I had no idea all that was going on. According to Laibson, there are many factors involved in deciding to bring back a character. And what is the strongest thing in terms of story at the moment. Laibson says that sometimes producers want very much to bring a character back, but don't act on it immediately, as they feel the story will benefit more by bringing them back at a later date. However, if decisions were always made on what the fans wanted, there would be chaos, as there are camps of fans who want different things.
Producers ultimately base their decisions on what's best for the story.
Not to mention, actor availability. Cady left the show of her own accord, choosing to pursue other interests. Her fans were more than disappointed. Although they wanted what she wanted, they missed her in Pine Valley, felt Dixie belonged back with Tad, and mounted major write-in campaigns which caused her to reconsider. They felt having her back was something the show really needed.