Days Short Recap Friday, August 8, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Brady mailed Tate’s letter to the adoptive parents when he ran into Sarah at the town square. She was surprised when he mentioned Chicago. Sarah thought about finding out that Sophia lied about the sex of her baby. Brady noticed that something was off with Sarah, bur she covered her tracks. He invited her to go out for dinner at the Bistro. Gabi and Xander were at the Bistro. She flirted with him as she got him to keep drinking. Gabi praised him for going after DiMera Enterprises. She also talked to him about self-doubt. Gabi was digging for information to find out why his marriage ended. The only thing Xander told her was that he did something he regretted, and Sarah did something he couldn’t forgive. Gabi thought he should move on with his life. She made a move on him and kissed him. Sarah and Brady happened to be there when she kissed him. Xander spotted Sarah and ended the kiss. Sarah told Brady they didn’t need to go to a different place. Xander panicked because he thought he hurt Sarah until Gabi reminded him that he didn’t do anything wrong. She reminded him that Sarah was there with Brady. Xander’s panic turned into fury. His marriage was over, but his life wasn’t done. Gabi smugly smiled to herself while Xander ranted about Sarah. She tried to get information about Xander’s relationship with Philip. Xander didn’t provide anything because he was drinking and watching Sarah with Brady. He saw Sarah grab for Brady’s hand. Xander got upset and jumped out of his chair. He went to Sarah’s table and demanded Victoria back since she wasn’t with her. Sarah angrily reminded him that Victoria was with the nanny. She reminded him that they had a custody agreement. Sarah felt like Xander wasn’t in a place to be with Victoria. She said that he could make out with anyone he wanted, and she could do the same. Sarah pulled Brady into a kiss.

Belle felt like EJ wanting a mistrial was ridiculous. EJ defended his motion to Judge Daphne. The judge called a recess. She sent Johnny and the jury out of the courtroom. Judge Daphne called EJ a hypocrite since he had a conflict of interest too. She also reminded him about his relationship with Belle. Belle told her that their relationship was the least of their problems. She said that EJ was the victim and the defendant’s father. Judge Daphne reminded Belle that she was Johnny’s aunt. The judge denied the motion for dismissal. Belle informed the judge that her relationship with EJ wouldn’t be a problem because they weren’t together anymore. The judge released the jury for the day and threatened to throw Belle and EJ in contempt. Belle stormed out of the courtroom. Johnny went back in the courtroom and wanted to know why EJ treated Belle the way he did. EJ didn’t have a choice because she was turning the jury against her. He refused to apologize for stopping Belle from getting to the jury. Johnny didn’t want him to sacrifice his happiness with Belle because of him. EJ assured him that it would be his fault if his relationship ended. Johnny and EJ went into the hall while Belle talked to Marlena that she would never forgive EJ for what he did to her. EJ was about to say something when Marlena stopped him. Belle told her that she was okay. She took EJ into an empty courtroom. Belle yelled at him for what he did to her in the courtroom. She felt like he didn’t care who got in the way of what he wanted. Belle told him that they were done and that he was dead to her.

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BTG Short Recap Friday, August 8, 2025

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

Bill was upset that Hayley lost the baby. When Bill left to get Hayley some tea, Naomi asked if her father was mourning a baby that never existed. Hayley said the baby was real but the ultrasound wasn’t. Naomi didn’t believe her. Hayley told her that she was afraid to get the ultrasound because it might prove that something was wrong with the baby. She wondered if the ultrasound would have saved her baby. Naomi agreed not to say anything to her father. When Bill came back, Naomi didn’t say anything. She ended up leaving. Bill let Hayley know that it wasn’t her fault. Jan told Derek to reunite with Ashley. She advised him to fight for Ashley. Derek listened to Jan’s advice. Later on, he went to Ashley’s apartment. He asked her for another chance. Derek tried to convince Ashley that he was the one for her. He said he wouldn’t keep going back and forth and wanted to know if it was going to be now or never. Later on, Derek went to Uptown and told Jan that Ashley chose Andre.

Dani went to see Andre to tell him that she caused Hayley to lose her baby. She called Bill to find out what was going on with the baby. It was confirmed that Hayley lost the baby. Dani called herself a monster for causing Hayley to lose her baby. Andre said he didn’t believe that Dani wanted to hurt the baby. He said it wasn’t her fault and that Hayley came looking for a fight. Dani hugged him but let go because she thought she was being selfish. She said she kept crossing the line of wanting and needing him. Dani said it couldn’t be take, take, take every time they’re together. They started kissing each other. Ashley walked in and saw them kissing. When Ashley left, Andre and Dani stopped kissing. Dani said she refused to use him. Andre said he would hold her all night because they were friends. Vanessa told Joey that his problem with Doug was gone. She said she told Doug about the bug in his car. While she was talking to Joey, Doug met up with Randy to talk about dealing with Joey. He said he couldn’t expose Joey without Vanessa going down so he said they had to aim higher. Doug wanted to connect Joey to Kenneth’s death. Randy said they would do it his way. He said Joey wouldn’t see it coming.

 

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BTG Short Recap Thursday, August 7, 2025

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

Hayley was in excruciating pain, but she didn’t want Dani to help her. She asked a stranger to take her to the hospital. The person turned out to be Randy. Dani called Bill to let him know that he couldn’t leave town because Hayley was rushed to the hospital. Ashley couldn’t violate HIPPA by telling everything about Hayley so Naomi tried to get the info without using names. Naomi wondered why the woman rejected the ultrasound. She remembered that her father showed her the ultrasound. Randy returned to Uptown and told Dani that Hayley didn’t want her at the hospital and her. Dani thought Randy looked familiar so he tried to cover his tracks and left. Elon questioned Joey about the dead guy in the park. They both knew who the man was in the park. Elon asked Joey if he put a hit on the guy. Joey informed him that he wasn’t going down alone. Elon told him that the investigation was shut down. They agreed to go their separate ways. Jacob walked in and saw them shaking hands. He accused his father of looking the other way where Joey is concerned. Elon reminded him about the times he overlooked the Duprees crimes.

Doug was drinking and warned Vanessa that Joey was dangerous. Vanessa informed him that Joey had the car bugged. She was worried about him. Vanessa said she loved him. Doug told her to stop laundering for Joey before he goes down and takes her with him. Naomi wondered why Hayley faked a sonogram. Ashley revealed that Dani thought Hayley was faking her pregnancy. Naomi thought Hayley could have lived her life as a gold digger without faking a pregnancy. Vanessa told Joey that she convinced Doug to back off. Doug bought a new phone to call Randy. He was shocked that he was still in town. Naomi went to Bill’s place to confront Hayley. She told Naomi that she felt better. Naomi wanted to know why she lied about the ultrasound. Before she could answer, Bill walked in the room. Hayley announced that she lost the baby.

 

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Days Short Recap Thursday, August 7, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Xander told Alex that someone was trying to overturn the merger with DiMera, and he wanted him to find out who did it. Gabi went to Steve. He used the Freedom of Information Act to get the merger filings that raised red flags for Xander. Steve didn’t know if they could find the answers there, but he would keep looking. Gabi planned to keep looking too. She called Xander to make dinner plans with him. Later Alex asked Steve for his help to find the person messing with the merger. They came up with Daniel Lucas, but Alex thought it was an alias. Steve couldn’t find anymore information. Alex took his word for it since he was the best detective he knew. Steve questioned him about his grand theft and indecent proposal charges. Alex explained that it was a prank that happened in college. Steve apologized for asking. He was looking out for Stephanie. Tony talked to Anna about getting thr company back with Gabi’s help. Anna hoped he didn’t want to stay in Salem. Tony said Gabi would be CEO, and he could run the company from anywhere in the world. Chanel told Johnny that he didn’t have to testify during the trial. Johnny wanted to prove his innocence. He said his father was building a strong case that anyone could have shot him.

Everyone returned to the courthouse. The Attorney General (Johnathan) informed Belle that he would be watching her since she’s prosecuting her nephew. Belle assured him that she would be impartial. Johnny admitted to EJ that he was stressed out because Belle asked him about why he was mad at him. EJ warned him not to mention Sami’s rape. He said to tell that he got in the way of him and Chanel adopting. Belle got Johnny to admit he was upset because his mother was raped. He also admitted that he took Roman’s gun because he considered using it. Belle looked at Johnathan, and he nodded with approval. He left the building. EJ cross-examined Johnny, and things got heated when he accused her of bringing things into evidence that weren’t presented yet. Belle questioned Johnny again and got him to admit that he thought EJ got what he deserved and that he hoped he died. EJ git up to question Johnny again. He asked Johnny about his relationship with Belle. Johnny was confused, but he said Belle was his girlfriend.  EJ told the judge that Belle had a conflict of interest and shouldn’t be prosecuting the case. He called for a dismissal.

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GH Short Recap Thursday, August 7, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Anna and Jordan tell Laura they have no proof that Jens Siddwell has committed any crimes. Jordan tells Laura she must do something to prove to Jens that he can trust her. Laura doesn’t want Jordan to do something so risky, but Jordan tells Laura she is willing to take the risk to protect Port Charles.

Ric hires Martin to get him out of his arrangement with Ava without Ava knowing anything about it until their business partnership is over.

Ava flirts with Cody at the Metro Court pool.

Drew asks Martin to help Willow get custody of her kids. Martin tells Drew that Ric represents Willow and Nina is paying for it.

Drew orders Jens Siddwell to give him any dirt that he has on Sonny.

The president of Anna’s HOA complains to Laura about Outback. The dog’s constant barking and the fact that her building doesn’t allow dogs. Laura tells Anna that she must find another home for Outback because Mabel, the head of the HOA, complains about everything to the city.

Anna gets the Fire Department to inspect the lecture hall where Henry Dalton will be speaking and, since the lecture hall failed the inspection, the lecture is canceled.

Emma tells Gio that she must expose Henry Dalton tonight so she will create an opportunity for Gio to get into the lab.

Drew tells Alexis that he and Scout are moving to Washington DC.

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Y&R Short Recap Friday, August 8, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Billy tells Jack about Cane’s plan to take over all the major companies in Genoa City. Billy and Jack secretly team up to protect Jabot from Cane.

Phyllis later tells Billy that Cane doesn’t want to work with him anymore. Billy tells Phyllis that Cane will have to tell him that himself.

Victor tells Cane to come to the ranch so they can talk.

Cane asks Phyllis to hack into the computer systems of Chancellor Industries, Jabot, and Newman Enterprises so they can do some shopping.

Victor tells Cane that he will team up with him to go after Jabot, but he still can’t have Chancellor Industries.

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Days Update Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Gabi gets up at home and takes Rafe’s coffee, saying she needs the caffeine more than him because she has an important meeting with Xander and needs to be on her game. Rafe responds that he also has an important meeting.

