Billy Flynn was beloved as Chad DiMera, the Days of our Lives role he assumed from Casey Deidrick in 2014, and he definitively made it his own, transforming into a Salem power player. Having to replace Chad again in 2025 was a more difficult assignment for the show’s casting department, yet it appears they’ve landed a gem in Conner Floyd. The actor has quickly and firmly grabbed a hold of the DiMera scion’s reins after less than a week on the job.
Enter, Confidently
Perhaps it was Floyd’s previous experience as Chance Chancellor on The Young and the Restless that made his acclimation to Chad so seamless. From the second he emerged in Horton Square, he appeared totally comfortable in Chad’s shoes.
There was no awkwardness or self-consciousness. He was cool, calm, collected, and, above all, confident. His quick interaction with his onscreen kids, Thomas (Alexander Elijah Bond) and Charlotte (Autumn Gendron), was sweet and natural. He effortlessly slipped into dad mode.
Instant Chemistry
Seconds later, Floyd was faced with a bigger task. Would he be able to convey an instant spark and longing via a quick glance across the square at leading lady AnnaLynne McCord, who plays Cat? Remember, the couple, who’ve agreed to steer clear of one another romantically to appease young Thomas and Chad’s former in-laws, Jack (Matthew Ashford) and Jennifer (Melissa Reeves), still have deep, lingering feelings for each other.
Yet, with one simple look between the pair in their very first scene together, their mutual yearning was undeniable. There was an instant, palpable chemistry between Floyd and McCord that was readily apparent. As a viewer, you immediately knew that despite a recast, this forbidden relationship would continue to play out as one of the show’s most promising and intriguing.
Oh Brother
Finally, it was time for part three of Floyd’s DAYS debut challenge. Chad headed home to the DiMera mansion to face off with his big bad brother EJ (Dan Feuerriegel). That was where the actor really surpassed expectations.
Floyd went toe-to-toe with the consummate Feuerriegel, as the two siblings fell into their long-standing combative relationship. His Chad powerfully confronted EJ about his role in Stephanie’s (Abigail Klein) kidnapping; then, he grilled his brother about whether or not his late wife, Abigail, was the woman in the mysterious pod. Floyd was bold, fearless, and audacious, proving that he could totally hold his own against Feuerriegel.
The Verdict
In a matter of a couple of episodes and a handful of scenes, Floyd proved he has what it takes to handle the complexities of Chad DiMera and deserves an A for his performance. He’s filled the void left by Flynn in record time and can now forge forward with making the role his own.
