Greg Vaughan’s ‘Days of Our Lives’ Exit: Unpacking His Iconic Role, Illustrious Career, and Future Horizons
After eight transformative years portraying the beloved Eric Brady on NBC’s iconic soap opera, Days of Our Lives, actor Greg Vaughan announced his departure, marking the end of a significant chapter in the show’s long-running history. Vaughan’s announcement, made during a candid interview, sent ripples through the dedicated fanbase, prompting discussions about his legacy on the show and his exciting ventures ahead. His tenure saw the character of Eric Brady evolve through dramatic and often controversial storylines, solidifying Vaughan’s status as a Daytime Emmy winner and a household name.
On July 22, during an appearance on the That’s Awesome with Steve Burton & Bradford Anderson podcast, the 47-year-old actor shared his decision to step away from the role, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of the moment. While expressing immense gratitude and love for his fans, Vaughan conveyed a sense that his time on the venerable soap opera had naturally reached its conclusion. This pivotal moment prompts a deeper look into the actor’s illustrious career, his impact on Days of Our Lives, and the promising path that lies before him.
An Eight-Year Reign as Eric Brady on Days of Our Lives
Greg Vaughan first joined the cast of Days of Our Lives in 2012, stepping into the shoes of Eric Brady, a character previously brought to life by Supernatural‘s Jensen Ackles. From the moment Vaughan took over, he infused the character with a renewed depth and intensity, guiding Eric through a remarkably complex and often tumultuous journey. When Greg assumed the role, Eric Brady had transitioned from a former photographer in the Congo to a man of faith, serving as a priest.
However, the tranquil life of a man of God was soon disrupted by irresistible temptations and profound emotional conflicts. Eric’s most defining storyline, and arguably one of the show’s most talked-about arcs during Vaughan’s tenure, involved his torrid and forbidden love affair with church secretary Nicole Walker. Their passionate connection challenged Eric’s vows and faith, creating a captivating dynamic that kept viewers glued to their screens. The evolution of Eric from a devout priest to a man wrestling with his heart’s desires showcased Vaughan’s considerable acting range and his ability to portray nuanced emotional turmoil.
Beyond his relationship with Nicole, Eric Brady’s storylines under Vaughan’s portrayal were consistently packed with drama, redemption, and heartbreak. He became a central figure in Salem, involved in numerous high-stakes plots, family sagas, and personal crises. This dedicated portrayal did not go unnoticed by critics and peers. In recognition of his exceptional performance and contribution to the show, Greg Vaughan was honored with the prestigious Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 2018, a testament to his impactful work and the profound connection he forged with the audience.
Is It a Farewell or Just a Break? Vaughan’s Thoughts on His Departure
While the announcement of Greg Vaughan’s departure from Days of Our Lives initially sounded definitive, the actor offered a glimmer of hope for fans during his podcast interview, suggesting that his exit might not be a permanent farewell but rather a temporary break. This ambiguity is not entirely new to the landscape of daytime television, where beloved characters often return after periods of absence, sometimes even portrayed by different actors.
Vaughan’s decision comes amidst a backdrop of previous uncertainty surrounding the future of Days of Our Lives. In November 2019, reports surfaced that the entire cast ofDays of Our Lives had been released from their contracts, fueling speculation that the long-running serial might be heading for an “indefinite hiatus.” This news sent shockwaves through the soap opera community, highlighting the precarious nature of even the most established shows. While the show ultimately received a renewal for its 56th season, the period of uncertainty undoubtedly influenced many actors’ decisions regarding their future commitments.
Reflecting on this period and his personal decision, Vaughan shared his thoughts with his fanbase: “For all my Days fans that are listening, I love you all… it’s never over, so I’m not gonna say it’s over. I’m taking a break, if you will.” He elaborated on the context, explaining, “Days was going through a renewal negotiation and not knowing where they were going to go. I just felt my time was coming to an end anyways.” This perspective suggests that his departure was a confluence of personal timing and professional circumstances, rather than a sudden decision. The door, it seems, remains open for a potential return to Salem someday, a possibility that will undoubtedly keep fans hopeful for the future.
Personal Life: Engaged to Actress Angie Harmon and a Blended Family
Beyond his on-screen dramas, Greg Vaughan’s personal life has also seen significant joyous developments. He is happily engaged to renowned actress Angie Harmon, known for her roles in Rizzoli & Isles and Law & Order. The couple, both 47, announced their engagement in December 2019, following a romantic holiday vacation where Vaughan popped the question. Their engagement was celebrated by fans and fellow celebrities, marking a beautiful new chapter for both actors.
