'Days of Our Lives' Spoilers, Casting News: James Scott Quits Soap Opera, Bids Fans Farewell
"Days of Our Lives" star James Scott announced that he is leaving the soap opera in order to take "personal time."
The British actor is a fan favorite on "Days" and portrayed EJ DiMera for the past eight years. However, in what could be a possible plot on the famed soap opera, Scott recently opened up about his visit to Peru where he smoked hallucinogenics and had an epiphany, resulting in his desire to pursue other goals.
"I spent six days in the jungles of Peru doing Ayahuasca with the shaman," the actor revealed to Showbiz 411. "It was the single most positive experience of my life."
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Ayahuasca is a psychedelic mix of various South American plants that is said to cure anything from depression to cancer. The drug is legal in Brazil, and Scott joins other celebrities such as Lindsay Lohan and Sting in taking it, according to Showbiz 411.
"It's very spiritual and interesting," Scott added. "This is a medicine that the people of South America have been using for years to have a relationship with a higher consciousness. It sounds wacky when you say it, but it was truly the most important thing I have ever done. I came back a very different person."
In a statement marking his departure from "Days," Scott thanked NBC and his cast mates "for graciously supporting me in my decision in leaving the show to take personal time."
"To the unbelievably loving fans, I can't begin to express my gratitude for your love and support over the years," the actor added, according to SoapOperaNetwork.com. "I will miss you immensely."
Scott's exit will inevitably shake up the story line on "Days" as his last appearance on the show was taped at the Burbank Studios on May 2. Fortunately, the filming schedule is five months ahead of the show's air date, so fans will not see the actor's departure until late fall.
"We are saddened but supportive of James Scott's decision to leave the show after eight years to take some personal time and pursue new projects," NBC and Corday Productions, which produces the series alongside Sony Pictures Television, said in a joint statement. "His contribution to the show has been tremendous and we wish him the best always."
