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Days of Our Lives actor Derek Yates has left a significant mark during his brief appearances on the iconic soap opera, and he is optimistic about the possibility of returning to the show in the future.
In a conversation with The U.S. Sun, Yates, who portrays Kerry Youmans, discussed how his latest stint on the series unfolded and hinted at a surprising potential for his character’s return.
Making his debut in 2024, Yates’s character became entangled in a love triangle with Leo Stark, played by Greg Rikaart, and Javi Hernandez, portrayed by Al Calderon. Initially intended as a brief role, Yates’s involvement expanded unexpectedly.
“I was scheduled for just two episodes initially,” Yates shared. “The storyline was focused on a romantic interest for a lead character. However, things changed, and I received a call six months later saying I’d be coming back!”
He added, “Now, I’m involved in a new love triangle, but my character has taken a darker turn. It’ll be interesting to see how it all concludes soon!”
While Yates’s current episodes are set to finish later this month, he remains hopeful for a return. “On my last day, the director mentioned, ‘Don’t count yourself out just yet.’ That’s all I can disclose for now,” he revealed.
Yates also proposed an intriguing idea for his character’s evolution. “With my new shorter haircut, it would be fun to come back in a different light. While they’re already doing a twin storyline, I might not play a twin, but I could return as a reformed version of my character,” he explained. “Imagine him seeking therapy and striving to be a better person, aiming for friendship with Leo. That twist could add a fresh dynamic.”
Having appeared in various other series, including The Upshaws, How I Met Your Father, and General Hospital, Yates praised the efficiency of the Days production team. He described the set as operating like a “well-oiled machine.”
“They move quickly and expect you to be ready,” he noted. “Actors rehearse briefly with their scene partners before only getting a singular take for filming, so there is little room for error. The emphasis is on delivering your best performance in that one shot.”
Looking towards the future, Yates mentioned that his acting schedule is currently flexible. He reflected on how the strikes affecting actors and writers in 2023 had repercussions on project approvals, making it challenging for many roles to materialize.
Expressing gratitude for his role in Days, he added, “With the New Year upon us, I hope that the exposure from Days will help propel me into new opportunities, and I look forward to appearing in more productions soon.”
Days of Our Lives, Weekdays, Peacock
Source
www.tvinsider.com