Published reports had Jay Kenneth Johnson returning to the role, a role he held down from 1999 through the fall of 2002. However, an outside television project forced the actor to pass on a return to daytime.
Johnson is in the running for a potential part in a primetime remake of the Aaron Spelling series Hotel. While the series has not yet been given the green light, Johnson has already begun production for the pilot episode.
Internet rumors had had Johnson returning to help escort Chloe and the Wesley family out of Salem. Now, however, with Johnson out it looks like Philip will be sticking around for more than just a handful of episodes.
Newcomer Kyle Brandt, seen on MTV's Real World: Chicago, will assume the role of Philip in May.