Salem is about to get a dose of classic chaos. Louise Sorel is returning to Days of Our Lives for another appearance as the unforgettable Vivian Alamain, with her latest scenes set to air during the week of January 26. The daytime legend’s return comes after nearly a year away from the canvas, with her last on-screen appearance airing last April.
Key Takeaways
- Louise Sorel returns as Vivian Alamain during the week of January 26 after nearly a year off-screen.
- Vivian is one of DAYS’ most iconic villains, debuting in 1992 with multiple returns since.
- The character is known for legendary storylines, including burying Carly alive and stealing Kate and Victor’s embryo.
Vivian Will be Back
Sorel first debuted as Vivian in 1992, quickly cementing the character as one of the most notorious villains in DAYS history. Her original run lasted until 2000, followed by multiple high-profile returns in 2009–11, 2017–18, and again in 2020, 2023, 2024, and 2025. Each comeback has delivered the same signature blend of camp, menace, and unforgettable storytelling that fans expect.
Outside of Salem, Sorel is also beloved for her iconic role as Augusta Lockridge on Santa Barbara, as well as for appearances across several other daytime dramas. In recent years, Days has temporarily recast Vivian with other daytime powerhouses, including One Life to Live legend Robin Strasser in 2019 and Another World icon Linda Dano in 2021—both Daytime Emmy-winning actresses. Still, for many viewers, Vivian Alamain is synonymous with Louise Sorel.
The character’s legacy is packed with infamous moments, including the shocking 1992 storyline in which Vivian buried Carly (Crystal Chappell) alive. Vivian’s schemes only escalated over time, most notably in 1995 when she gave birth to Philip (John-Paul Lavoisier) after stealing Kate (Lauren Koslow) and Victor’s (John Aniston) embryo and having it implanted in herself. With Sorel once again stepping back into Vivian’s shoes, fans can expect more drama—and more trouble—ahead.
