It sure pays to play a Carly on ABC’s General Hospital. Yet another ex-Carly returns to the soap opera world tomorrow, this time on NBC’s Days of Our Lives.

Tamara Braun, who played Carly Benson-Roberts Corinthos on General Hospital from 2001-2005 arrives in Salem on Friday, February 8.

Braun’s character is Ava, described as a ‘mystery woman’ from Steve “Patch” Johnson’s past. If history is any indication, Days fans should warm up to her fast.

When Tamara Braun joined ABC’s General Hospital in 2001 she took over the role of a pivotal, established character. The actress who originated Carly in the 90’s, Sarah Brown was and still is a fan favorite. Brown just returned to Port Charles in an entirely new role as Claudia Zacchara.

Tamara Braun won over GH viewers and critics alike, garnering a Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in 2004. She left GH in 2005 to pursue other projects. The actress has appeared on shows like CBS‘s CSI, Ghost Whisperer, Without a Trace and Cold Case. Braun also has a role in 2008’s Little Chenier: A Cajun Story, a limited release movie about two brothers living in the bayou whose lives are turned upside down when one is accused of a crime.

Now to the other two Carlys. In a twist that could only happen in the soap opera world, both are back in Port Charles.

The original Carly, Sarah Brown, blew into town last week as an entirely new character. She plays Claudia Zacchara, daughter of deranged mob boss Anthony Zacchara and half-sister of fledgling mob boss Johnny Zacchara. As explained on the February 6th episode, Claudia left home at 16 and has been living abroad. Her first day back in the states included an anonymous one-night stand with fellow mob kingpin Sonny Corinthos (played by Maurice Benard). In case you’re drawing a diagram or something, Sonny was Brown’s husband when she was the original Carly. Now it appears the two will play sexually attracted mortal enemies.

As for the current Carly, ex-Guiding Light star Laura Wright‘s story line appears to be heating up as well. She and nice-guy husband Jasper Jacks just found out they’re pregnant. Carly is also one of the drivers involved in Sam’s (played by actress Kelly Monaco‘s)  hit and run, text-message killer attack storyline.

Days of Our Lives airs on NBC and Soapnet, General Hospital airs on ABC and Soapnet. Check your local listings for both shows.