Every year, putting together our “best of the best” list is no small feat, especially when it comes to the recasts. But after some serious head-scratching (and maybe a little debate), we’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 recasts of the year, with a couple of honorary mentions thrown in for good measure.
This year’s performances had it all: heart-melting moments, gut-punch heartbreaks, and laughs so big we almost lost the remote to the couch abyss.
So, launch in and see which stars stole the scene. And hey, don’t hold back! Share your favorites in the comments; we’re ready to hear your picks (and maybe assess your taste just a little).
Honorary Mentions:
Guy Wilson – Lucky Spencer, GH
Top 5 Soap Recasts of 2024:
10. Michael Roark – Jeremy, DAYS
9. Lucas Adams – Noah, The Young and the Restless
8. Marissa Reyes – Ari, DAYS
7. Tyler Joseph Andrews – Theo, DAYS
6. Roger Howarth – Matt Clark, Y&R
5. Alice Halsey – Rachel, DAYS
4. Rachel Boyd – Sophia, DAYS
3. Billy Flynn – Cane Ashby, Y&R
When it was revealed that Billy Flynn was leaving Days of Our Lives as Chad DiMera after many years on the show, fans were no doubt sad, but also excited that he had landed a new soap home. Flynn made his debut as Cane Ashby (aka Aristotle Dumas) in June 2025.
Of course, like with many recasts, fans and critics alike wondered how he would handle stepping into a new role, especially after becoming so beloved on Days.
It was no small feat, but if anyone could win viewers over, it was Flynn—and win them over he did. His charm, talent, and presence quickly made the part his own. We’re intrigued to see where 2026 takes him in this role.
2. Keith D. Robinson – Ted, Beyond the Gates
Keith D. Robinson made history as the first recast for Beyond the Gates since the show’s premiere in February. Stepping into the role of Ted Richardson, previously played by Maurice Johnson, Robinson made his debut in May. Of course, Johnson, having originated the role since the show’s premiere, had become a fan favorite, so it’s no surprise that viewers were a little nervous when the role was recast.
But Robinson, who’s no stranger to the acting world, hit the ground running. Fans who were initially skeptical quickly warmed up to him. He brought his own energy, charm, and depth to Ted Richardson, making the character feel fresh while still honoring what fans loved about the role. Since his debut, Robinson has been doing an absolutely fantastic job, and it’s clear that Ted Richardson has found a worthy new home.
1. Rory Gibson – Michael Corinthos, GH
We must give a thunderous, standing-ovation kind of applause to all the fabulous contenders on this year’s list! This category was a tough one; there were simply too many good options. But our absolute favorite recast this year is none other than Rory Gibson, who stepped into the role of Michael Corinthos on General Hospital and made his debut in May 2025.
Gibson has barely been on screen for a year, but boy, did he come in swinging! Stepping into an established role is never easy, especially when the previous actor, Chad Duell, was beloved and fans were understandably sad to see him go. But Rory? In no time, he stole our hearts. He missed no beats. None.
Hunk? Check. Acting chops? Check. Chemistry magnet? Check.
Charm? Check.
He’s got it all, and GH never made a better decision than hiring Rory for the role. Now, we can’t even picture a better recast. We’re still fanning ourselves! Hats off to him for snatching the top honor this year and being named SON’s Top Recast of 2025.
Fun fact: Last year, Alexa Havins Bruening (Lulu, GH) and Cherie Jimenez (Gabi, DAYS) tied for the top picks in 2024.
(Photos: CBS/IMDB/Screenshots/ABC/JPI)
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