Days of our lives spoilers: Emily O’Brien’s tearful exit shakes Salem—what heartbreaking decision forces Teresa to leave? Find out the truth
In a heart-wrenching twist on Days of Our Lives, Emily O’Brien’s emotional return as Teresa Donovan has taken an unexpected and sorrowful turn. After briefly stepping back into her role, O’Brien is once again leaving the show. Her departure is tied to a devastating family crisis that forces Teresa to make an impossible choice—one that will change everything.
The emotional storyline reveals that Teresa’s mother, Kim, is battling leukemia once again. Despite having defeated the illness twice before, Kim’s cancer has returned aggressively, leaving the Donovan family reeling. Shane delivers the crushing news, explaining that while Kim is fighting with her usual fierce determination, the road ahead is uncertain and filled with challenges. This revelation shakes Teresa to her core, forcing her to confront the reality that her mother’s health must take priority.
Faced with this devastating news, Teresa makes the heart-wrenching decision to leave Salem. Torn between supporting her loved ones and fulfilling her family obligations, she chooses to return to Los Angeles to be by her mother’s side. Her choice symbolizes both a sacrifice and a temporary retreat from the chaos of her life in Salem.
Before her departure, Teresa shares the painful truth with Brady and Tate. Their emotional conversation is raw and filled with vulnerability as Teresa confides in them about her mother’s condition. As she prepares to leave, the goodbyes grow more difficult. Each farewell—especially with Brady—is filled with unspoken emotions and the lingering possibility of reconciliation in the future.
Emily O’Brien reflects on her character’s emotional exit, describing it as a farewell filled with love and sacrifice. While Teresa’s departure is a bittersweet moment for fans, it leaves the door open for her eventual return, promising new twists, reunions, and unfinished business in Salem.