Days of our Lives Casting Surprise! Conner Floyd Is The New Chad
Days of Our Lives has a new Chad DiMera! Conner Floyd, who is still airing as Chance on The Young and the Restless, begins filming as Chad on June 23rd, according to Deadline. Billy Flynn, the current Chad, just started airing on Y&R as Cane Ashby on June 19th, after it was discovered that his original character, Aristotle Dumas, was actually Cane.
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Because DAYS films so far in advance, Flynn will air on Y&R and Days simultaneously until early 2026. Floyd will start airing as Chad in April 2026.
Flynn Weighs In
Flynn recently spoke to TV Insider about taking over the role. When Billy Flynn first sat down with Y&R head writer and executive producer Josh Griffith, he had no idea he was being considered for the role of Cane Ashby. It wasn’t until later that the opportunity was laid out—and once it was, Flynn dove in headfirst.
He began studying the character’s history, revisiting past episodes, and focusing particularly on Cane’s longtime romance with Lily, played by Christel Khalil. Although his version of Cane will bring notable differences—such as a change in accent and age dynamic—Flynn emphasized that the emotional anchor of the character remains the same.
“There was a chemistry that I was like, ‘Okay, it’s gonna be good,’” Flynn recalled, describing his immediate connection with Khalil during their first scene together.
He’s confident that the deep bond between Cane and Lily will still be the emotional centerpiece, no matter how the character evolves.
“Lily is Cane’s one true love,” he said. “I know how to do that.”
Flynn is no stranger to taking on roles with rich histories, and while he acknowledges the work done by original portrayer Daniel Goddard, he’s not looking to mimic what came before. Instead, he sees this as a chance to offer a new, fully realized interpretation of Cane.
“We’re going to rebrand it a bit,” he explained, noting that his portrayal would be distinct yet rooted in the heart of who Cane is.
As Cane makes his dramatic return to Genoa City, fans can expect a refreshed take on the character—one that promises to stay true to the essence of Cane, while pushing him into uncharted territory. Flynn’s approach might be different, but the legacy of the character—and especially the love story at its center—remains firmly intact.
Casey Deidrick originated the role of Chad in 2009. Flynn stepped into the role in 2014. Chad began a popular romance with Abigail Deveraux.
