Who is coming back on 'Beyond the Gates'? CBS' soap opera promises major holiday drama ahead
CBS's decision to launch its first new soap opera in decades, 'Beyond the Gates', in February 2025, was anything but expected. Set against the backdrop of the affluent Fairmont Crest, the series places the powerful Dupree family at its center, where every member harbors a secret, creating the perfect recipe for classic drama. With a holiday-themed stretch of episodes airing from December 22 to December 26, all eyes are now on 'Beyond the Gates' as viewers wonder which character is set to exit and who will step into the spotlight next.
This week's episodes of 'Beyond the Gates' bring back several familiar faces, each tied to ongoing and emotionally charged storylines. Jacinte Blankenship reprises her role as Regina, whose return is expected to deepen the family drama surrounding June, with sibling tensions and unresolved conflicts coming to the surface. Jasmine Burke continues to play the character of June, with her storyline taking center stage once again as fans follow the fallout involving her children, Samantha and Tyrell, as per ComingSoon.net.
Also returning is Ernestine Johnson Morrison as Shanice Johnson, the outspoken supervising nurse at Garland Memorial Hospital, whose presence often adds both edge and insight to hospital-centered storylines. Alex Cheeks is back as Donnell McBride, picking up his ongoing investigation into his father's suspicious death and Joey Armstrong's possible involvement. Rounding out the returning cast are Maria Howell as Tracy and Bonita Brisker as Sharon, both closely linked through their shared history in the girl group 'The Articulettes.'
Talking about the characters leaving the show for this week, there are no planned cast exits from 'Beyond the Gates,' with all current characters expected to remain on screen. CBS also unveiled a promo for 'Beyond the Gates' Season 2, set to premiere on Friday, January 2, 2026, sparking buzz among fans.
The teaser includes a steamy scene featuring Ashley (Jen Jacob) alongside a mystery man, later confirmed to be daytime Emmy winner Jordi Vilasuso, marking his official return to daytime TV, as per Michael Fairman TV. Vilasuso has officially joined the show for season 2, though details about his character and debut date remain undisclosed. Notably, the show is using a familiar rollout strategy, similar to Greg Vaughan's casting, whose role and airdate were revealed only shortly before his Monday, December 8 debut.