Chad hugs Julie and tells her that he’s so grateful she figured out they were stuck in the elevator all night. Julie remarks that she can’t imagine how they passed the time. Cat mentions that after awhile, she fell asleep. Chad jokes that he can’t believe the repairman turned out to be their skydiving instructor. Julie calls the whole incident odd. Cat says luckily no one got hurt this time.

Johnny enters the living room of the DiMera Mansion where he startles Susan, who was watching a video on mediums. Susan tells Johnny that they missed him at breakfast. Johnny informs her that he went to Marlena’s to see Sami. Susan can’t believe Sami is back in Salem as EJ walks in to the room. EJ mentions that Sydney told him Sami was coming to visit and it’s good for her to be there for Johnny’s trial. Johnny clarifies that Sami won’t be coming to court. Susan bets Sami doesn’t want to see EJ and argues that Sami is still obsessed with EJ.

Gabi guesses Rafe’s important meeting is a top secret FBI rendezvous. Gabi asks if he’s working on any interesting cases. Rafe calls it nothing too exciting. Gabi is sure they’ll get around to getting him good stuff later on. Gabi asks if the FBI has finally assigned him a partner but Rafe claims that they haven’t.

Marlena takes Julie to get coffee at the hospital. Marlena says she knows Julie isn’t fond of Cat but asks her to try to hide her disdain. Julie claims she did but admits it wasn’t her best effort. Julie compares Cat to Gabi and says she doesn’t see how Chad can stomach being around her after all the pain she caused the Hortons. Chad apologizes to Cat. Cat says she understands why Julie isn’t excited to see her. Chad points out that Felicity was. Chad figured Felicity would stick around but she went to work and calls her a very loyal worker. Cat talks about Chanel being amazing with Felicity. Cat says she felt like Chad was about to tell her something when the elevator went haywire and asks what that was.

Xander has a dream about being in bed with Sarah, then is disappointed to wake up in bed alone.

Marlena goes to meet Sarah at the hospital for her appointment. Marlena explains that she was late because she was involved in a rescue as Chad and Cat got stuck in the elevator overnight, so she and Julie discovered them and helped until the repairman got them out. Sarah brings up that she told EJ last night about the elevator having issues and he did nothing. Marlena comments on EJ no taking care of business. Marlena asks about her test results. Sarah explains that she initially thought her symptoms were psychogenic but now she thinks there may be a physical underlying cause but all of her tests came back negative.

Chad claims to Cat that he doesn’t remember so it must not have been very important. Julie comes over and brings Chad a coffee. Julie tells Cat that she’s sorry but that was the last coffee. Cat says she should get going and exits the hospital. Julie questions where she’s off to in a hell of a hurry, suggesting she’s going to try to scam a new victim.

Marlena questions Sarah saying the test results didn’t show anything and asks what she is supposed to do now as she needs to know what’s going on. Marlena flashes back to Susan saying she sensed that she wasn’t well. Sarah asks Marlena if everything is alright.

Johnny assures Susan that Sami is not obsessed with EJ. Susan brings up Sami coming to see EJ last time which EJ notes was because he was unconscious. Johnny clarifies that Sami has made a quick trip to see Marlena and honor John as it’s the first time she’s been back since he passed away. Johnny explains that they both agreed it would be best for Sami to support from a distance, especially because Sydney still needs her and with the emotions it would stir up. EJ says he can respect that but Susan says she can not.

Xander sits in his office, looking at a photo of he and Sarah with Victoria. Gabi arrives and Xander points out that she’s late. Gabi blames her assistant for forgetting to print out the latest Gabi Chic numbers but tells Xander they are impressive. Xander says he told her that they would be. Xander asks if she’s glad she gave up trying to take her company and run. Gabi says she didn’t have a choice but it turns out they make a pretty good team. Xander asks about Arianna. Gabi says she’s good and just a little shaken up. Xander says he’s glad to hear it. Gabi thanks him again for offering to put up reward money to find her, noting it was extremely generous. Xander says he was happy to help and relates to wanting to keep their only child safe. Gabi offers to take Xander to lunch at the Bistro to thank him, saying it’s the least she could do but Xander questions what is going on here. Gabi claims she’s just trying to show her appreciation and argues that there’s no harm in colleagues having a meal together to celebrate a successful business partnership. Gabi clarifies that it’s not a date and says she knows he’s happily married, or unhappily at the moment.

Cat meets Rafe in his office and apologizes for being late, revealing she was stuck in an elevator all night at the hospital. Rafe says he’s so sorry and it must have been so awful. Cat clarifies that she wasn’t alone as Chad was with her.

Chad tells Julie that how she feels about Cat is up to her as it’s not his place to change her mind, but he asks that it goes both ways. Julie tells Chad that if he wants her to approve of his relationship with Cat, he can forget about it. Chad insists they are just friends. Julie questions being friends with someone who impersonated Abigail and caused their family so much false hope. Julie declares that she and Jennifer will never forgive her for that. Chad says he understands that but he won’t let anyone tell him who he can or can’t socialize with. Julie angrily asks if he wants her to set a place for her at the table and get her an ornament on the Horton Christmas tree. Chad understands that it’s about more than what Cat did to them as Julie wants to protect what he and Abigail had. Chad assures that no one could ever replace Abigail. Julie cries that it just makes her sick to see Chad with Cat. Chad says he knows because she tells him every chance she gets. Chad adds that she can hate Cat if she wants, but he doesn’t want to see or hear about it anymore. Chad tells Julie that he loves her but he wants her to keep her opinions about it to herself.

Sarah asks Marlena if she’s okay. Marlena says she’s fine. Sarah knows how frustrating it can be to not know what’s going on in your own body. Marlena says the tests aren’t going to show them anything so she guesses she’ll just have to live with it. Sarah asks if she ever attended any suppor groups. Marlena says she found a therapist and has had one session so far. Marlena adds that Sami is in town and they had a long, tender conversation that covered a lot of ground. Marlena talks about having wonderful family and friends. Sarah acknowledges that she’s been wonderful to them through so many hard times. Marlena asks how Sarah is since Brady told her that she and Xander separated. Sarah confirms that they just can’t be married anymore. Marlena says she’s sorry. Sarah says they just reached a breaking point. Sarah is glad they recognized it and acknowledged they needed to make a change and agreed that splitting up is the best choice so they can both move forward.

Xander informs Gabi that he and Sarah are legally separated as of yesterday. Gabi says she’s so sorry and suggests a nice lunch at the Bistro would cheer him up. Xander says there’s no way he’d get out to lunch as he’s way too busy with too much to do. Gabi suggests dinner instead which Xander says will work. Gabi reiterates that it’s not a date. Xander then get a call and asks who the hell it was which interests Gabi.

EJ argues that Susan is contradicting herself by not wanting Sami around him at the trial but then not supporting her decision to support Johnny from afar. Susan repeats that Sami is obsessed with EJ. EJ assures that he’s perfectly safe from Sami and all they have in common now is their children. Susan complains about Sami’s nasty streak. Johnny stops her and says that’s his mom she’s talking about. Susan comments on both parents having their faults. EJ says he had one good parent while Sami had two. Johnny says she basically had three with John. Susan talks about John being the sweetest man ever. Susan then declares that Marlena has gone back to the dark side which Johnny questions. Susan insists that deep trouble has resided within Marlena. EJ suggests Johnny go upstairs to get ready for court while he talks to Susan. Johnny wants to know why Susan would say that about Marlena. EJ understands but says trial comes first and there are some important documents for him to review. Johnny then heads upstairs. EJ question what is going on with Susan as he thought Marlena was one of her dearest friends. Susan says she is and that’s why she’s so worried about her. EJ asks what she’s worried about. Susan says she doesn’t know exactly. Susan adds that when she hugged Marlena, she got the strangest feelings and vibes. EJ argues that she was just sensing Marlena being in mourning. Susan decides he might be right. EJ suggests she put her psychic energy to good use and find out who really shot him which is why she came to Salem in the first place. Susan admits she’s not getting so lucky. EJ adds that he also had no luck at his latest attempt at figuring out what happened on the night he was shot since Marlena hypnotized him and it didn’t work.

Marlena comments that Sarah seems at peace with her decision. Sarah responds that she is since she and Xander have worked out a shared custody agreement for Victoria, so she feels like everything is going to be okay. Marlena admires her positive attitude. Marlena reminds her to keep an eye on her feelings because they won’t all be positive and it could be very difficult to end a relationship that’s been central to her life. Sarah assures that she knows and thanks her for listening as she really appreciates it. Sarah brings up how Marlena is feeling and says that grief is definitely a part of it. Sarah says therapy and time will help but she does think there’s a physical cause and she intends to find the answer that will give her relief. Marlena thanks her and says she is reminded of her dads, Neil and Mickey as they would both be so proud of her.

Rafe asks Cat about her having self-defense training. Cat says it was years ago and she’s sure it was nothing compared to what Rafe had at the academy, so she’s grateful for the refresh. Cat notes that Shane promised she wouldn’t be in the field often but she wants to make sure she can defend herself.

Marlena hopes she didn’t upset Sarah by bringing up Mickey and Neil. Sarah says not at all and that it’s really nice to think they’d be proud of her since she doesn’t feel very proud of herself right now. Sarah knows that she and Xander splitting up is the right choice, but she wanted Victoria to grow up with both of her parents under the same roof. Marlena says she’s been there and even though they might not be together, Victoria will still have a loving home. Sarah thanks her and says that’s enough about her since they are here to figure out what’s going on with Marlena. Marlena asks what Sarah is thinking. Sarah says it could be chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia. Marlena notes they are both illnesses that don’t have a cure and how they mostly affect women. Sarah says most of their symptoms can be treated but first they need to get her an accurate diagnosis. Sarah assures they are in this together and they will talk soon. Marlena says she will take her leave and see her soon as she exits.

Chad apologizes to Julie for coming off harsh. Julie decides he’s right that she should keep her big mouth shut and she always oversteps. Julie hopes he knows that it just comes from a place of love. Chad assures that he knows that. Chad hopes Julie knows how much he appreciates the love she gives him and the kids. Julie says since Doug died, the hours she spends with his children are the best hours of her day. Julie tells Chad that their favorite activity has been going to Foster’s Book Store in the town square. Julie mentions it being up for sale. Julie asks if Chad would be interested in buying it.

Xander says to find out who is behind it and he wants answers on this now as he hangs up. Gabi asks what’s going on. Xander informs her that someone filed an information request, looking in to Titan’s takeover of DiMera and whoever it is wants to see every single document. Gabi asks what they need to worry about if the takeover is legit. Xander decides they are all done here, so Gabi says she’ll be in touch about dinner as she then exits the office.

