Salem’s resident schemer, Xander Kiriakis, may have recently rekindled a connection with Gwen Rizczech on Days of Our Lives, but a lasting romance appears unlikely. While the Valentine’s Day reunion has sparked conversation among fans, the character’s own admission about his emotional state suggests this chapter could be short-lived. The complexities of Xander’s past, coupled with a newfound focus on self-improvement, are creating significant hurdles for any potential relationship.
The dynamic between Xander and Gwen has always been fraught with manipulation and shifting allegiances. Now, still, the obstacles appear to be internal. Paul Telfer, the actor who brings Xander to life, recently shared insights into his character’s mindset, revealing a deliberate shift away from romantic pursuits. This comes at a time when Xander is actively prioritizing personal growth, potentially jeopardizing any chance of a stable relationship with Gwen or anyone else.
Xander’s Focus on Self-Improvement
In a recent conversation, Paul Telfer explained that Xander is “not open to romance with anyone, really, only due to the fact that he knows that now is the time to work internally. To work on himself.” Telfer elaborated, stating Xander “just needs time to be himself before getting all confused and chasing after some other beautiful girl.” This marks a departure from Xander’s typical pattern of seeking external validation and fleeting connections. He’s seemingly committed to a more sustained period of self-reflection and development, a change that could significantly alter his approach to relationships.
This isn’t to say Xander has completely abandoned his mischievous tendencies. Telfer acknowledged that while his character is making progress, he’s still capable of old habits. The potential to stir up trouble, particularly with Sarah Horton, remains a strong possibility. A renewed connection with Gwen could easily be leveraged to provoke a reaction from his former love, demonstrating that even with growth, Xander’s impulsive side hasn’t entirely disappeared.
The Allure of Other Possibilities
Despite his stated intention to focus on himself, Xander isn’t immune to temptation. Telfer admitted, “If some beautiful lady were to swan into Salem, it might turn Xander’s head.” However, he also believes Xander is now self-aware enough to recognize that “now is not a good time,” even if his hopes of rekindling things with Sarah are dwindling. This internal conflict – the desire for connection versus the require for self-work – is likely to be a central theme in Xander’s storyline.
Paul Telfer’s portrayal of Xander Kiriakis has garnered critical acclaim, including a Daytime Emmy nomination in 2020 for his work on the baby-switch storyline, as noted by Soap Hub. His ability to portray the character’s complexities – the charm, the manipulation and the underlying vulnerability – has made Xander a fan favorite on Days of Our Lives.
What’s Next for Xander and Gwen?
The future of Xander and Gwen’s relationship remains uncertain. While their recent encounter suggests a lingering attraction, Xander’s commitment to personal growth casts a shadow over any long-term prospects. It’s possible their connection will serve as a temporary distraction, a way to explore unresolved feelings, before Xander fully dedicates himself to his own journey. The dynamic between the two will undoubtedly continue to be a source of drama and intrigue in Salem.
As Xander navigates his path toward self-improvement, viewers can expect to notice him grapple with his past actions and confront his inner demons. Whether he can successfully balance his desire for connection with his need for self-discovery remains to be seen. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Xander and Gwen can overcome the obstacles that stand in their way, or if their reunion is destined to end in heartbreak.
What do you think will happen with Xander and Gwen? Share your predictions in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with other Days of Our Lives fans!
