Days of Our Lives Spoilers: RIP John Aniston – When is His Last Airdate as Victor Kiriakis?

The world of soap operas lost a legendary figure when Days of Our Lives star John Aniston passed away at the age of 89. His death on November 11, 2022, sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, especially among the devoted fans of the long-running daytime soap. As Days of Our Lives prepares to say goodbye to the beloved character Victor Kiriakis, fans are left wondering when his final appearance will air and how the show will handle his exit.

Jennifer Aniston’s Heartfelt Tribute to Her Father

The heartbreaking news of John Aniston’s passing was shared by his daughter, Hollywood actress Jennifer Aniston. On November 14, 2022, Jennifer took to Instagram to honor her father with a series of touching photos. In an emotional post, she lovingly referred to him as “sweet Papa,” and expressed the depth of her loss. Jennifer’s message captured the profound connection they shared, calling him one of the “most beautiful humans” she ever knew.

Her post concluded with a tender farewell: “Love you till the end of time.” The outpouring of love and condolences from fans and fellow celebrities reflected how deeply John Aniston’s life and career had touched those around him. Stars like Reese Witherspoon, Gal Gadot, and others shared their tributes, sending thoughts and prayers to Jennifer and her family.

John Aniston’s Legacy in Hollywood

Born John Anastasakis on the island of Crete, Greece, in 1933, Aniston’s early life was marked by his family’s emigration to the United States when he was just 10 years old. His family shortened their name to Aniston upon their arrival, setting the stage for his future in Hollywood. Before launching his career in entertainment, John served in the U.S. Navy, further demonstrating his dedication and discipline.

John Aniston’s acting journey began on stage, where he made his mark in Off-Broadway productions. His breakthrough in television came with appearances on soap operas such as Love of Life and Search for Tomorrow. However, it was his portrayal of Victor Kiriakis on Days of Our Lives that truly cemented his legacy.

Victor Kiriakis: A Complex Character Loved by Fans

Aniston first appeared on Days of Our Lives as the ruthless and cunning Victor Kiriakis in 1985. The character, much like Aniston himself, hailed from Greece. Victor was introduced as a mobster who ran a prostitution ring in the fictional town of Salem. Over the years, the character underwent numerous transformations, fluctuating between villainous schemes and moments of redemption.

Throughout his 37-year run on the show, Victor Kiriakis became one of the most iconic figures in daytime television. His tangled relationships, business dealings, and constant power plays kept fans hooked. Despite his villainous tendencies, there was always a sense of charm and complexity to the character, making Victor a fan favorite.

Personal Life and Achievements

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John Aniston’s personal life was marked by his two marriages. He was first married to actress Nancy Dow, with whom he had his daughter Jennifer. After their divorce, Aniston remarried actress Sherry Rooney, and the couple eventually moved to Los Angeles, where they built a life together.

In 2022, Aniston received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Daytime Emmy Awards, recognizing his decades-long contribution to the world of soap operas. Although he was unable to attend the event in person, Jennifer Aniston accepted the award on his behalf and delivered a heartfelt speech in his honor.

When Will Victor Kiriakis’ Final Episode Air?

With Days of Our Lives filming several months in advance, John Aniston’s last episode as Victor Kiriakis is expected to air sometime in the spring of 2023. The show is now faced with the difficult task of saying goodbye to a character who has been central to the series for nearly four decades.

Fans are left to speculate about how the writers will handle Victor’s exit from the show. Given the character’s history, there are numerous possibilities, ranging from a dramatic on-screen death to a more subtle send-off. Some fans wonder if the show will recast the role or if Victor Kiriakis will be written out of the storyline entirely.

How Will Days of Our Lives Honor Victor Kiriakis?

Victor Kiriakis was a character who commanded both respect and fear in Salem. His larger-than-life presence on the show will not be easy to replace, and fans are eager to see how the series will honor John Aniston’s portrayal of the character.

One possible option is for Days of Our Lives to kill off Victor Kiriakis in a dramatic storyline, mirroring the actor’s passing in real life. This would provide an opportunity for the show to pay tribute to Aniston’s legacy with an emotional farewell for the character. Another option is for the character to quietly retire, moving away from Salem to live out his final days in peace.

Regardless of the direction the writers choose, Victor’s absence will undoubtedly leave a void in Days of Our Lives that will be felt by fans and cast members alike.

Conclusion

As fans prepare to say goodbye to both John Aniston and his iconic character Victor Kiriakis, there is a sense of gratitude for the many years of entertainment he provided. His legacy in daytime television is one that will be remembered for years to come. While his last airdate remains uncertain, one thing is clear: John Aniston’s portrayal of Victor Kiriakis will forever be etched in the hearts of Days of Our Lives fans.