It may have been Beyond the Gates star Clifton Davis's 80th birthday, but it's fans of Greg Vaughan who are getting the gift! The actor was spotted in the background of an Instagram post about Clifton's on-set celebration. Now, there's confirmation that the Daytime Emmy winner, for his role as Eric on Days of our Lives, is joining the show!
Beyond the Gates open up for Greg Vaughan
"Celebrating our cast mate @thecliftondavis on his 80th birthday, October 3rd!!" posted Trisha Mann Grant, who plays Dana "Leslie" Thomas on the CBS soap opera. "(Hey Clifton, mine is on November 3rd, so you better be there!😁) He made me cry y’all. He was genuinely surprised by the cast, crew, and producers. Great job on the cake @elleq.everything 🎂💕
"This was such a special day for our very own 'Vernon,'" Grant added. "The @beyondthegatescbs Fam loves you dearly, Clifton! Keep shining your light!✨❤️."
Buzz Worthy got the news confirmed by the show's publicity department first.
From Salem to Fairmont Crest

Vaughan began his soap opera career nearly 30 years ago. The actor first popped up on the series Baywatch, Malibu Shores, and Beverly Hills, 90210. In 2002, he stepped into the role of Diego on The Young and the Restless. The actor had no sooner wrapped up his gig in Genoa City than he was scooped by General Hospital to play the part of Lucy Spencer.
Vaughan took on the part of Lucky after Jacob Young left the part. After about a six-year run in Port Charles, Vaughan returned to prime time shows, appearing on 90210, CBG, and Queen Sugar.
In 2012, Vaughan returned to the daytime genre when he took on the part of Eric Brady, the part previously played by Jensen Ackles (Supernatural). Vaughan won the Daytime Emmy in the category of Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2018.
Vaughan returned to Days of our Lives earlier this year for the memorial service for his late stepdad, John Black (the late, great Drake Hogestyn). Now, he's adding another serial to his extensive acting resume with a role on Beyond the Gates. Stay tuned for details on who the fan favorite will be playing!
Catch all-new episodes of Beyond the Gates on CBS and Paramount Plus