EXCLUSIVE: Deadline has learned that *Days of Our Lives* has big plans for newly-cast actress Sydney Malakeh. She’ll be playing the only daughter of Sami (Alison Sweeney) and EJ (Dan Feuerriegel).
Days Of Our Lives has officially announced that Sydney Malakeh will join the cast as Sydney DiMera, the daughter of central characters Sami Brady and EJ DiMera. This significant casting news, reported by Deadline on September 2, 2026, reveals that Malakeh's character was last seen as a pre-teen in the 2021 Peacock movie Days Of Our Lives: A Very Salem Christmas. Fans can expect her debut in Salem on September 9, 2026.
Malakeh arrives with notable acting credentials, having appeared in popular series like Grey's Anatomy, Shrinking, Loot, and The Sex Lives of College Girls. Her role will be pivotal, reflecting ongoing family dynamics and conflicts that are central to the narrative of Days Of Our Lives. The introduction of Sydney DiMera represents not just a new character but a new chapter in the ongoing saga of the DiMera family, as the show aims to deepen its exploration of themes surrounding family relationships and individual motivations.
In a concurrent development, Franco LoPresti, recognized for his work in Heated Rivalry, will also enter the world of Days Of Our Lives playing the character Dante. Set to debut in Salem on September 14, 2026, Dante’s connections to Sami suggest potential plot twists that might affect the existing relationships within the series. LoPresti has an impressive background, having been part of projects like Tracker and Chucky, which adds an extra layer of intrigue regarding his character’s role in the unfolding drama.
The addition of Sydney Malakeh and Franco LoPresti indicates a fresh wave of talent gracing the show, highlighting its commitment to evolve and captivate audiences. Their casting follows that of Brandon Butler, who began as Mason Whitfield on September 1, 2026. Days Of Our Lives, produced by Corday Productions Inc. in collaboration with Sony Pictures Television, has maintained its ability to draw in both new and long-time viewers through dynamic storytelling and character development.
As a long-standing series, Days Of Our Lives has a rich history centered around families like the Hortons, Bradys, DiMeras, Kiriakis, and Hernandez. The show continues to air on Peacock, making it available globally. Known for its ability to adapt through casting changes, the introduction of new characters like Sydney and Dante may stir considerable viewer interest and discussions, driving the narrative into new territories.
The casting of Sydney Malakeh and Franco LoPresti is a significant development for Days Of Our Lives, signaling ongoing changes and the possibility of renewed story arcs involving established characters. These updates not only aim to invigorate current fans while attracting new viewers but also promise to explore complex familial dynamics and relationships that will resonate with a broad audience.
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