TL;DR
- Jacob Martinez takes over the role of Javi on Days of Our Lives.
- He shares his journey of coming out and finding acceptance.
- Martinez emphasizes the importance of LGBTQ representation.
- The character Javi returns with new drama this summer.
- Catch his debut episode on June 30.
Hold onto your hats, soap opera fans! The iconic role of Javi Hernández on Days of Our Lives is getting a fabulous makeover as Jacob Martinez steps into the spotlight. This Nebraska native is not just taking over a character; he’s stepping into a legacy that has long championed LGBTQ representation on daytime television. Martinez, who is openly gay, is ready to bring his own flair to the character, and fans are buzzing with excitement about what’s to come.
In an Instagram reveal that had fans swooning, Martinez announced, “Hey, I’m Jacob Martinez and I’m taking over the role of Javi Hernández on Days of Our Lives and I’ll be popping up on your screens June 30th. So, I hope we all have a really, really fun summer in store for us.” Talk about a summer blockbuster!
Previously dazzling audiences in the musical In Pieces at the Public Theater in NYC, Martinez is no stranger to the stage. He was handpicked by singer-songwriter Joey Contreras for his role, which he described as “truly a dream come true.” Now, he’s ready to bring that same passion to Salem, where Javi’s story is set to unfold with even more drama and heart.
For those who may not be up to speed, Javi’s return comes on the heels of some serious heartbreak. After a tumultuous breakup with Leo, played by out actor Greg Rikaart, and a family crisis involving his father’s health, Javi is back and ready to stir the pot. Martinez is stepping into a role that has already made waves in the LGBTQ community, especially since Javi’s past relationship was one of the first same-sex couples to tie the knot on daytime TV.
“Being in a space where you feel like everyone in the room has your best interest at heart is truly a gift,” Martinez shared. He’s not just looking to fill shoes; he’s looking to inspire. “The truth is, Javi is the kind of character I wish I could have looked up to on television as a kid. Getting the chance to hopefully be that inspiration for another kid somewhere in a small town makes it all worthwhile,” he said, reflecting on the importance of representation.
Martinez’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Growing up in Nebraska as a closeted gay boy in a conservative environment was tough. “I experienced panic attacks, stomach problems, and sleep apnea — all because I was hiding one of the most beautiful parts of who I am,” he recalled. It wasn’t until he moved to New York and had a profound conversation with God that he found the courage to embrace his true self. “It felt like He said to me, ‘Jacob, stop denying the parts of yourself that I am ready to embrace and love.'”
Now, as he prepares for his debut on Days of Our Lives, Martinez is ready to take the reins of Javi with all the heart and passion he can muster. “Being Hispanic, gay, and an emergency medical technician definitely helped me draw from real-life experiences when I got the role. But after reading the first few scripts, it became clear to me what truly drives this character: his heart,” he explained.
As the drama unfolds this summer, fans will be glued to their screens, eager to see how Javi navigates his return to Salem. Will he mend his broken heart? How will he deal with his father’s health crisis? And what about his complicated relationship with Leo? The stakes are high, and Martinez is ready to deliver.
So mark your calendars, folks! The first episode featuring Jacob Martinez as Javi will stream on Peacock starting June 30. Get ready for a summer filled with love, drama, and a whole lot of heart! 🌈