Rafe and Cat work on self defense techniques. Cat then begins to imagine Rafe as Chad until she snaps out of it and they start over.

Julie tells Chad how thrilled Thomas and Charlotte would be if their dad owned their favorite store. Julie believes there is still a market for books but Chad feels that’s getting smaller every day. Julie talks about opposing that and trying to give the kids a love of books. Julie feels kids need to see their parents reading and passing it on through generations. Chad comments on how passionate Julie is about this, so he asks why she doesn’t buy the book store.

Johnny returns to the living room and tells EJ that he didn’t find those documents. EJ admits there weren’t any and apologizes for the ruse, but he felt he needed a break from Susan. Johnny says he’s used to Susan ragging on Sami but the things she said about Marlena with darkness and evil took him back to the time when he was possessed. Johnny talks about feeling that way when he was so full of hate for EJ and he doesn’t want to be that person ever again.

Susan runs in to Marlena in the town square and apologizes for upsetting her yesterday when she said she was sick in the mind, soul, and body. Marlena tells Susan that she just had an appointment with her doctor, had some tests run, and got a clean bill of health. Susan calls that so strange and suddenly declares that she knows what’s wrong with Marlena.

Sarah runs in to Xander outside the Brady Pub. Xander asks if Victoria slept okay. Sarah says she did very well and thanks him for letting her stay an extra night. Sarah says Victoria is with the nanny now as she just got off work and is on her way to go check on her. Xander sends his love and then informs Sarah that he saw her with Brady last night in each other’s arms.

Julie tells Chad that she’s not going to buy a bookstore at this stage of her life. Chad asks why not, arguing that she’s ran a successful business before. Julie says she’s retired now. Chad brings up Julie always talking about how bored she is. Chad talks about how much Julie loves books and says it seems like a perfect opportunity. Chad asks if Julie is sure she wants to be retired and tells her to just think about it. Chad hugs Julie and says he’ll see her at home as he exits the hospital.

EJ tells Johnny that he had every right to be furious with him after learning what he did to Sami. Johnny doesn’t want to rehash it and says that Sami obviously was able to forgive him, so he’s determined to do the same. EJ says that grace is far more than he deserves. EJ recalls when he woke up from his coma and feeling like a changed man, who could start over and do some good in the world. EJ declares that if he’s going to defend Johnny, he needs to revert to his old ways and be ruthless, much more than he already has been. EJ wants Johnny know that whatever strategy or tactic he uses, it is not about hurting another person and is all about protecting him. EJ declares that anything he does is because he loves him with his whole heart. Johnny says he knows and he’s so grateful that EJ is on his side. Johnny says he loves him too as they hug.

Marlena tells Susan that she’s not in the mood for this right now. Susan says she needs her to listen. Susan brings up Marlena’s blood and wishes she could see what it was. Susan talks about caring so much about Marlena and wanting her to feel better. Susan feels awful that she can’t figure out what’s plaguing her but she wishes she could. Marlena says she does too.

Rafe tells Cat that she’s a quick study and that he’s impressed. Cat jokes about being ready to take on the bad guys. Rafe says they’ll have a few more lessons, but as long as she is his partner, he will protect her with his life.

Gabi goes home and gets a call from Tony. Gabi assures that she’s on it as she and Xander are having dinner tonight where she is going to work him and find out everything Tony wants to know.

Sarah tells Xander that she was hugging Brady goodnight. Xander remarks on Sarah not waiting until the ink is dry on their separation before moving on with his nephew. Sarah argues that Brady bought her a friendly drink and that might be a foreign concept to him, but one person can just be nice to another person without sex being involved. Xander feels she’s being defensive. Sarah tells him to get over himself and remarks that she sure has as she storms off.

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GH Short Recap Wednesday, August 6, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Tracy persuades Brook Lynn, Lucy, and Maxie not to go to the police with information about Sonny’s financial investment in Deception.

Jason persuades Lisel not to make Rocco choose between her and his parents. Jason also tells Lisel to tell Rocco the truth about what happened when he was born.

Chase talks to Michael and tries to persuade him to let her see Wiley and Amelia. Michael tells Chase he doesn’t know all the reasons why he needs to protect his kids from Willow. Chase tells Michael that he is hurting Wiley and Amelia by not letting them see their mother.

Laura persuades Dante to let Rocco talk to Lisel and get both sides of the story about his birth. Carly persuades Lulu to let Rocco talk to Lisel.

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Y&R Short Recap Thursday, August 7, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Victor wants Lily to pretend to be in love with Cane to see if she can find out what his plan is for Genoa City. Lily has a long talk with Devon and then decides to do as Victor asks because she thinks it is a good idea.

Adam tells Claire and Kyle that he can’t sell them his apartment because he doesn’t want to ruin his relationship with Victor. Victor later tells Adam that he is going to team up with Cane so Cane can take down the Abbotts for him.

Audra tells Claire that Kyle came on to her in Nice and Kyle wonders if Claire believes what Audra told her.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, August 6, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Sophia went to Melinda’s office, but Melinda wasn’t there. Tate called Sophia to ask her for the adoptive parents’ address since Rachel bought a gift for the baby. Sophia said she didn’t have the address, but she would reach out to her lawyer. When Melinda showed up, Sophia told her about Sarah snooping around. Melinda didn’t think Sarah would figure out that Sophia was lying. She told Sophia that it was okay because Sarah couldn’t say anything because of HIPPA. Sophia was upset about the lie, but Melinda told her she would handle it. Tate ran into Belle at the town square. Belle said she was staying away until Sami left. Tate didn’t see why Sami would be mad that she was prosecuting Johnny since she was forced into it. Belle said Sami didn’t always act rationally. She said she had to get through it for the greater good. It occurred to Tate that he should do the same thing about the baby. He thought he should be concerned about how Sophia was doing.

At the Bistro, Paulina was nervous about testifying at Johnny’s trial. She wasn’t sure how she would live with herself if Johnny was wrongly convicted. The Attorney General called and said he would be watching the trial carefully. He said someone from the office would be in court and said Belle would be disbarred if she screwed up the case. EJ got Johnny ready for court. Johnny said he didn’t like the idea, but EJ said he knew what was best. Johnny told him to go easy on Paulina. They talked about John and Sami. When they got to the courthouse, Paulina was there. Paulina wished Johnny luck. She wanted to talk to EJ, but he told her it was inappropriate since she was a witness for Belle. Paulina told him that she was also the mayor. She told him to back off Belle. EJ said he would and went into the courtroom. When Belle showed up, Paulina said she had something to tell her. In the courtroom, Belle questioned Paulina on the stand. Belle asked Paulina about Johnny’s anger towards EJ. She asked Paulina about Johnny refusing to see EJ at the hospital when he was shot. Paulina said Johnny thought EJ got what he deserved. Belle continued questioning Paulina. It was EJ’s turn to question Paulina. EJ asked if Paulina was upset with him. He asked if she thought Johnny was innocent. Paulina said she did. Belle asked Gabi about going to the mansion and hearing Johnny and EJ arguing on the night of the shooting. The people in the courtroom were shocked when Gabi said she heard EJ telling Johnny to put the gun down. Gabi said she saw Ava leaving the mansion. EJ asked Gabi about the gun she had the night of the shooting. While he was questioning Gabi, she admitted that she might have misidentified the person talking to EJ. He got her to admit that Ava could have came back to the mansion. When EJ grilled Gabi, Belle asked for the judge to get him to stop badgering her. The judge decided to call for a break. Tate ran into Sophia and apologized for the way he has been treating her. He asked how she was doing. Sophia said she was fine. While they were talking, he asked her questions about the parents. Sophia said they had to live with what happened. Tate said he couldn’t do that. He said he wanted to meet the parents and their daughter. Sophia said that would make things worse. She said the baby wasn’t his anymore. Tate said he wasn’t going to let it go. Sophia called Melinda and told her that Tate wanted to write a letter to the parents asking if he could meet the baby. Melinda said to tell him to write the letter and she would respond as the parents and tell him he couldn’t see the baby.

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BTG Short Recap Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Michele & Cheryl

Dani wanted Pamela to meet her at the club. She talked to her about Ashley being with Andre. Dani felt like Ashley should stay away from Andre. A man like Andre would destroy Ashley’s mind. Dani didn’t have a problem with Ashley. She just wanted her to stay away from Andre. Hayley had a cryptic conversation on the phone with someone. She wanted the person to keep what she said a secret. Caroline walked in the room while Hayley said to keep it a secret. She thought quickly and told her that it was a surprise for Bill’s birthday. Hayley managed to get Caroline to help with her plan. Dani and Pamela talked Bill and Hayley’s relationship. She told Pamela about Hayley being a golddigger when Hayley walked in the club. Dani and Hayley got into a heated argument. While they were arguing, Hayley grabbed her stomach and walked off. Dani said bad things about her, and the baby that didn’t exist. Pamela told her that she would never forgive herself if something happened to Hayley’s baby. Hayley walked back in the room bloody. She screamed that something was wrong with her baby. Ashley left a message for Naomi to meet her so they could talk about her date with Andre. After she hung up the phone, Andre showed up. Ashley broke up with him even though they weren’t technically a couple. She told him that he wasn’t the type of man to settle down, and they kissed each other. After they kissed, he said it was time for him to talk to Dani. Andre wanted something real. He believed he had a future with Ashley.

Derek and Shanice ran into each other at Orphey Gene’s. They had chemistry, but she didn’t want problems with Ashley at the hospital. Shanice felt she was too good to play games. She refused to be an afterthought. Derek admitted that he was wrong to ask her to go along with his plan. They agreed to start fresh. Bill was about to go to Atlanta when Naomi arrived. She asked him if he killed anyone lately. He tried to brush off her sarcastic comment, but it didn’t work. Bill admitted what actually happened. He said he would do anything to protect the people he loved. Bill believed he and Dani did a good job raising her if she couldn’t believe what he did. They talked about Hayley’s accident. She hated Hayley, but the baby was innocent. Later Naomi went to see Ashley. They talked Naomi wanted to put her career first. Naomi wasn’t interested in having babies. Speaking of babies, Naomi mentioned Hayley’s second ultrasound. She noticed the look on Ashely’s face when she mentioned it. Naomi demanded that she tell her what she knew.

 

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Days Update Monday, August 4, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Julie greets JJ in the living room of the Horton house, saying she can’t believe she slept so late. Julie asks if the kids are already at their Harry Potter camp but JJ reveals that Thomas and Charlotte are still sleeping. Julie questions if Chad overslept too but JJ admits he has no idea where Chad is.

Johnny and Chanel walk through the town square. Chanel talks about being glad that Sydney is on the mend and that Sami is able to come home to visit. Johnny says Sami won’t be able to stay long but it will be good to see her. Johnny brings up Sami also having a complicated relationship with EJ and Belle. Johnny hates that he gave Sami yet another thing to worry about with his trial. Felicity rushes up and tells Chanel that she has to help her because her sister Cat is missing.

