Al Calderon Reveals the Impact Days of Our Lives Had on Him

Days of Our Lives' Al Calderon opened up about how much he loves his job and the people who work there.

Although Leo and Javi got off to a rocky start, they’ve finally made it through and become an item on Days of Our Lives. Javi has also found his footing in Salem, getting involved in several lives, including Jada’s, who is going through a tough time. Cherie Jimenez, who plays Javi’s cousin Gabi, explained that having Al Calderon’s Javi on the canvas has helped bring out another side of Gabi. Similarly, Calderon feels that the show has influenced him in the real world in a good way.

They’re One Big Family

Calderon sat down with Soap Opera Digest recently to discuss all things Javi. The character is cousin to siblings Rafe (Galen Gering) and Gabi, and he had nothing but praise for his scene partners. And they’re partners in the truest sense of the word. Calderon noted that the two are incredibly supportive and nurturing to him. “Their openness, their willingness to play and have fun in scenes together,” he began. “It created this real, historic family feel.”

His praise continued, saying that it was up to the three actors to bring their connection as cousins to life. It was a connection that partly had to be established off-screen. “I’m just lucky to work with two incredibly talented humans and get to call them my family,” he remarked

He’s Very Gracious

Calderon also admitted, “Whether they know it or not, my DAYS family has had a huge impact on me.” He expressed his gratitude for people like Karen Dahl and Corina Duran-Rabichuk who are from the hair and makeup department – which Calderon refers to as his “personal therapists” – and other staff members whom he only sees in passing. “Everyone has shown me so much kindness. This year has been a wild ride, and I’m forever grateful,” he stated

He also praised the fans for accepting him as a newcomer on the show. He finds them to be often funny, creative, as well as supremely loyal. And for Calderon, it doesn’t matter if the fans adore Javi or can’t stand him, stating, “Whether they love Javi or not, I’m just thankful to be here.”