There have already been several fantastic returns to Days of Our Lives, but even more are expected into the new year.

While the events that bring these beloved characters back to Salem have been kept under wraps, their identities are well known and fans can’t wait. Most have unfinished business in Salem, or they have lost loves that need to be rekindled. Soap Hub asked whose return you’re most excited about, and over 4,000 voted.

A Welcomed Prisoner Release
The return of Eric Brady (Greg Vaughan) has 66% of you excited to welcome in 2017! After all, his exit from Salem was a huge disappointment. Now that he’s coming back, you can’t wait to see him reconnect with his family – and the ladies. Not bad for a former priest turned alcoholic. Jennifer (Melissa Reeves) is in dire need for something to happen to her, and Eric’s return could provide just the boost she needs to jump onto the front burner. He could also pose a threat to Deimos (Vincent Irizarry) in the race for Nicole’s (Arianne Zucker) heart, if their shared past means anything.

A Welcomed DiMera
Granted she’s only a DiMera by marriage, but Anna’s (Leann Hunley) expected return has 20% of you very excited. Sure, she was amazing with the late Tony DiMera but his portrayer (Thaao Penghlis) is still on the show as Andre – and you can’t wait to see sparks fly between these two masterful actors. It will also be interesting to see Anna interact with ex-husband Roman (Josh Taylor) and daughter Carrie (Christie Clark), who is also expected to return with Austin (Austin Peck).

Belle of the Ball
She hasn’t been gone long so that could be why Belle (Martha Madison) garnered just 14% of your votes. You know she never should have left in the first place and you’re excited to see Chad’s (Billy Flynn) right hand return. After all, her daughter Claire (Olivia Rose Keegan) has had a traumatic experience being kidnapped by the Terrible Trio. She needs to see her mom again, and hopefully Belle will set her straight about not listening to those in charge.

See what’s coming up next!