In a shocking move certain to shake things up at DAYS OF OUR LIVES, Crystal Chappell (Carly) and Michael Sabatino (Lawrence) will leave the show during the coming weeks. Both actors skyrocketed to popularity three years ago when they joined the soap as star-crossed lovers who became a real-life couple behind the scenes.

Despite pleas from ardent fans, the show never put the two together as a couple, choosing instead to keep Carly with Bo (Robert Kelker-Kelly). In SOU's June 29 issue, Chappell told us that because of the success of the character, she was able to renegotiate her initial three-year contract early, extending it through November '94. Her decision to exit comes at the tail-end of the gothic DAYS summer story which had Aunt Vivian (Louise Sorel) setting Carly up for the murders of her patients.

"There's just no more story to tell for these characters." the actress said through her spokesperson. Both actors asked to be let out early from their contracts, and as we went to press, they were negotiating about when their final tape date will take place.

Their simultaneous exit leads to speculation that Lawrence and Carly may go off into the sunset together, finally becoming the family that their son Nikki has wanted them to be. Regardless, this will leave the door open for a Bo/Billie (Lisa Rinna) pairing, as the non-couple have been igniting the screen with chemistry for many months.

DAYS confirmed the news and at this time it looks as though the door will be left open for the character of Lawrence to return.

DAYS issued this statement: "Their departure will provide DAYS OF OUR LIVES viewers with a satisfying conclusion to the Bo/Carly/Lawrence story, which is currently targeted to air in October. (Headwriter) Jim Reilly has created an ending which will provide our audience with excellent daytime viewing and, while no one is happy to see these talented actors depart the show, it is a storyline necessity at this time." Co-executive producer Tom Langan says, "Michael and Crystal have made a considerable contribution to DAYS during their tenure. They are both consummate performers and professionals and we wish them well."

Karie's DAYS Page: Sabatino & Chappell