Cat is asleep in the elevator until she wakes up in a panic. Chad tells her that she was dreaming but she’s okay.

Marlena comes out from her room to find Sami in the living room with tears in her eyes as they have a tearful embrace.

Johnny and Chanel sit with Felicity as Chanel questions Felicity about Cat missing. Felicity informs her that she never came home. Chanel asked when they last spoke. Felicity says it was yesterday before work and she hasn’t seen her since. Johnny and Chanel step aside. Johnny thinks they should call the police. Chanel tells him that she will handle this and he can go be with his mom. Chanel promises to call him if she finds anything out. Johnny walks away as Chanel tells Felicity that they should go to the police station to see if they can help find Cat.

Cat tells Chad that she just had the worst nightmare. Chad asks if she wants to talk about it but Cat says not really.

JJ calls Leo to ask him to let him know if Chad checks in with him. Julie says calling Chad is going straight to voicemail which is unlike him as he never turns his phone off and there’s no word from his assistant. Julie says she would say call the police, but JJ is the police. JJ assures that as soon as he gets to the police station, he will look in to it and they will find him. Julie tells JJ to keep in touch as he exits.

Sami tells Marlena that her plane landed early and she came straight to the house. Marlena cries that she missed her so much. Sami is sorry she wasn’t there to hold her hand while saying goodbye to John. Marlena assures that Sami is always in her and John’s hearts. Sami wishes she had done more, said more, called and visited more. Sami wishes she had thanked John for everything in her childhood. Marlena assures that he didn’t need her thanks and that he loved her. Sami cries that she didn’t deserve it because she was so mean to John all the time and she hated him for loving Marlena. Sami says she would blame John for everything that went wrong in her life and it was so unfair, but he was still always there for her, would help her when she was in trouble, and treated her like his daughter. Marlena assures that John felt she was his daughter and he adored her. Sami regrets not telling him enough how sorry she was and how bad she feels about everything she put him through. Sami breaks down crying about it being too late as she hugs Marlena. Marlena insists that John always knew how she felt and he wouldn’t want her to have any regrets. Marlena encourages Sami to picture John being there, telling his baseball stories. Sami talks about admiring how John always stayed calm and positive in all situations. Sami comments on John making her feel loved and respected. Marlena knows she had her issues but John never judged her and was always proud of her. Sami cries that she has to pull herself together because Johnny is going to be there in a few minutes. Sami says she’s supposed to be asking Marlena if she’s alright, but she comes here and is crying her eyes out. Marlena thinks they both needed to cry so she’s glad they are able to do it together. Marlena says everyone is moving on and getting back to their lives, so things are going to be quiet and she’s going to need to lean on Sami a bit. Sami assures that she’s always here for her. Johnny then arrives and embraces Sami, saying he’s so glad she’s there. Marlena says she will give them time to be alone and catch up while she catches up with work from the hospital. Marlena adds that she will want to hear stories from their walk down memory lane.

JJ goes to the police station as Chanel and Felicity arrive to tell him they need his help because Cat is missing.

Cat apologizes to Chad for scaring him. Chad says being trapped in an elevator takes the cake for scaring. Chad asks Cat again if she wants to tell him about her nightmare. Cat calls it a recurring dream about her accident. Cat realizes they’ve been there all night and that Felicity will be worried sick about her. Chad guesses Julie probably thinks something terrible happened. Cat decides that she’s changed her mind about sitting tight and takes her shoes off, declaring she’s getting them the hell out of here.

JJ questions Cat missing. Chanel explains that she apparently didn’t come home last night and hasn’t called or texted. JJ informs them that he and Julie just discovered that Chad is also missing. Chanel wonders if they could be together. JJ says he has to check in with his sergeant and then he will need them to tell him everything they know about the last time Cat was seen, what she was wearing, and what she said. JJ then steps out while Chanel promises Felicity that they are going to find Cat.

Julie goes to the hospital and runs in to Marlena, surprised that she’s back to work so soon. Marlena says she just came to see a few patients and she has an appointment with Sarah. Marlena asks if everything is alright with Julie. Julie says not at all as she reveals Chad is missing which Marlena questions. Julie explains that Chad was at the hospital yesterday to pick up a prescription for Charlotte and one of the nurses remembers seeing him, but no one has seen him since and his phone is going straight to voicemail. Julie then notices the out of order sign on the elevator and begins to wonder.

Cat is unsuccessful in her attempt to escape the elevator. Chad says it was worth a shot even though she told him yesterday it wouldn’t work. They joke that they are both going to need therapy when they get out. They get close as they talk about being cramped in this little elevator. They then begin hearing Julie knocking on the elevator and calling out to Chad. Chad calls back out that they are fine. Marlena asks if someone else is in there with him. Cat calls out to Marlena which upsets Julie. Marlena tells Cat to hang in there and they will get them out while Julie shouts for Cat to keep her hands off Abigail’s husband in the meantime.

Sami asks Johnny how he’s doing. Johnny says he’s a lot better than last time she was in town and repeats that he’s so glad she’s here. Johnny adds that he doesn’t expect her to be at his trial as it would be too much for her to be in the court house, just a few feet from EJ and it would make him worry. Sami says it’s actually great that EJ is defending him as he will help and she’s really glad that Johnny found a way to get past his anger towards EJ and forgive him. Johnny feels it’s what John would’ve wanted despite all the horrible things that EJ did to him over the years. Sami recalls thinking John was dead when she named him John Roman, but then he got to meet him and he was really proud that Johnny was his namesake. Sami is glad that Johnny got to have so many years with John. Johnny wishes it could’ve been more as they tearfully embrace.

JJ tells Chanel and Felicity that he’s just waiting on the paperwork. JJ then gets a call from Julie. JJ informs Julie that he’s at the station with Felicity as her sister Cat is also missing. Julie then informs JJ of the news. JJ says that’s a relief and says that he will let them know. JJ hangs up and reveals to Felicity and Chanel that Chad and Cat were trapped in the hospital elevator all night and they are working on getting them out now. Chanel offers to take Felicity to the hospital so she can be the first person that Cat sees when she gets out. Chanel thanks JJ for his help. JJ says he didn’t really do anything as Chanel and Felicity exit the station.

Julie complains to Marlena about Chad being stuck in the elevator all night and how it could plunge at any second. Marlena feels Julie seems worried now than when she thought Chad was missing and asks if that has to do with Cat. Julie argues that where ever Chad goes, Cat follows him like a parasite. Julie feels Cat staged this on purpose which Marlena questions, reminding her that there have been problems with the elevator for days. Julie says maybe she didn’t do that but Cat has had her sights set on Chad. Marlena feels Cat doesn’t have romance on her mind. Julie says the same about Chad. Marlena brings up Julie shouting for Cat to keep her hands off Abigail’s husband. Marlena points out that Chad is no longer married to Abigail but Julie doesn’t see it that way. Julie feels the love that Chad and Abigail shared was something extraordinary, sacred, and eternal like she had with Doug and Marlena had with John. Julie declares that as far as she’s concerned, she will always be Doug’s wife, Marlena will always be John’s wife, and Chad will always be Abigail’s husband.

Cat stands back and tells Chad that she’s keeping a distance between them for when the doors open since Julie will be right there and not happy to see them together. Chad argues that Julie won’t blame Cat as it would be crazy to think she orchestrated the whole thing. Cat calls the whole situation crazy but they admit they didn’t mind.

Johnny tells Sami that he’d love to stay and talk with her but he has to get ready for court. Sami says she loves him and hugs him. Sami says to tell EJ to take care of him. Johnny assures it will be okay as he exits. Sami goes to the photos of John on the mantle and talks about how grateful she is for how John loved Marlena and their whole family. Sami adds that John wasn’t afraid to show his kids tough love when he needed to and she knows she needed it the most. Sami says she appreciates that now along with John’s kindness and big heart. Sami apologizes for blaming John for her unhappiness and insecurities as she knows it wasn’t fair. Sami wishes she had said this to him before but she thought he would always be there and that she had plenty of time. Sami cries that it’s not fair and thanks John for showing her how to be strong and brave. Sami calls John a big part of who she is as she flashes back to a past time with John. Sami cries that she would give anything for one more hug from John.

Marlena tells Julie that after the loss of Doug and John, she can’t imagine finding a way to go on without him and she knows Julie feels the same, but they will find a way and find comfort in their memories. Julie asks what her point is. Marlena brings up that Julie said Chad will always be Abigail’s husband but that isn’t true because they didn’t have a long time together and their marriage was cut tragically short. Marlena can’t imagine Julie doesn’t want Chad to love again as that would be a double tragedy. Julie assures that she wants Chad to live his life with someone wonderful who makes him happy but argues that someone is not Cat Green. Chanel and Felicity come over to ask if there any updates and if Cat is okay. Marlena says she’ll be just fine. Julie assures they will come right out of the elevator any minute now. Chanel explains that Felicity is finding it hard to believe that Cat was stuck in the elevator, but she also didn’t think Cat was working yesterday. Marlena confirms she wasn’t scheduled to work..

Cat and Chad jokingly move closer and then end up in each others’ arms when the elevator jolts.

The maintenance man tells Felicity, Marlena, and Julie that they are working on the elevator and should have them out soon. Chad and Cat are then heard yelling for help so Julie questions what is happening now.

Johnny meets Chanel in the town square and says he got her text that she found Cat. She reveals that Cat and Chad were stuck in an elevator at the hospital all night. Johnny asks if they are okay. Chanel says she guesses so as they were apparently stuck between two floors and a repairman is trying to get them out now. Chanel adds that she would’ve stayed but she had to get back to work, adding that Felicity stayed with Marlena and Julie. Johnny says it sounds like she’s in good hands. Chanel asks if he had a nice visit with his mom. Johnny confirms it was great and says they talked about forgiveness and what a wonderful man John was and how lucky they were to have him in their lives as Chanel hugs Johnny.

Sami holds onto a photo of John and recalls when she was so upset after Franco was murdered and John promised to be there for Marlena and take care of her which he did as she flashes back to that time in their lives. Sami declares that now it’s her turn and that John can rest easy, knowing they are all here to take care of Marlena for him. Sami wants John to know that he will always live in her heart and that’s a fact.

Julie questions what’s happening now. Marlena guesses they will find out soon enough and encourages Felicity that they will get everybody out. The repairman then gets the elevator open, revealing Chad and Cat holding each other. The repairman remarks that they just can’t stop taking a plunge together as Felicity watches with a smile but Julie looks on in anger.

