Days of our Lives fans got a surprise when Susan Banks reappeared in Salem this week — and was pretty much the spitting image of her former self, despite being played by a different actress.
There is plenty of history behind Susan Banks and her connections to Salem and the DiMeras. The character, along with Kristen DiMera, was originated by Eileen Davidson. That was back in 1996, and since then a lot has changed.
Eileen Davidson held the role of Banks/DiMera from 1996 to 1998. She also returned to Days of our Lives in 2014 and remained in Salem until 2017.
In between Davidson’s stints, Brynn Thayer did a single appearance as Susan Banks in 2011. Eileen was not available at the time and the show needed someone for a single episode.
Now that Susan Banks has returned to Salem, she is played by an entirely new actress. Stacy Haiduk stepped into the role on Days of our Lives this week. It is unclear how long she will stick around, but it is a likely bet it will be long enough to stir up some trouble.
Fans may recognize her from roles she held on All My Children, The Young and the Restless, and Days of our Lives for a few previous episodes. Stacy Haiduk has several acting credits, and given her experience she should easily be able to hold down the duties required to play Susan Banks!
We’re also set to see her as Kristen later this week. And we all know we’re looking forward to that!
Days of our Lives airs weekdays on NBC.
