The Young and the Restless’
A Rival Soap Scoops Up a Star
CBS’s The Young and the Restless didn’t hesitate. The moment Flynn’s exit was confirmed, rumors swirled about his next move—and Y&R wasted no time making it official.
Which Character Will He Play?
That’s the million-dollar question. CBS is keeping it under wraps, but sources hint at a brand-new character crafted specifically for Flynn—one that’s mysterious, powerful, and oozing charm. Sounds like he’s not straying too far from the DiMera blueprint.
What Fans Are Saying
A Mixed Bag of Emotions
From heartbreak to hope, fans are riding an emotional rollercoaster. Some can’t imagine Days without him. Others are stoked to see him bring his magic to Y&R.
Social Media Reacts
Twitter? Exploding. Reddit threads? Lit. Facebook fan groups? Divided. The consensus? People care—deeply. Flynn has left his mark, and now they’re curious, concerned, and ready for his next chapter.
What This Means for ‘Days of Our Lives’
A Void in Salem
Let’s be real—Chad was central. His storylines were often the backbone of major arcs. Without him, the writers have a giant hole to fill. Could a recast be coming? Maybe. But replacing Flynn won’t be easy.
New Focus, New Faces
Flynn’s departure might push Days to shift its focus, potentially highlighting new characters or promoting underused actors. Change is hard—but it can be good.
And for ‘The Young and the Restless’?
A Strategic Power Move
Bringing Flynn onboard is a bold, strategic decision. Not only does it draw Days viewers to CBS, but it also energizes longtime Y&R fans. It’s a crossover play with the potential to shake up ratings.
Possible Storyline Predictions
We’re thinking: corporate intrigue, forbidden romance, maybe even a dark past catching up with him. Y&R thrives on drama, and Flynn delivers it with polish.
The Business of Soap Operas in 2025
Star Power Still Matters
In an era where many shows are fading, soap operas still lean heavily on star loyalty. Billy Flynn’s transition shows that a well-placed casting decision can revive and re-energize an entire series.
Crossovers, Cameos, and Soap Superfans
Could this spark more actor swaps between soaps? Maybe even a crossover event? Imagine Chad showing up in Genoa City for one last plot twist. Fans would eat it up.
Behind the Scenes with Billy Flynn
Personal Reflections
Flynn’s goodbye was heartfelt. In a recent interview, he said, “This isn’t just a job—it’s a family. Leaving was hard, but it’s the right time.”
What He’s Looking Forward To
He’s excited to work with new cast members, explore fresh dynamics, and challenge himself. It’s not about erasing Chad—it’s about evolving as an actor.
The Legacy of Chad DiMera
A Role That Transformed a Career
Flynn didn’t just play Chad—he became him. His performance gave fans a character who was both vulnerable and strong, flawed and noble.
What He Leaves Behind
A decade’s worth of iconic moments. Weddings, funerals, betrayals, reconciliations. Flynn’s portrayal gave soap fans a reason to tune in every day.
Conclusion: A New Era Begins
Billy Flynn’s departure from Days of Our Lives and arrival at The Young and the Restless isn’t just a career move—it’s a moment in soap history. Fans will mourn the loss of Chad DiMera, no doubt. But they’ll also celebrate the rebirth of an actor who’s not afraid to take bold leaps and try new things. This is more than a casting change—it’s a story of transformation. And in the world of soaps, that’s the one thing we can always count on.