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Days Update Friday, August 1, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

EJ is at home in the living room of the DiMera Mansion and calls his daughter Sydney, leaving a message that he just wanted to check on her recovery after her fall. EJ hangs up and looks over at the portrait of Stefano on the wall. Gwen walks in and remarks that she hears EJ might actually be able to speak to Stefano in person rather than staring at his portrait. EJ guesses she’s been talking to Susan. Gwen confirms that she ran in to her earlier and she didn’t realize that communicating with the dead was part of her skillset. EJ says that Susan is training to be a medium. EJ warns Gwen that if Stefano is alive, he would not be happy to find out she’s living in the house based on a sham marriage to a long lost cousin. Gwen responds that something tells her she’ll be just fine.

Marlena sits at home and begins daydreaming about Stefano making her his Queen of the Night. She looks over at photos of John on the mantle when Brady comes home with Rachel from the movies. They talk about how much they enjoyed it. Rachel wishes Marlena could’ve seen it too and asks if she’s feeling better. Marlena says she is now that she’s home as Rachel hugs her.

As Xander attempts to leave the hospital through the elevator, he complains about it taking forever. Sarah mentions having problems with it lately. Xander figures it would be quicker to take the stairs at this point. Xander offers to carry the stroller if Sarah takes Victoria but Sarah decides she will just wait for the elevator. Xander says goodnight to Victoria then and that he loves her very much.

Chad complains that none of the buttons on the elevator are working while Cat can’t get reception on her phone. Chad tries screaming for help to no avail. Chad says he doesn’t do well in small spaces so they need to get out of here. Chad tries to encourage staying calm and being patient until someone comes to rescue them, but Cat says she wouldn’t count on it.

Brady asks if Marlena was able to get some rest. She says she got a little bit. Marlena suggests she and Rachel have a girls night which Rachel says sounds great. Brady says he will see them in a little while then and exits. Rachel asks Marlena why she wanted to get rid of Brady. Marlena admits she wanted to talk to Rachel alone about something very important.

Sarah calls EJ to inform him that they have an issue at the hospital that needs to be fixed immediately as one of the elevators hasn’t been working properly and even though Kayla has called the repair company, no one has come to fix it. EJ questions what she expects him to do about it. Sarah says it’s his hospital so it’s his responsibility to make sure everything is working in a safe manner. EJ tells Sarah that he’ll have someone come look at it tomorrow morning. Sarah asks what to do in the meantime. EJ suggests using another elevator or just taking the stairs to get some exercise. Sarah argues that there are people in wheelchairs that can’t take the stairs. EJ assures the elevator will be repaired first thing in the morning. Sarah calls him unbelievable and starts to say she almost wish Xander won the bid for the hospital. EJ tells her that ship has sailed, so she’s stuck with him.

Chad questions Cat saying she doesn’t think anyone is going to rescue them. Cat says they will get out eventually, but visiting hours are over so fewer people are on the floor and the elevator has been having problems all week so she doesn’t think people will notice. Chad questions no one making the elevator top priority. Cat blames EJ’s budget cuts so Chad says he will talk to him. Cat says she would appreciate that but points out that it wouldn’t help their current situation. Chad argues that people will know they are gone or Felicity will suspect something isn’t right when Cat doesn’t go home. Cat notes that Felicity is at the movies with her boyfriend, so she won’t be missed for hours. Cat suggests that they just wait.

EJ tells Sarah that he would appreciate any future complaints be made to his office and repeats that he will have the elevator fixed in the morning as he hangs up. Rita then walks in and tells EJ that she did warn him that nickel and diming the hospital would cause a revolt. EJ reminds Rita that it was her idea to terminate the yoga and wellness program which he’s heard complaints about all day. Rita says she’ll deal with them but the elevator problem is totally on EJ for canceling the maintenance program. EJ asks if there’s a reason Rita came to see him. Rita presents him with the latest budget reports and highlighted some of the important figures he might want to keep an eye on. Rita asks if there’s anything else she can do for him. EJ responds that he does have a question about his father. Rita admits that she does dream about Stefano often and she misses his wit and his grin. Rita adds that she feels the presence of Stefano in the room strongly. EJ then asks if Rita believes Stefano is really and truly gone.

Chad tries to find a way to escape the elevator but can’t. Cat sits down while Chad questions her calm behavior and asks if she’s been in this situation before. Cat responds that it’s not her first rodeo. Chad jokes that he’s not getting on an elevator with her anymore as she’s bad luck. Cat laughs off Chad being dramatic. Chad sits with Cat and decides he will stay calm and positive. Cat jokes that if they did plummet to their death, it’s kind of like skydiving.

Xander goes to the Bistro for dinner. Gwen approaches and questions him eating alone. Xander remarks that it’s better than drinking alone. Gwen thinks doing anything alone is not that exciting so she decides to join him, though Xander suggests she not join him.

Sarah walks through the town square with Victoria and stops to catch her breath. Brady approaches and asks if she’s okay. Sarah explains that she just carried Victoria down six flights of stairs at the hospital because the elevator was broken. Brady questions why she didn’t use another elevator or ask for help. Sarah admits she wanted to prove a point to herself that she’s a very self-reliant and capable of woman who can take care of Victoria on her own, but she proved that she’s stupid and stubborn, joking that she had a lot of time to contemplate her life choices as she went through six long flights of stairs.

Rachel guesses that Marlena wants to talk about Johnny’s trial, complaining that it’s all anyone is talking about. Marlena knows she’s upset about having to testify in court and that Kristen and Brady told her she needs to tell the truth. Marlena declares that she’s here to also tell her it’s very important to tell the truth. Rachel responds that EJ wants her to lie. Marlena ask what he said. Rachel says he didn’t say anything but hinted at it. Rachel asks if she shouldn’t listen to EJ since she does have to tell the truth.

Rita tells EJ that of course his father is dead and asks why he would ask that. EJ explains that Susan claims that she can sense his presence and that he’s still alive. EJ points out that they never did actually find the body. Rita says she can only tell him what Dr. Rolf told her which is that Stefano did survive Hope shooting him, only to die years later while in hiding. EJ does find it strange that Stefano never said goodbye or came home. Rita questions if EJ really believes this is true. EJ says of course not and that he’s sure Susan just got her wires crossed so there’s nothing more to it.

Gwen questions Xander’s mood. Xander blames Gwen interrupting his lovely solitary meal. Gwen assumes he’s having lots of solitary meals lately so she thought this was a chance to shake things up a bit. Xander talks about enjoying every moment with his daughter lately. Gwen asks if he means instead of the moments he’s currently spending with her.

Sarah and Brady sit together in the town square. Sarah brings up not being able to go to Bermuda because of Xander, but says she doesn’t want to bore Brady with the details of her failed marriage. Brady reminds her that if she needs to vent, he’s her guy and that he’s not going to cast judgment. Sarah admits she shouldn’t be complaining since Xander did something very nice today and brought Victoria to her a day early because she was asking for her which Brady calls shocking. Sarah and Brady agree that co-parenting with someone you’re fighting with all the time sucks.

Marlena assures Rachel that it’s very important she tell the truth about what she saw on the night that EJ was shot. Rachel says that’s what Brady told her too but she loves Johnny and doesn’t want to see him go to prison. Marlena says the best thing she can do to help is tell the truth and then the grown ups will handle it. Marlena assures that they won’t let Johnny go to prison.

Rita tells EJ that she understands why he’d like to believe his father was alive because of how much they cared for each other. EJ acknowledges that he never got a chance to say goodbye. Rita says that Dr. Rolf was a miracle worker, but everyone has to die, even the great Stefano DiMera. EJ admits he still misses him every day. Rita says she does as well. EJ calls Rita his right hand woman who knew where the bodies were buried.

Cat asks Chad how the trial went for him. Chad says that EJ actually thanked him for what he said on the stand. Cat remembers how devastated Chad was when EJ was shot. Chad adds that after the trial, EJ called him over to the house to thank him and says she would not believe the scene he walked in on. Chad explains that Susan Banks believes she’s a psychic and is training to become a medium, so she was sensing Stefano’s presence and thinks he’s still alive. Cat asks if Chad thinks that could be true.

Gwen assumes Xander is not enjoying his time with her and says she’s a bit surprised because she thought they were on good terms and brings up the other night until he ditched her. Gwen tells Xander that Leo did see them going in to the Salem Inn together. Xander guesses Sarah doesn’t give a damn what he does these days since they will be legally separated tomorrow when the papers are filed. Gwen says she’s sorry to hear that which Xander questions. Gwen states that she’s not completely heartless. Gwen thinks Xander’s problem is that he’s always trying to change himself for Sarah when he knows he’ll never be good enough for her. Gwen thinks his whole good boy act is not him and she much prefers the moody Xander as being more fun.

Brady assures Sarah that he understands the struggles of shared custody. Sarah brings up Brady saying he regretted the war that he and Kristen waged over Rachel, so she doesn’t want to repeat those mistakes with Victoria. Brady is glad because he thinks the fallout of his war with Kristen affects Rachel every day. Sarah praises Rachel’s qualities and jokes that she wouldn’t credit Kristen. Brady credits Marlena, Belle, and the rest of the family including Sarah as influences. Brady reminds Sarah that she raised Rachel for the first year of her life, giving her love and security. Brady calls it sad but best that was the most stable year of her life. Sarah thanks him for saying that, but asks if things are getting better for her. Brady states that he and Kristen are on the same page and Rachel’s appointments have been helpful as long as her time with Marlena. Brady jokes that he was kicked out of the house so they could have girl talk.

Rachel mentions that Brady and EJ both say that Johnny is innocent. Marlena adds that she believes that as well. Rachel brings up seeing Johnny with the gun while Marlena points out that she didn’t see Johnny shoot EJ. Rachel questions who did it if Johnny didn’t. Marlena says they don’t know that yet which is why she wanted to ask her if she remembers anything else from that night that she hasn’t told anybody yet, like if anyone else came to the house that night. Marlena tells her to take her time and really think about it. Rachel responds that she’s sorry but swears she doesn’t remember anything else. Marlena says it’s okay and she believes her. Marlena is just so sorry she has to go through this ordeal, but encourages that it will all turn out okay. Marlena tells Rachel that she loves her so much as they hug.

Chad tells Cat that Stefano’s nickname was the Phoenix because he had a habit of rising from the ashes when everybody thought he was gone, but says this time there’s no way he’s alive. Cat asks how he can be sure. Chad responds that Stefano had his issues but one of his biggest redeeming qualities was how much he loved his family so there’s no way he wouldn’t reach out to them. Cat asks if they were close. Chad says they had their moments and mentions not knowing Stefano was his father until he was a teenager. Chad feels they didn’t have nearly enough time together before he died, unlike EJ who Stefano raised as his own which is probably why EJ is so much like him. Cat says based on everything she’s read on Stefano, it seems he was quite the criminal mastermind and asks if EJ shared that too. Chad says he doesn’t know about that. Cat brings up EJ being shot by Clyde Weston when running drugs for him. Chad hopes that EJ learned his lesson.

