Emily O’Brien makes a dramatic return to Days of Our Lives as Gwen Rizczech, bringing fresh energy and high-stakes drama. After heartbreak and betrayal, Gwen is back—wealthier, wiser, and ready for anything. With unfinished business and a bold new outlook, Salem better brace for the storm she’s about to unleash.

Gwen’s Past Still Haunts Her Heart
Gwen left Salem reeling from betrayal. Her marriage to Dimitri Von Leuschner ended in emotional ruins. While she initially pursued Dimitri for his money, she fell for him. But his heart belonged to Leo Stark. Feeling crushed, Gwen vanished with some of Dimitri’s fortune and never looked back.

Now, she returns with money in her purse but emptiness in her heart. Emily O’Brien shared that Gwen always sought love or someone to cling to. But now, without that need for financial survival, Gwen feels a new kind of void. She’s richer than ever but still painfully alone.
Days of Our Lives: A New Attitude for a Rewritten Woman
According to O’Brien, Gwen has evolved. She’s not just back to cause mischief—she’s transformed. Spending time with the elite reshaped her outlook. “She has knowledge and status now,” the actress said, explaining how the show’s writers have refined her. Gwen might not need money anymore, but she’s still chasing something deeper.

The actress hinted Gwen’s social circle will change, introducing her to new characters and fresh dynamics. It’s a chance to see a smarter, sharper Gwen who’s no longer the outsider. Her return could shake things up in unexpected ways.
Old Faces, New Chemistry
Despite a full year off-set, Emily felt instantly welcomed upon her return. She expressed joy at reuniting with her Daysfamily. One reunion in particular brought big laughs—Greg Rikaart, who plays Leo Stark. The two previously worked together on The Young and the Restless and have maintained on-screen chemistry ever since. Reuniting Gwen and Leo is bound to reignite past tensions, but maybe there’s more beneath the surface. Could friendship blossom again—or will old wounds resurface?
With money in the bank and a fresh outlook, Gwen’s journey may go in several directions. Will she seek revenge? Romance? Redemption? O’Brien teased that fans will see Gwen interacting with characters she hadn’t before, opening new doors—and maybe slamming a few shut.
One thing’s for sure—Gwen isn’t just a side character anymore. Her return was intentional, and her presence promises to add drama, secrets, and maybe even scandal to Salem’s landscape. Emily O’Brien’s return to Days of Our Lives as Gwen Rizczech offers a fresh chapter filled with wealth, wit, and unfinished business. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more Days of Our Lives previews and updates. Let us know what drama you want to see Gwen stir up next!