When beloved soap star Shawn Christian, known for his role as Dr. Daniel Jonas on Days of Our Lives, was written off the show in 2016, fans were left in shock. Daniel’s tragic death in a car accident shook the fanbase, and rumors began swirling about why Christian left the long-running soap. However, in 2017, Arianne Zucker—Christian’s real-life partner and former co-star—dropped a bombshell that changed everything.

She revealed the true reason behind his departure, a revelation that stunned the soap opera world.

The End of Dr. Daniel Jonas

When Dr. Daniel Jonas first appeared in Salem in 2008, fans quickly warmed to his character. Introduced by his godfather, Victor Kiriakis, Daniel played a vital role in many beloved storylines, including his numerous love interests such as Chelsea Brady, Jennifer Horton, and Kristen DiMera.