EJ thanks Rita for the reality check and the budget report. Rita adds that she’s no fan of excess waste, she does think EJ is pinching more pennies than he needs on the hospital. Rita says profits are up so he could loosen the purse strings a bit. EJ responds that those extra pennies will come in handy soon as he has grand plans. Rita asks if he wants to share his plans.

Sarah tells Brady that she hopes things with her and Xander will be better now that they’ve signed the separation papers. Brady feels they are being awfully sensible about the whole thing. Sarah asks if there’s something wrong with that. Brady says not at all but Sarah did admit that she still loves Xander which makes him wonder if there’s something up with this whole facade. Sarah acknowledges that Brady’s not wrong. Sarah brings up that next week would be her and Xander’s one year wedding anniversary. Sarah says they were so happy then compared to now. Sarah adds that a few months ago, they were talking about having a second child. Sarah says a house full of kids is all she ever wanted but guesses it wasn’t meant to be.

Gwen argues that Xander has to admit that they had a lot of fun being bad together. Gwen says maybe he and Sarah weren’t meant to be together and calls it a shame seeing Xander being sad all the time as it’s not the Xander she knows. Xander says he’ll spare them any more torture and be on his way as he then walks out of the Bistro, leaving Gwen frustrated.

Chad suggests he and Cat play Never Have I Ever. Cat doesn’t know if she could come up with anything that could shock Chad. Chad is sure she could and tells Cat to go first. Cat says she once pushed her brother Mark on a swing until he fell off and got a concussion. Chad reveals that he once faked a brain tumor to get a guy to break up with Abigail, blaming it on being young, dumb, and in love. Cat says she snuck backstage at a NSYNC concert to try to meet Justin Timberlake but she got kicked out. Chad reveals that he once won a drag queen contest which Cat wishes there was a video of. Cat decides she can’t top that and Chad wins.

EJ tells Rita that it’s not that he doesn’t trust her but all will be revealed in time. Rita hopes that whatever his plans are include repairing the hospital elevator to avoid a lawsuit. EJ then gets a call back from his daughter Sydney.

Chad tries yelling for help again but it doesn’t work. Cat gives Chad some water and finds some mints but she only has one left so they joke about who should take it. It ends up falling on the floor and Chad takes it while Cat admits she’s glad she isn’t stuck in the elevator alone.

Rachel worries to Marlena about her Grandma Rachel since EJ said something might happen to her if she tells anyone what she saw. Marlena promises nothing is going to happen to her and declares she won’t let anybody hurt anybody she cares about again. Marlena then gets a call and says she can’t believe it.

Cat comments to Chad that they have been in the elevator for over an hour. Chad says it feels like an eternity. Cat decides she will try to rest her eyes. Chad questions her taking a nap when they are trapped like this. Cat suggests he try it too to help pass the time. Chad argues that he can’t sleep like this. Cat says her only problem is it’s a little cold in there, so Chad gives her his jacket.

Sarah tells Brady that she should get Victoria home. Brady apologizes as he didn’t mean to suggest she should give up on her marriage to Xander, feeling they could work things out. Sarah doubts that would happen and understands Brady was trying to be helpful because he’s such a great friend. Sarah and Brady hug right as Xander and Gwen come out from the Bistro and see them together.

EJ tells Sydney that he’s sorry she’s still in pain from her surgery but he hopes her doctors and Sami are taking good care of her. EJ tells Sydney that’s a surprise as he hangs up. EJ then informs Rita that Sydney gave him some interesting news about Sami.

Marlena says that means so much to her and she can’t wait to see her as she hangs up. Rachel asks who was on the phone. Marlena reveals it was Sami and announces she’s coming home tomorrow.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, August 5, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Chad overheard Julie badmouthing Cat and wanted her to stop doing it. He refused to change his mind about Cat. Julie wouldn’t do it either. Chad reminded her that he’s an adult and wanted her to keep her thoughts to herself. His demeanor came off strong because Julie started crying. She apologized and told Chad that he meant the world to her. Spending time with his kids was the best thing for her right now. She enjoyed spending time at the bookstore. Julie hinted that he buy the bookstore. The kids would love it. Chad thought the book business was shrinking. Julie thought it would be great to teach the kids about the joys of reading. Chad agreed with her but thought she should buy the bookstore. Julie had reasons not to buy it.  Sarah told Marlena that her test results came back negative. They didn’t show anything wrong with her. She said nothing was wrong. Marlena felt like Susan’s premonition was a problem. She told Sarah that she found a therapist and had a great conversation with Sami. Marlena shifted the conversation to Sarah and Xander. Sarah did tell her some of her story until she decided to talk about Marlena’s condition again. She was determined to find answers for her. Sarah told Marlena that she reminded her of both her fathers. At the mention of Neil and Mickey, Sarah started crying because she was still raw from losing her daughter. She let Marlena know that there are theories about her condition. Johnny went to the DiMera mansion and saw Susan. Susan wasn’t happy to hear that Sami was in town. It didn’t help that Sami wasn’t going to be at the courthouse. She was there for one day. Johnny defended his mother to Susan. EJ heard them talking and tried to defend Sami. Susan wasn’t having it and went off about her. She said that Sami had good parents and now Marlena went to the dark side. EJ wanted to talk to his mother alone so he sent Johnny off to get legal documents. After Johnny left, EJ wanted an explanation from his mother. Susan told him that things weren’t vibing with Marlena. He told her that she was mourning. EJ wanted her to use her powers to find his shooter Susan left the mansion.

Xander wanted to know why Gabi wanted to meet with him for lunch. Once she heard that he and Sarah were separated, she wanted to do something to make him feel better. He agreed to dinner with her, but he received an upsetting call. Gabi wanted to know what happened. Somebody filed a FOIA request on the takeover of DiMera Enterprise. Gabi didn’t understand the problem. Xander didn’t want to answer her question and wanted her to leave. Susan ran into Marlena and apologized for the things she said about her. She didn’t feel right and realized what was wrong with Marlena. Susan told Marlena that it was something blood draining which made her uncomfortable. Marlena wanted to leave. Xander ran into Sarah at the square. Things got awkward when he told her that he saw her hugging Brady. Sarah told him that people could hug without it leading to anything. She snapped at him to get over himself.

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BTG Short Recap Tuesday, August 5, 2025

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

When Hayley wanted to give Bill breakfast, she fell over a box. Bill wanted to take her to the hospital, but Hayley was determined not to go. He said he was making an appointment for her and wanted to be there with her. Bill also said he was going to be there for the ultrasound. Ted ripped into Doug for almost messing up a surgery. He told Doug that there could be a malpractice suit. Doug told him that he couldn’t fire him because he quit. Ted tried to convince Doug to stay at the hospital. Doug threw up in Ted’s face that Nicole kicked him out of the house. Nicole overheard Vanessa talking to her accountant. While Vanessa was talking, Joey’s name came up. Nicole wanted to know what was going on between Vanessa and Joey.

When Nicole left, Doug called Vanessa and said he would be the king of laundering if she was going to be the queen. He said he would do it by using what he knew about Joey. Vanessa left to meet Joey. He told her that he bugged Doug’s car and knew everything. Joey said he found out that Doug thought he was going to blackmail him  and that she was lying to him. Vanessa said she would keep her husband in line. They ended up kissing. Nicole met up with Carlton. They talked about the concert as well as their fears. Carlton made Nicole laugh. While they were talking, Ted showed up to make sure Nicole was okay after what happened with Leslie. Nicole let him know she was okay.

 

 

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Days Short Recap Monday, August 4, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

While Chanel and Johnny were in the town square, Felicity came up them and told them Cat was missing. Chanel told Johnny to be with his mother and took Felicity to the police station. At the Horton House, Julie and JJ didn’t know where Chad was. JJ went to the police station and wanted to put out a B.O.L.O. for Chad. Chanel and Felicity showed up to tell him that Cat was missing. JJ assumed Chad and Cat were together. Marlena and Sami reunited. Sami apologized for not making it home to say goodbye. Marlena was appreciative that she was there now. Sami was upset with herself for not visiting enough or thanking John enough. She was also sorry that she treated John the way she did. Sami said he treated her like a daughter. Marlena said he thought of Sami like a daughter. Sami was upset that it was too late to make it right. Marlena let Sami know that John knew how she felt. They talked about John and how he loved Sami and was proud of her. While they were talking, Sami said she would be there for her. Johnny showed up and reunited with his mother. Marlena left to give them space.

Johnny told Sami that he didn’t expect her to be at his trial since EJ was defending him. While they were talking, they talked about John. After they finished talking, Johnny told her he had to get ready for court. When Sami was alone, she talked to John’s picture. She thanked him for making her who she was. There was a flashback of John supporting Sami when she was marrying Lucas. Marlena and Julie ran into each other at the hospital. Julie told her what was going on with Chad. When she noticed the out of order sign on the elevator, she figured out what was going on. Cat woke up in the elevator after having a nightmare. She told him she was having recurring dreams about the car accident. Cat decided she wanted to get out of the elevator and decided to climb out. Her plan didn’t work. Julie knocked above the elevator and called out to them. Chad and Cat were able to hear her. Later on, Julie talked to Marlena about Cat. She told Marlena that Chad and Abby’s love was eternal like her love for Doug and Marlena’s love for John. Julie said Chad was Abby’s husband. Marlena told Julie that Chad should fall in love again. Julie wanted Chad to fall in love again with someone like Cat. Sami talked to John’s picture again. There was a flashback of John visiting Sami in prison. She promised John that everyone would take care of Marlena.

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BTG Short Recap Monday, August 4, 2025

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Recap written by Michele & Cheryl

Anita talked to the audience about the Articulettes. She did a tribute to Barbara with help from Andre. Dani shocked everyone when she kissed him in front of everyone. The crowd went crazy. Sharon forgave Anita for everything. Anita, Sharon, and Tracy had an emotional moment on stage. After the show, Smitty let Martin and the kids know that he would try to make it to the party. Leslie crashed the afterparty with Eva in tow. Kat stopped them from getting inside the party. Eva wanted her mother to leave the party. Leslie finally agreed to leave but warned Eva that she could jump over any obstacle. Eva cut her off so she didn’t hear the rest of her threat. Nicole heard that the afterparty had crashers and headed to Orphey Gene’s. She approached Leslie while Eva asked her mother to dial back the drama with Nicole. Nicole argued with Leslie. Eva tried to keep the peace between the ladies. She said that her mother was a fan of the Articulettes. Nicole planned to get her an autographed vinyl copy of their album so she could shove it somewhere she wouldn’t like.