This upcoming marriage will be the second for both Greg and Angie, and they’ve embraced the creation of a loving blended family. Greg Vaughan was previously married to Dutch model and actress Touriya Haoud. They share three sons, Jathan, Cavan, and Landan, and their co-parenting relationship has remained amicable since their split in 2014. Similarly, Angie Harmon was formerly married to NFL star Jason Sehorn, with whom she shares three daughters: Finley, Avery, and Emery. The couple’s divorce also occurred in 2014. Together, Greg and Angie navigate the joys and challenges of raising a large, blended family, often sharing glimpses of their heartwarming family life on social media, showcasing their commitment to each other and their children. During his earlier career, Greg also briefly dated Alyssa Milano while starring alongside her on the second season of the hit supernatural series Charmed, further highlighting his connections within the entertainment industry.
Beyond Salem: Calvin on Queen Sugar
While his presence on Days of Our Lives will be deeply missed by many, fans of Greg Vaughan need not worry about his visibility on television screens. The versatile actor has another prominent role that keeps him busy: Calvin on OWN’s critically acclaimed drama series, Queen Sugar. This role offers a stark contrast to his daytime soap persona and showcases his ability to tackle complex, socially relevant narratives.
On Queen Sugar, Greg Vaughan portrays Calvin, a police officer entangled in an unconventional and often challenging relationship with Nova Bordelon, a passionate Black Lives Matter protestor and journalist. This storyline delves into sensitive themes of racial injustice, societal divides, and the complexities of love across ideological lines. Vaughan has appeared in 18 episodes of the OWN series, delivering a nuanced performance that has earned him praise. His portrayal of Calvin allows him to explore the moral ambiguities and personal sacrifices inherent in such a relationship, contributing to the show’s powerful storytelling and its commitment to addressing contemporary social issues. His continued work on Queen Sugar ensures that viewers will still be able to enjoy his talent in a primetime setting, highlighting his diverse acting capabilities.
From High Fashion Runways to Hollywood: Greg Vaughan’s Modeling Roots
Before captivating audiences on daytime television and primetime dramas, Greg Vaughan’s journey into the spotlight began much earlier, in the world of high fashion. He embarked on his modeling career at the tender age of 16. His striking looks and natural charisma quickly propelled him into the international modeling scene. After graduating from high school, Vaughan made the significant move to Milan, Italy, a global hub for fashion, where he modeled for one of the industry’s most revered designers, Giorgio Armani.
His success in Milan was just the beginning. Vaughan went on to work with an impressive roster of famous designers and iconic brands, solidifying his status as a sought-after model. His portfolio includes campaigns and runway appearances for fashion titans such as Gianni Versace, known for his bold and opulent designs; Tommy Hilfiger, a purveyor of classic American cool; the casual elegance of Banana Republic; and the timeless sophistication of Ralph Lauren. This early career phase provided him with invaluable exposure to the world of entertainment and honed his ability to perform under pressure and connect with an audience, albeit through a different medium.
However, after a successful run in the modeling industry, Vaughan eventually felt a calling to explore his creative talents further. He tired of the transient nature of modeling and set his sights on a new challenge: acting. With ambition and determination, he relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a career on screen. His dedication quickly bore fruit, as he landed his very first acting role on the globally popular series Baywatch in 1996, marking the official transition from supermodel to burgeoning actor. This pivotal role launched his career, paving the way for his future successes in daytime and primetime television, ultimately leading him to his iconic role as Eric Brady and beyond.
Looking Ahead: The End of an Era, The Beginning of New Adventures
Greg Vaughan’s departure from Days of Our Lives signifies more than just an actor leaving a show; it marks the conclusion of a significant era for fans who have followed Eric Brady’s journey for eight years. His portrayal brought depth, passion, and an undeniable charisma to a character steeped in both faith and human frailty. From his Daytime Emmy win to his enduring on-screen chemistry, Vaughan left an indelible mark on the soap opera landscape.
As he embarks on new adventures, both professionally with projects like Queen Sugar and personally with his engagement to Angie Harmon, Greg Vaughan exemplifies the dynamic nature of a career in entertainment. His journey from an international model to a celebrated actor across multiple genres speaks volumes about his talent and versatility. While the doors of Salem may temporarily close for Eric Brady, Greg Vaughan’s career is clearly flourishing, promising many more captivating performances and exciting developments for his loyal fanbase in the years to come.