Casey Deidrick (Chad DiMera) today confirmed a rumor that has been running rampant since April: he is leaving Days of our Lives. Fans may find solace in knowing that DAYS' frenetic production schedule means that the actor will air into the fall.

"Taped my final episode today on #DOOL. One more day of filming tomorrow," Deidrick revealed on Twitter. "What an amazing experience, thank you all!"

In April, Days of our Lives issued a casting call for the role of "Derek," for which the show was seeking a Caucasian actor in his mid-20s. The character is described as "incredibly charismatic, intelligent, quick witted, and sincere with a heart of gold." The description also notes that when crossed, Derek can be quite dangerous.

The casting notice also required that all interested actors be at least 6'0" tall.

There was immediate speculation that "Derek" was a cloaked casting name for the role of Chad DiMera. Deidrick had been booking primetime roles, and there were whispers that he wanted to leave daytime.

Canadian actor/model Nick Bateman posted a DAYS audition photo to his Instagram account in April, and the actor seemed to fit the bill for the role of Derek. Bateman did not reveal what role he had auditioned for. Since that time, the names of several other former daytime stars have been linked to a mystery Days of our Lives audition.

DAYS has not confirmed that anyone has been hired for the role of Derek, but the character is not slated to tape any scenes until mid- to late July.

Deidrick first appeared as Chad in June 2009. The actor will air for the final time on October 30.