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Soap Star and Singer Al Calderon Departs ‘Days of Our Lives’ for Primetime Role on NBC’s ‘Brilliant Minds’
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Al Calderon, the multi-talented actor and singer celebrated for his role as Javi Hernandez on NBC’s “Days of Our Lives,” will be exiting the beloved soap opera as he steps into a new primetime role on the network’s acclaimed medical drama “Brilliant Minds” .
Calderon joined “Days of Our Lives” in February 2024, portraying Javi Hernandez, a character introduced as the cousin of established fan favorites Rafe and Gabi Hernandez . His authentic performance quickly resonated with viewers, bringing nuance and visibility to Latinx and LGBTQ+ identities in daytime drama. Calderon’s tenure on the show has been marked by storylines that explored family, love, and community, offering representation that reflects the diversity of modern audiences .
The news broke on July 29, 2025, that Calderon would join the second season of NBC’s “Brilliant Minds” as Nurse Scotty Silva, a new regular character . “Brilliant Minds,” created by Michael Grassi and inspired by the life and writings of neurologist Oliver Sacks, centers on diverse characters navigating complex cases in a bustling urban hospital. Season two is set to premiere on September 22, 2025 .
Calderon’s casting comes amid a wave of departures and recastings at “Days of Our Lives.” NBC representatives confirmed that Javi Hernandez will be recast rather than written off, ensuring the character’s ongoing presence in Salem . In a statement, a spokesperson for the show said, “We do not comment on the contract status of our actors, but fans should not worry, Javi is alive and well in Salem” . The decision to recast underscores the character’s importance to the show’s evolving narrative and ongoing commitment to inclusion.
Al Calderon’s move from daytime to primetime is significant for LGBTQ+ representation on screen. Though Calderon himself has not publicly detailed his own sexual orientation, his work has consistently intersected with queer narratives and communities, both in his acting roles and in his public advocacy . His new character on “Brilliant Minds” is expected to further the show’s dedication to inclusive storytelling, joining a cast known for its multidimensional portrayals of LGBTQ+ professionals and allies in medicine .
The creative team behind “Brilliant Minds,” including showrunner Michael Grassi, has a track record of championing diverse voices and challenging stereotypes in network television . Calderon will join newcomers Brian Altemus and John Clarence Stewart, adding to a roster that reflects the complexity of real-world hospital teams.
Before his acting success, Calderon first gained national attention as a contestant on “The X Factor USA,” where he showcased his vocal talent and charismatic stage presence . Since then, he has become a prominent figure in both the music and television industries, using his platform to highlight the importance of visibility and authentic storytelling for marginalized communities .
Fans of Calderon’s work are expressing excitement for his next chapter, with many pointing to his ability to bring depth and empathy to every character he portrays. As primetime television continues to evolve, Calderon’s presence on “Brilliant Minds” is poised to make a lasting impact, both for viewers seeking compelling drama and for those looking for authentic LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.
Calderon’s last appearance on “Days of Our Lives” is scheduled for May 2026, due to the show’s advanced production schedule . As the soap prepares to recast Javi Hernandez, Calderon’s legacy as an advocate for representation and as a talented performer remains secure.
His transition to “Brilliant Minds” exemplifies the growing opportunities for LGBTQ+ actors and allies in Hollywood. As more networks prioritize inclusive casting and nuanced storytelling, Calderon’s career serves as a model for how queer visibility can flourish across genres and formats. The LGBTQ+ community and its allies will be watching closely as Calderon brings new depth and dimension to the primetime landscape this fall.
