36 Years Ago Today, This ‘Days of Our Lives' Legend Made His Unforgettable Return
On April 17, 1990, Days of Our Lives welcomed back fan-favorite character Bo Brady as portrayed by Peter Reckell, in a highly anticipated return that was heavily promoted at the time.
Reckel first joined the soap opera in 1983 as Bo Brady, a former merchant marine. Through his relationship with Kristian Alfonos's Hope Brady, the pair quickly became one of the show's most popular couples, achieving ‘super couple' status. In 1986, after the birth of their son Shawn Douglas, Bo and Hope left Salem to sail the world abord their boat, the Fancy Face, named after Bo's nickname for Hope.
Four years later, Reckell returned full-time. His comeback was heavily promoted, including a memorable teaser featuring Bo riding a motorcycle set to Holding out for a Hero by Bonnie Tyler. "Can Hope be far behind?" the promo teased.
In the storyline, Bo return was tied to the kidnapping of Stephanie Johnson, his best friend Steve Johnson (Stephen Nichols) and his sister Kayla Brady (Mary Beth Evans) daughter.
AS the storyline unfolded, Alfonoso briefly returned, playing a key role in the fan-favorite Cruise of Deception story arc, which saw several Salem residents trapped on a dangerous voyage. The storyline ended with Hope being presumed dead after being a locked in a cage that exploded above a vat of acid alongside villain Ernesto Toscano.
Following Hope's presumed death, Bo moved forward and found love again with Carly Manning (Crystal Chappell), a pairing that also resonated with viewers.
The couple's story included an on-location wedding in Mexico, a hallmark of the show's storytelling during that era.
However, three years later, at the end of his contract, Reckell exited the soap again, with the role of Bo recast with Robert Kelker-Kelly.
Reckell returned again in 1995, reuniting with Alfonso, who had been portraying the mysterious ‘Gina.' In a fan-favorite reveal, it was ultimately confirmed that Gina was actually Hope. The truth came to light during an emotional scene in which Bo read a letter Hope had written, only for her to finish it aloud, confirming her identity.
Reckell remained with the series until 2010, later returning in 2015 for the show's 50th anniversary. In that storyline, Bo appeared to die in Hope's arm following a quick battle with a brain tumor.
Reckell's most recently returned in 2025 as part of a dramatic storyline in which Bo had been in a coma after being shot by his son, Shawn Douglas (Brandon Beemer), during an attempt to protect Hope. The story saw Bo develop sepsis before ultimately receiving a cure. His recovery came at a cost, however, as his close friend, and former brother, John Black (Drake Hogestyn) died. Bo eventually awakened and reunited with his family before leaving Salem once again.
Reckell has expressed interest in returning to the series in the future, though no additional appearances have been confirmed.
What was your favorite Bo Brady memory? Share them in the comments below.
Days of Our Lives streams weekdays on Peacock.
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This story was originally published April 19, 2026 at 7:56 AM.