Smitty shocked everyone when he showed up for the afterparty. He let Anita know that he wasn’t ready to forgive her or Vernon yet. Smitty did understand that they did it because they loved Martin. He saw Martin, and they had a conversation. It didn’t really help things between them. Chelsea wasn’t sure what to call Andre now that he’s with her mother. She warned him not to hurt her mother. He was spared when Madison showed up for the afterparty. Madison was starstruck when she met Anita. Anita gave her blessing to their relationship. Dani wanted Andre to take her home from the party. Samantha and Tyrell had a strange conversation which leads to them possibly being June’s children. They never want to take their fathers for granted. Jim (Anita’s manager) wanted Anita to pursue her career, but she wasn’t interested. She wanted to stay home and asked him to focus on Sharon and Tracy’s careers.

 

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GH Short Recap Tuesday, August 5, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Curtis tells Portia that Drew has called a truce with them. Curtis tells Portia that he still loves her and wants to try and repair their marriage.

Michael tells Dante that he thinks Willow is the person targeting Daisy but he doesn’t have any proof because all his evidence is circumstantial, so he doesn’t want Dante to start an official inquiry yet.

Jens Siddwell and Marco advise Tracy not to give Deception’s finical records to the police because, once forensic accountants go through the records, everything becomes a matter of public record and customers may not want to buy cosmetics from Deception. Tracy tells Jens that she doesn’t want to take any advice from him.

Jack tells Anna that Henry Dalton is researching cold fusion and if that research gets into the wrong hands it could be very dangerous. Anna tells Jack that, if something happens to Josslynn during this operation, Carly will be very upset with him.

Jason tells Sonny that Britt is alive, and he knows where she is but he isn’t going to look for her because she faked her death so she would be left alone and he intends to honor her wishes.

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Y&R Short Recap Wednesday, August 6, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Audra asks Victor for another chance to break up Kyle and Claire, but he tells her that she failed and she has to pay him back the money he gave her.

Kyle tells Claire that Victor hired Audra to break them up but he doesn’t tell her that he and Audra kissed.

Claire tells Kyle that she wants to talk to Adam about buying his apartment. Claire intends to show everyone that she is tougher than they think and her relationship will last.

Billy finally gets Jill to admit that she has known for quite a while that Cane was Aristotle Dumas. Billy decides to think about whether he wants to help Cane take over all the privately held companies in Genoa City. Cane tells Phyllis he hopes to persuade Billy to be part of his team because he wants to help Jill and Billy to reconcile.

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Days Update Thursday, July 31, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Steve and Kayla are making pizza together at home when Kayla notes that Steve isn’t as enthusiastic as usual and asks if something is wrong. Steve acknowledges that she always could read him like a book, so she asks what’s going on. Steve tells her it’s a case he’s working on and he’s stumbled on something that could affect Stephanie.

Stephanie goes home where she is surprised to see Alex is inside cooking, wearing an apron with his shirt off.

Rafe walks through the town square with Tesoro and runs in to Cat. Rafe says he’s glad he ran in to her because he’s meaning to contact her to thank her for everything she did for Holly and Arianna. Cat calls it just part of the job while Rafe says they are home safe because of her. Cat says she didn’t know Rafe had a baby. Rafe clarifies that he isn’t his and calls it a long story. Chad then walks up so Cat greets him.

At the hospital, Sarah runs in to Xander with Victoria. Sarah ask what he’s doing there and if something is wrong with Victoria.

At the DiMera Mansion, Susan remarks that some days EJ sounds just like Stefano. Susan then starts to panic about feeling Stefano’s presence and declares that he’s here. EJ questions what she’s saying. Susan shouts that Stefano DiMera is alive.

Chad apologizes for interrupting but Cat and Rafe say he’s not at all. Chad didn’t know they knew each other. Cat explains that she’s been in Salem for awhile now and they have crossed paths a few times. Rafe claims he dropped one of Tesoro’s toys and Cat was nice enough to pick it up. Cat thanks Chad again for picking up Felicity. Chad says he was happy to help and he hopes everything worked our with her work emergency. Cat says everything is good now and thanks him. Chad says he’s glad to hear it and then walks away. Cat tells Rafe that was close and worries about anyone finding out that she’s in the ISA or that Rafe is her partner. Rafe suggests not tempting fate but Cat says there is something she needs to talk to him about, just not here, so they walk away.

EJ tells Susan that she’s not making any sense. Susan says she doesn’t want it to be true either but insists that she feels Stefano’s presence. EJ argues that Stefano has been dead for nearly a decade and Susan’s never had this vibe that he was still alive, so he questions why now. Susan says that was before she became a medium.

Kayla questions Steve learning something in a case that could affect Stephanie. Steve says he can’t really get in to particulars, but his new client asked him to look in to a matter involving the Kiriakis family and he came across something disturbing. Kayla asks if it’s about Alex.

Alex hopes Stephanie is in the mood for Greek tacos. Stephanie calls this incredibly sweet and sexy and a perfect surprise to come home too. Alex is glad because the surprises don’t end there as they kiss.

Xander tells Sarah that nothing is wrong and Victoria is fine. Sarah questions what he’s doing there then. Xander informs her that Victoria had been very vocal about wanting to see her mom, so he thought he’d see if she wanted to take her for the night. Sarah is surprised and calls that very nice of him but notes that she thought he wasn’t going to bring her by until tomorrow. Xander repeats that Victoria wanted to see her tonight. Xander adds that if she’s still on the clock, he can wait there with Victoria. Sarah calls that very generous of him but also very unlike him to do without an ulterior motive so she questions what the catch is.

Stephanie asks Alex about his other surprise. Alex presents his tablet and reveals her manuscript is a real book and is at the printers as they speak. Stephanie looks it over and points out the passage that she told him about and says she thought he was having it removed.

Kayla asks Steve how bad it is. Steve says that’s to be determined. Kayla says that’s not very comforting. Steve reveals that several years ago, before Alex came back to Salem, he was arrested for a couple of crimes. Steve says the charges are not clear yet but his sources will get back to him on that soon. Steve states that all he knows is that Alex plead guilty to overwhelming evidence. Kayla asks if Alex’s family knows about this. Steve informs her that he spoke with Justin, who said Alex was young and stupid, got a slap on the wrist, and then straightened himself out. Kayla says that’s a good thing. Steve says maybe he shouldn’t have brought it up, but it upset him to hear this about Alex because it reminded him of someone else that Stephanie dated years ago who turned out to be bad news…

Xander asks Sarah if she’s heard of positive reinforcement. Sarah responds that she’s positive that he’s always up to something these days. Sarah says she’s just confused as she thought they agreed the nanny would handle the hand offs so they didn’t have to see each other. Xander says fine if that’s the way she wants it but Sarah stops him.

Cat tells Rafe that it must have been a shock to suddenly become a foster parent. Rafe responds that he’s had plenty of experience with all the children in his family. Cat calls him a natural as he seems like he’s done this before. Rafe says thankfully Javi and Leo have taken the lead on this. Rafe acknowledges that everyone is saying Leo has changed, including Chad who has to be a pretty good judge of character. Cat complains that Chad will realize she’s lying to him again and she hates doing that. Rafe points out that it’s for the greater good as they have to find out what EJ is up to with the hospital, noting that the ISA and FBI both think he’s up to something. Cat worries about investigating in public while Rafe points out that maybe it was a blessing in disguise as now Chad knows they know each other so if people see them together, they won’t think it’s weird. Cat says what she needs to talk to him about can’t be discussed in public as she has an issue with the case. Cat explains that her job at the hospital was an advantage for her in the case but since John died, Marlena has been out a lot so she’s been having to make up excuse after excuse to still show up there. Rafe admits he was worried about that. Rafe guesses Cat hasn’t found anything out yet there. Cat says just complaints about EJ being a terrible manager, budget cuts, and shortage of staff. Rafe says there is a chance EJ is just doing this to shake up the hospital plans, but that would be petty for EJ. Cat agrees as Rafe notes that EJ is not a patient man. Cat wonders what EJ is really up to.

EJ questions Cat saying she’s a medium and it not going against her faith. Cat explains that the website says her talents are a blessing from the lord that she uses to promote love, healing and peace. EJ jokes that he’s going to need more alcohol as he takes another drink. Cat says she is connecting with the spirit world and right now, she does not like the connection she is making one bit.

Rafe tells Cat that she’s come to the right place for a tutorial on all things DiMera. Cat knows he’s had some intense experiences with them through the years. Cat states that she knows Chad and she’s had run ins with EJ and Kristen, but asks about Tony. Rafe responds that Tony is one of the good DiMeras, unlike his twin brother Andre who was killed by Abigail when she was not in her right mind. Rafe says at least they know where he ended up unlike some of the DiMera siblings like Stefan and Megan who disappeared and Megan’s son Dimitri who they only recently learned about and seems to have vanished. Cat asks what about Stefano and asks if they are really sure he’s dead.

EJ suggests Susan could just feel a breeze from the air conditioner. Susan tells EJ not to tease her and argues that she’s never been wrong about these things before. Chad comes in and says he can come back but Susan says he’s just in time as she was just telling EJ that Stefano DiMera lives and that is very bad, so they need to do something about it.

Kayla guesses Steve is talking about Jeremy Horton. Steve talks about how Jeremy though pretty highly of himself until he and Bo found out that he had a criminal record. Kayla recalls Stephanie admitting that he got abusive with her but encourages that Alex isn’t Jeremy. Kayla doesn’t think Alex would ever lay a hand on Stephanie. Steve says he’s not saying he would but he wishes he never found out about this since he was never Alex’s biggest fan. Kayla knows he was warming up to him but points out that Justin said he straightened up his act. Steve points out that Jeremy swore to have changed too. Steve says on one hand, he feels Stephanie deserves to know so she can make up her own mind but on the other hand he feels it’s none of his damn business and he should drop it.

Alex assures Stephanie that he told Kate to remove the passage. Stephanie points out that she obviously didn’t and asks if Kate went rogue or something. Alex blames himself but Stephanie says she should’ve told Kate herself how important it was to her to have it cut. Alex assures he will straighten it out and have it cut now. Alex makes a call, saying it’s very important that he talk to Kate. Alex is put on hold but repeats to Stephanie that he’s going to make it right.

Xander tells Sarah that she made it clear he’s not welcome here. Sarah apologizes for questioning the very nice thing he’s done for her but she’s under a lot of stress. Xander guesses it’s more budget cuts from EJ. Sarah explains that she had a very long conversation with a patient about a very difficult decision they had to make as a parent. Xander is sorry if he touched a nerve. Sarah says it’s just that talking with her patient made her realize how lucky they are to be able to provide for Victoria. Xander brings up that they can no longer live with each other. Sarah responds that it may not seem like it and she might hate that she does at times, but admits she still loves Xander and she always will. Xander responds that he feels the same way.

