Days Of Our Lives cast axed after show goes on hiatus

Days Of Our Lives has reportedly terminated the contracts of its entire cast after the show went on an indefinite hiatus earlier this month.

The long-running American soap, which first aired in 1965, has experienced low ratings in recent years and is now the subject of cancellation rumours, according to .

Filming typically takes place eight months in advance, meaning fans can expect the troubled program to air until at least mid-2020.

Days' uncertain future

The publication also reported the cast's apparent release was done with finances in mind and they could return to set as early as March if all goes to plan.

"It's actually a shrewd - if cynical - business move," one insider said.

"If Days gets picked up, can offer the actors new contacts at a reduced rate and with a 'take-it-or-leave' it attitude. Worst case scenario, they lose half their cast. Best case scenario, everyone agrees to return at a lower salary."

However, despite the chatter, all is not lost for the network's last remaining soap, according to TVLine's source.

"All indications are that NBC would like to keep the show going," they said.

Conflicting reports

Additionally, Soap Opera Digest said the show is currently renegotiating a new contract with the network, and a source said "everyone is hopeful" a deal will be struck.

The magazine also noted the timing of the TVLine story was "curious" because the cast was "aware of the break and the hiatus for months" and "production will likely resume in early 2020 after the holidays."