Days of Our Lives has sparked wild speculation with hints about Stefano DiMera’s possible return. Even years after Joseph Mascolo’s passing in 2016, the character’s shadow looms large over Salem. Recent teasers suggest the Phoenix could once again rise, shaking the DiMera dynasty to its core.

Why Stefano’s Legacy Still Shapes Salem

Stefano DiMera remains the backbone of the DiMera empire. Without him, the family would never have achieved its notorious power and influence in Salem. EJ DiMera, portrayed by Dan Feuerriegel, recently reflected on his father’s enduring importance. He admitted that Stefano’s presence is always felt, even through something as symbolic as the painting that hangs in the mansion.

Feuerriegel explained that EJ often “talks” to the portrait, using it as a sounding board in character. To him, Stefano’s presence is not just nostalgia—it’s a vital part of the DiMera family’s ongoing identity. Without Stefano, he argued, the DiMeras would be “nothing.” That powerful statement proves just how deeply the patriarch’s influence continues to echo across the canvas.

Days of Our Lives: Could the Phoenix Rise Again?

The Peacock drama thrives on jaw-dropping twists, and Stefano’s history makes his name synonymous with resurrection. After all, Stefano himself was famously dubbed “the Phoenix” for his countless returns from apparent death. This makes it impossible for fans not to wonder: is another shocking comeback in store?

While Joseph Mascolo cannot reprise the role, the show has left doors open before. In past years, Stefano was brought back through unconventional storytelling devices, such as masks or alternate portrayals. Though divisive, those choices underscored how central he remains to the series. A new Stefano arc could ignite intense drama and reposition the DiMeras at the forefront once again.

How Stefano Shaped EJ’s Path

Feuerriegel also reflected on how being Stefano’s son molded EJ. Life wasn’t always easy growing up in the shadow of Salem’s most feared villain. Yet EJ fully embraces the family’s legacy, flaws and all. The actor noted that while Stefano’s dominance was sometimes difficult, it forged EJ into the man he is today.

Even if EJ isn’t universally loved in Salem, his power and ruthlessness can be traced directly back to Stefano’s influence. The DiMera name is both a gift and a burden, but EJ carries it with unwavering pride. That connection fuels speculation that any revival of Stefano—whether symbolic or literal—would profoundly impact EJ’s storyline.

If Days of Our Lives truly dares to bring Stefano back in some capacity, it would rock Salem to its foundations. A revival could challenge EJ’s leadership, create fresh rivalries within the family, and reignite old feuds. At the same time, it would honor Joseph Mascolo’s iconic legacy, reminding viewers why Stefano remains one of the greatest villains in daytime history.

For now, speculation runs high. Whether Stefano’s return happens physically, through flashbacks, or symbolically, the Phoenix continues to dominate conversations among fans and cast alike. And as EJ himself insists, Stefano’s legacy will never die. So you think Stefano’s character could be resurrected? We will know. Make sure you keep coming back to Soap Opera Daily for all the updates like such.