The Days of Our Lives message boards are lighting up over the possibility that the show has fired long-time star Drake Hogestyn.

But for now, it's unconfirmed.

"I haven't heard that rumor," said a baffled Peter Reckell. "I can't say this is true."

One piece of gossip says new co-Executive Producer Ed Scott addressed the cast and crew recently, saying how excited he was to have come on board, but added ominously: "If you pout, you are out."

Along those lines, Hogestyn has made no secret of his frustration with the lack of story Days of Our Lives has given him this year, saying at his June 2nd fan event: "I've got six months left on my contract. At some point everybody is going to leave the show."

Considering Hogestyn's popularity with cast, crew and fans, no one can believe they would actually kill John for real.

"I have no answers except to say how much I absolutely love Drake," said Alison Sweeney. "What a wonderful addition he is to the show. He started way before me, so we worked together for 15 years. I love him dearly, like a father."

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.