Days of Our Lives Stars Who Deserved Daytime Emmy Recognition

The 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy nominations were announced on July 9 and 10, and as always, there were actors who didn’t land nominations who should have. Susan Seaforth Hayes addressed her lack of a nomination in an Instagram post. Find out why these other four actors from Days of Our Lives should have been nominated.

Carson Boatman and Raven Bowens

In 2024, Johnny (Boatman) and Chanel (Bowens) faced a heartbreaking miscarriage that deeply impacted their relationship. Chanel’s high-risk pregnancy, caused by accidental radiation exposure, ended tragically. The couple experienced immediate shock and overwhelming grief. Johnny stood by Chanel’s side, offering emotional support despite his own pain. Both wrestled with guilt—Chanel blamed herself for the complications, while Johnny struggled with helplessness. This devastating loss became a major turning point in their marriage, creating emotional distance and trust issues.

Later in the year, Johnny betrayed Chanel by having a one-night stand with Joy (AlexAnn Hopkins), a fellow actress on the Body & Soul set. Believing Chanel was involved with Alex (Robert Scott Wilson), Johnny acted on impulse and regret. He first confided in EJ (Dan Feuerriegel), asking him to keep the secret, then later admitted the truth to Abe (James Reynolds), Chanel’s father. The emotional confession underscored the weight of his actions. Chanel learned the truth at a New Year’s Eve party—though those scenes aired in early 2025 and are not eligible for Emmy consideration.

Chanel’s devastation over losing the baby gave Bowens an opportunity to portray a wide emotional range—from a grieving mother filled with self-blame to a heartbroken wife trying to empathize with her husband’s pain. Boatman has been a standout on DAYS since joining the cast in 2021, consistently turning in compelling performances. As the son of two iconic characters, Sami and EJ, and a product of two of Salem’s core families, The Bradys and The DiMeras, it was clear from the start that Johnny would be a central figure. Carson has more than risen to the occasion.

Dan Feuerriegel

The actor delivered some of his strongest performances as EJ throughout 2024 on DAYS. His portrayal during the intense legal and family confrontations—especially scenes involving the secret paternity test cover-up with Sloan (Jessica Serfaty) and the explosive fallout with his son Johnny—showcased his ability to convey complex emotions like guilt, determination, and vulnerability. Feuerriegel’s nuanced acting during confrontations with Nicole (Arianne Zucker), Paulina (Jackée Harry), and Abe highlighted EJ’s internal struggles between loyalty and ambition. These standout moments proved why Feuerriegel’s portrayal remains a fan favorite, bringing depth and intensity to one of Salem’s most powerful characters. His chances of a nomination in 2026 are pretty much on lock given the Who Shot EJ storyline and fallout which is still airing.

Robert Scott Wilson

In July 2024, DAYS viewers witnessed the dramatic aborted wedding of Alex and Theresa (Emily O’Brien), a pivotal moment that shook the Kiriakis family and left fans on the edge of their seats. The double wedding ceremony, which also featured Xander (Paul Telfer) and Sarah (Linsey Godfrey), was abruptly derailed when Fiona (Serena Scott Thomas) dropped a bombshell revelation—Alex was not Victor’s (the late John Aniston) biological son, Xander was. This stunning twist led to the annulment of Alex and Theresa’s marriage, sparking intense emotional fallout and complex family dynamics. Throughout this gripping storyline, Wilson, who portrays Alex, delivered some of his strongest performances to date. Wilson masterfully captured Alex’s shock, heartbreak, and determination to fight for his place within the family. His ability to convey vulnerability alongside resilience added depth to the character, making the turmoil feel authentic and compelling. Wilson’s nuanced acting, particularly in scenes where Alex confronted betrayal, struggled with his identity, and faced the collapse of his relationship with Theresa, made him a strong contender for the Emmy.

The Daytime Emmys will take place in Los Angeles on Friday, October 17th.