Now that Gabi is aware that Stefan slept with Ava, all heck is breaking loose on Days of Our Lives. Her portrayer, Cherie Jimenez, certainly has big shoes to fill, as Camila Banus previously set the bar high for the flighty yet crafty schemer. But Jimenez had luck and destiny on her side, which she said helped her nab the role.
Fortune Smiled on Her
In a recent interview with Soap Opera Digest, Jimenez discussed the long road it took for her to nab the part of Gabi on DAYS, which she had previously auditioned for in 2009. Now, a decade and a half later, she’s arrived and is making the part of Gabi her own. Determined to give this latest audition her all, she met with co-executive producer Janet Spellman-Drucker, her future castmate Brandon Barash, who plays Stefan, and producer Noel Maxam.
She explained the experience, “It was amazing because with Brandon, it felt like we’d known each other forever. It felt like we’d been acting together forever. I felt incredibly comfortable from the beginning.” Their onscreen chemistry is so good that it’s like Gabi never left Salem.
Jimenez knew that Fate played a part in her getting the role because she spied a phoenix statue on the set and was blown away when she learned that the mythical creature was also the symbol for the DiMera family. Phoenix also happens to be her son’s first name, so she knew something about the audition would be different this time, and the universe would guide her to a good path. (Find out why the phoenix is so important to the DiMeras!)
Getting the Part Was a Blessing
After realizing the amazing coincidence between her son and the show, Jimenez stated, “I took a deep breath, and we did the screen test. I walked away feeling amazing.” Mere days later, she was told that the part was hers, so she and her entire clan packed things up and headed for Los Angeles. She firmly believes that she was meant to take on the role this time around and marvels at the luck involved.
“I believe that coincidences are God’s way of showing you the way and showing you that you’re on the right path,” she confidently explained, adding that even if she didn’t get the part, the signs were a portent of good fortune to come. After officially getting the part, Jimenez was completely beside herself. She exclaimed, “This is truly a dream role, and I have loved every single second of it. I’m so excited for everyone to see my interpretation of Gabi.”
We’re enjoying Jimenez’ take on the character and are excited to see what happens next!
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