Newest Update!! Days of Our Lives Spoilers: Austin Reed Returns to DOOL – Patrick Muldoon Back in Studio

In a move that’s bound to delight longtime fans and ignite new storylines, Days of Our Lives is bringing back one of its most iconic characters—Austin Reed. The news is now official:

Patrick Muldoon has returned to the studio, signaling the long-awaited return of his beloved character to Salem. In true soap fashion, the announcement came with a cheeky twist.

Muldoon himself appeared in a playful Instagram video shared by the show’s official account, as well as on his personal social media. The clip showed the actor comically “confused”

about his whereabouts—until he dramatically put on sunglasses and declared, “Salem!” With that single word, he confirmed what fans had been hoping for: Austin Reed is back.

Patrick Muldoon Steps Back Into Austin’s Shoes

Although Muldoon didn’t explicitly say he was reprising Austin, the implications are clear. It’s been more than a decade since his last appearance on the show, and fans have been yearning for a return ever since. The role of Austin Reed has been portrayed by both Patrick Muldoon and Austin Peck over the years, but this time, it’s Muldoon stepping back into the role he originated in 1992.

In the video teaser, Muldoon ended with a simple but emotional message: “It feels good to be back.” And indeed, for many DOOL viewers, his return is like welcoming home an old friend.

A Character with a Complex Legacy

Austin Reed isn’t just another Salem heartthrob—he’s a legacy character whose past is deeply intertwined with some of the show’s most enduring families and iconic storylines. The son of Kate Roberts Brady (Lauren Koslow), Austin has been both lover and rival, hero and heartbreaker.

His on-again, off-again romance with Carrie Brady (Christie Clark) remains one of Days’ most celebrated love stories. Their enduring chemistry, tangled in classic soap complications like infidelity, mistaken identity, and family betrayal, kept fans riveted for years. Now, with Carrie recently appearing solo for John Black’s (Drake Hogestyn) funeral, questions have naturally arisen about Austin’s absence—and what it means for their future.

A Missed Funeral, A Graduation, and New Clues

While Carrie returned to Salem for John’s emotional farewell, she noted that Austin couldn’t attend because their son, Noah Reed, was graduating from high school. This minor plot point may not be as throwaway as it seems. In fact, it could be a significant clue pointing to what’s ahead.

With Salem’s current teen scene heating up—featuring the likes of Holly Jonas, Tate Black, and Sophia Choi—Noah Reed is primed to join the mix. Austin’s return could very well pave the way for his son’s introduction as a new core teen character. Could Noah become a rival or love interest for one of Salem’s blossoming young characters? All signs point to yes.

Family Ties That Bind—and Break

Kate Roberts Brady, Austin’s fiercely protective and sometimes manipulative mother, is currently embroiled in her own drama. If her past is any indication, there’s no shortage of secrets and schemes that could rope Austin back into the DiMera and Kiriakis feuds. A reunion between Kate and Austin could also bring long-buried tensions to the surface—especially if she’s up to something that threatens his moral compass.

Given Days’ history of mother-son dynamics being used to heighten drama (remember Sami and Will? Or EJ and Stefano?), it’s only a matter of time before Austin’s loyalty to his mother is put to the test.

What Could Bring Austin Back Now?

While the show hasn’t released details about Austin’s storyline yet, speculation is running wild. Here are a few possible directions the writers could take:

• Noah’s Salem Debut: As mentioned, Austin could arrive ahead of his son’s move to Salem, helping him settle into town or protect him from hidden dangers.
• Carrie’s Secrets?: Could there be trouble in paradise? Carrie and Austin’s marriage has weathered countless storms, but what if there’s a crack in the foundation? Could infidelity, long-distance strain, or even a new romantic interest be threatening their relationship?
• Corporate Intrigue: With Titan and DiMera Enterprises always in flux, Austin’s experience in finance and business could bring him back into Salem’s corporate wars. Might he join forces with someone like Chad DiMera or go head-to-head with EJ?
• Unresolved Past: With his long and complex history involving Sami Brady, Lucas Horton, and even Billie Reed, Austin’s return could reignite old flames or grudges. A single walk through Horton Town Square could open a Pandora’s box of emotional landmines.

Behind the Scenes: Muldoon’s Homecoming

Patrick Muldoon’s return to the studio is more than just a casting coup—it’s a sign that Days of Our Lives is leaning into nostalgia while weaving in fresh storylines. Muldoon, who first joined the show over 30 years ago, brings with him a legacy that fans deeply appreciate. His charisma and chemistry with legacy characters could easily elevate the current narrative arcs.

Although Days films months in advance, it’s only a matter of time before Muldoon’s episodes begin airing. That gives fans plenty of time to speculate and build excitement over how his character will re-enter the fray.

More Returns on the Horizon?

Austin Reed may not be the only familiar face making a comeback. The show has hinted that more comings and goings are on the horizon, suggesting that a wave of legacy characters may be returning to stir up the drama—and possibly resolve (or reignite) long-standing conflicts.

With Victor Kiriakis gone, John Black recently laid to rest, and Bo and Hope leaving Salem again, there’s a vacuum in town. Days seems poised to fill that emotional void with recognizable faces and the kind of epic drama only a multi-generational soap can deliver.

What This Means for the Future of DOOL

Patrick Muldoon’s return is not just a nod to the past—it’s a strategic move toward reinvigorating the show’s rich character tapestry. Austin Reed’s presence allows for intergenerational storytelling: he bridges the gap between the show’s original power players and the rising stars of Salem’s next chapter.

Whether he returns as a hero, a conflicted father, or a man on a mission, one thing is certain: Salem just got a whole lot more interesting.

Final Thoughts

As we await Austin’s grand re-entrance, the buzz around Patrick Muldoon’s return continues to build. Will Austin’s comeback bring closure, chaos—or something in between? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: Days of Our Lives just delivered one of the most exciting casting surprises of the year.