Hall and Hogestyn heading back to 'Days'

LOS ANGELES, July 12 (UPI) -- Deidre Hall and Drake Hogestyn have signed up to return to the U.S. soap opera "Days of Our Lives," NBC said Monday.

Hall and Hogestyn reportedly were let go from the series due to budget constraints in 2009.

"Deidre has starred as the adored Dr. Marlena Evans on the show for 35 of its 45 years and is recognized as one of the biggest icons of daytime television, while Drake has appeared alongside her as [John Black] for 25 years as half of one of the biggest super-couples in soap opera history," the network said in a news release. "Together the two have had four weddings, raised a family together, and survived paralysis, amnesia, false deaths, and mind-control, all while representing the idea that true love and family conquers all."

"We are thrilled that Deidre and Drake are rejoining the show," producer Ken Corday said in a statement. "I know their return will excite loyal fans and intrigue new viewers. We are gearing up for some amazing cast surprises and guest stars visiting Salem in the fall, launching a grand event airing on Sept. 26."