The Phoenix Has Left the Building

Warning: Major bummer alert! You know how Stefano's been in that drug-induced catatonic state (compliments of Marlena) on "Days of our Lives" for the past few months? Well, it seems that he's going to stay that way for the foreseeable future. "Stefano is still in a coma and that's where he will remain for now," a show spokesperson told Soap Opera Digest.

So, what's the big deal? Joseph Mascolo, who's played the role of Stefano DiMera for more than 25 years, has left the show a number of times. But the Phoenix always rises, bigger and badder than the time before. Right?

Maybe not. Unfortunately this time around, it wasn't Joe's choice to leave. The actor told Soap Opera Digest, "They called my agent and said they were not picking up my option." Does this mean the character of Stefano is gone for good?

It just doesn't seem possible! Joe's portrayal of the villainous DiMera partriarch has been an institution on the show for as long as we can remember. We always looked forward to watching him make the Bradys, Hortons, and all good residents of Salem squirm with his latest diabolical scheme, and -- because Joe's portrayal was always so eloquent and engaging -- we often found ourselves rooting for Stefano instead of the hero or heroine in jeopardy.

A Return from the Ashes?

Would Joe consider returning to play Stefano again sometime in the future? Only under the right circumstances. "They would have to come on bended knee," he told Soap Opera Digest.

For now, however, Joe's a free agent and the show's loss could be another soap's gain. We'd love to see him reprise his role as powerful shipping mogul Massimo Marone on "The Bold and the Beautiful," which he played from 2001 to 2006. Or perhaps he'll opt to create a character on an entirely new show. "Guiding Light," for example, could use a really good bad guy to shake things up right about now.

We definitely weren't surprised to hear the talented actor's phone has already started ringing -- and can't wait to see what new adventure Joe takes on next!

Can you imagine "Days of our Lives" without Stefano DiMera?