Soap Wire's Performer of the Week: Elia Cantu "Jada" on 'Days of Our Lives'

We absolutely have to talk about Elia Cantu as Jada Hunter on Days of Our Lives — she is, without question, Soap’s Performer of the Week. The characters of Jada and Shawn are rapidly cultivating a devoted following, and it’s easy to see why. Their chemistry is utterly electric — undeniable and compelling. Elia’s portrayal of Jada is layered with nuance: from the lingering glances to the subtle internal conflict of being drawn to someone new while still emotionally tethered to someone from her past. That is top-tier acting.

This week, Elia was given emotionally charged material, and she delivered with remarkable depth. Jada made the difficult decision to confess to Rafe that she had slept with Shawn — unaware at the time that he had been kidnapped and replaced by a doppelgänger. Elia masterfully conveyed Jada’s turmoil, heartbreak, and guilt as she explained the truth. Her performance captured that devastating mix of resolve, honesty, and emotional unraveling. She had no idea the man who hurt her wasn’t truly her fiancé, and the anguish of that realization, coupled with her outburst of frustration, was utterly gut-wrenching to witness.

Jada, a character typically composed, rational, and clear-headed, allowed her pain to override her usual control — and Elia brought every ounce of that vulnerability to the screen with grace and authenticity. And just when we thought she couldn’t give us more, she shifted beautifully into scenes with Paulina — Jada, intoxicated and unraveling, still managed to show flashes of warmth and even a flicker of laughter amid the sorrow. That emotional range is no small feat.

Bravo to Elia Cantu for an extraordinary performance — her emotional intelligence, tenderness, and raw talent continue to shine through each scene. We cannot wait to see where this storyline goes, especially as it unfolds between Jada and Shawn D. Thank you, Elia, for such a compelling and heartfelt portrayal.