Rafe tells Cat that he sees where she’s going but brings up how old Stefano would be now, so he doubts that he’s still among them. Cat brings up the fountain of youth serum and Stefano’s essence being contained in a microchip. Rafe points out that was all destroyed but admits that they wouldn’t know if there was a backup. Cat says she was looking for reassurance but now she’s got Rafe questioning things too. Rafe says he’s just saying to never count anything out in Salem, especially when it comes to the DiMeras. Cat decides she will go back to the hospital to poke around a bit more. They agree to meet back here at noon tomorrow. Cat tells Rafe that from what she’s learned of Stefano, she really hopes he is dead. Rafe says he does too, but there’s a reason that Stefano was known as The Phoenix, because he always found a way to rise from the ashes…

EJ tells Chad that Susan fancies herself as a medium now. Susan insists that she’s taking a course and everything. Chad asks if she talks to the dead. Susan responds that she does and she feels Stefano’s presence, not in a body but in soul. Susan decides she will excuse herself and go walk around to feel the energies. Chad guesses that’s not why EJ invited him over. EJ confirms that he wanted to talk to Chad about what happened at the trial and to thank him for what he said on the stand about their family. EJ says he’s sure it went a long way with the jury and it meant a lot to him. Chad responds that he just spoke the truth as he believes Johnny is a good kid, EJ is a good father and he loves him. EJ responds that he loves him too. EJ says all this talk about Stefano has got him thinking about how important family is and invites Chad to stay for dinner. Chad says that sounds nice but he has to get to the hospital and mentions complaining about the new hours. EJ says they had to cut back on costs. Chad tells EJ to wish Susan luck on her studies as he exits.

Steve asks Kayla if he should speak up or stay out of it. Kayla thinks Stephanie has a good head on her shoulders and she remembers Steve being a bad boy that nobody approved of with a checkered past. Steve admits that back in the day, he’s pretty sure he did worse things than Alex might have done. Kayla says it was nothing that wasn’t redeemable and she was lucky to meet him when she did, but their daughter has not been lucky in love. Steve says maybe because she was looking for a bad boy like him. Kayla encourages that Stephanie is happy now so she doesn’t want to rock the boat. Steve agrees to keep an eye on Alex and not say a word to Stephanie.

Alex finishes his call with Kate and informs Stephanie that the manuscript already went to print so there’s no fixing this problem unless they stop the whole run. Stephanie worries about it costing a fortune. Alex assures that she’s more important than any profit. Stephanie thanks him and admits she’s not thrilled about it but says it’s not the end of the world. Stephanie notes that particular passage had some history in it which Alex questions. Stephanie explains it was inspired by something that happened between her and an ex, so she didn’t want him to see it. Alex asks if her ex is a big romance novel guy. Stephanie says not that she knows of, so Alex encourages that she’s in the clear then and questions the odds of her ex picking up a copy of the book. Stephanie agrees and that he wouldn’t even know she wrote it. Alex assures that she has nothing to worry about but he does feel terrible about the mistake. Alex asks if she’s sure she’s okay with it. Stephanie guesses she will have to be.

Sarah acknowledges that she and Xander still love each other and says at least they still have that in common. Xander asks where that leaves them. Sarah hopes they are in a decent place because they have to move forward to do right by Victoria, which means being at peace with their decision to separate legally. Xander asks if that’s what she wants. Sarah responds that she thinks so. Xander then presents Sarah with an envelope from his attorney. Sarah sees it’s papers for their separation. Xander calls it pretty standard and says all she has to do is sign it.

Kayla asks Steve if he’s okay. Steve says he is thanks to her and doesn’t know what he would do without her. Kayla says he’ll never have to find out because she’s his forever. Kayla calls Steve a great dad and husband as they kiss.

Alex promises Stephanie has never had anything like the tacos he made for her. Stephanie jokes that they better be after his screw up. Alex suggests blaming Kate, but notes that Kate was wondering if Stephanie has any other books that she’s been working on. Stephanie thinks that’s premature, noting her first book isn’t even out yet. Alex points out that she didn’t say no. Stephanie admits she may have something but says it’s a completely different genre, revealing it’s more of a murder mystery.

Sarah guesses Xander did have an ulterior motive for bringing Victoria. Xander clarifies that he wasn’t going to mention it until she said she was at peace with their decision. Sarah admits everything seems to be in order and points out that Xander already signed everything. Sarah then signs the papers and hands them back to Xander, who says he will have them filed tomorrow and it will be official. Xander tells Victoria that he had the best time with her and he will see her in two days.

Chad goes to the hospital and runs in to Cat, who jokes about them running in to each other like this. Chad thought Cat had the day off work when he saw her in the town square with Rafe. Cat says she was just tying up loose ends for Marlena but says she’s glad that she ran in to Chad again since she wasn’t sure when she’d see him again since he didn’t pick Charlotte up from gymnastics. Chad says that JJ took the lead on that since he had to be in court for Johnny’s trial. Cat says she’s sure that wasn’t easy for him. Cat jokes about the DiMeras having lots of history with trials and issues with the law. Cat says she’s sure Chad has a million stories he could tell but Chad says there’s none he’d like to get in to as they walk away.

EJ complains that he wants Susan to identify his shooter and all she has done is scare away his brother. Susan responds that he did that himself when asking Chad to skew the trial coverage in his favor. EJ questions how she knew that. Susan responds that she’s still a psychic. EJ says he will get out of her hair if she will be alright by herself. Susan says she will be here trying to get in touch with her spirit guide.

Alex asks Stephanie if he can read her murder mystery. Stephanie jokes that she’d have to kill him if he did. Stephanie calls it a work in progress that she’s definitely not ready to share. Alex asks what else he’s going to do tonight then. Stephanie points out that they haven’t even had dinner yet. Stephanie adds that she’s sure there is something they can do together after dinner as they kiss.

Kayla and Steve continue kissing at home.

Chad and Cat get on the elevator at the hospital which gets jammed.

Xander watches on as Sarah asks Victoria if she’s ready to go home now.

Cat wonders what just happened and what’s going on as Chad realizes it looks like they are stuck in the elevator.

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Interview with Louise Sorel

TV Interview!

 

Louise Sorel - 2023 from her Facebook page

Interview with Louise Sorel of “Days of Our Lives” on Peacock by Suzanne 7/19/25

It was so great to speak with Louise! She’s such a legend in the theater and in daytime soaps. She worked for many years in primetime TV and movies as well.  She’s most known for playing Augusta Lockridge on the daytime soap “Santa Barbara” 1984-1991 and playing Vivian on “Days of Our Lives” since 1992 (off and on). She plays a great villain with a lot of humor and style.

She’s not only an outstanding actress, but she’s quiet beautiful. “Star Trek” had no shortage of beautiful guest stars, but she stood out in the third season episode “Requiem for Methuselah” as Rayna, the woman that Lazarus/Methuselah/Flint created to be his companion.  She made the mistake of falling in love with Captain Kirk (like so many women did) and couldn’t choose between them, which destroyed her.

Louise has a book coming out August 6th that is part memoir and part poetry. It sounds like a lot of fun. Pre-order it now!

You can hear the audio of our interview here, and the transcript is below. She was very entertaining as we walked down memory lane.

 

Suzanne:  Well, anyway, so you’ve got a book coming out in August. What made you decide to write it?

Louise: Well, actually what it is, is I’ve been journaling for years. I’ve had a rather odd and interesting life, and so I have all these journals and poems and observations and things, and friends of mine – once in a while I’d. say to a friend, “Oh, can I read you this?” And they say, “Oh, for God’s sakes, why aren’t you putting that somewhere?”

Suzanne: Right.

Louise: So, it just was in my head, and I thought, last September I went, all right, I have no excuses. So, I thought, maybe I could actually do that, because it feels productive, and I like to be productive. So, I found a brilliant editor who offered to – First of all, he was interested in the writing, which made me feel good. Some editors will say, “Are you kidding?” But he liked the work.  So, that’s how it happened, and I’m so thrilled with myself, because I can’t even believe – Even now, I can look at the book in my head and say, “Who did that?” I’m so impressed with myself for doing it, because I think a lot of people I know would like to do it, and they often they say, “Well, I’m so impressed that you did that, because I’ve always wanted to, and I just haven’t done it.” So, I encourage people to do that, if they want.

Suzanne: So, the title is, If There Were No Dogs: Musings and Mutterings. What does that mean?

Louise: Well, first of all, I’m a dog advocate. I’ve had nine to ten dogs in my life, and I can’t be without. I don’t understand – I mean, I do understand; a lot of people don’t, but for me, I would be bereft without a dog.

So, the title came from a poem I wrote, which is in the book. And it started out to be, the cover was Musings and Mutterings, and I was showing it to a PR person out in LA, who’s on Days; she’s sort of their person, and she saw the other title that I had, which was If There Were No Dogs, and she said, “I like that title better. I like that.”

I thought about it. So, I reversed it so, that it’s, If There Were No Dogs is the title, and of course the picture. The cover is with a dog. And then the Musings and Mutterings were sort of like a reference to what goes on in the book.

Suzanne: Okay, and how many dogs do you have right now?Nicolas Coster, Louise Sorel and her dog, 2019 (photo from her Facebook)

Louise: Oh, I only have one. I’m not in a position to – believe me, I would have a hundred if I could and every other animal on the planet.

Suzanne: There’s a lot of work and cost and everything.

Louise: Well, so are children, and so is life and everything else, so why not?

Suzanne: Right, right. I can’t handle more than one myself.

Louise: No, I only have one. At one point I did have two, briefly. I saved a Dobie and a little dog that I had, but I thought that Dobie deserved more than living in Westwood, Los Angeles. So, I found a farm for him that I thought he’d be happier. So, somebody took him, yeah, so he got freedom.

Suzanne: Right, but about two years ago I was walking my dog and another dog that was very skinny, it turned out to be a puppy, but it was a big puppy, came bouncing up next to us, very friendly, and followed us home. So, we kept that dog for about a week, tried to find a home for it, fattened it up because it was starving, took it to the vet and all that. It was a really sweet dog, really sweet dog.  And we fortunately found a sanctuary place that not only took it in and trained it to be a service dog for a retired firefighter in Los Angeles.

Louise: Oh, how fabulous.

Suzanne: Yeah, it turned out really well and she is thriving now. So, we get pictures of her once in a while.

Louise: Oh, that’s great. And your dog is wonderful.

Suzanne: Oh, thank you. She’s a sweetie. Everybody loves her.

Louise: What a great looking dog.

Suzanne: Thank you. Yeah, my husband calls her the star of the internet, but she’s not really, but…

Louise: Well, you know, I was going to – I have a thing. I’m thinking of doing. It’s a one-woman show, and it’s called My Life with Dogs and Other Men. [laughs] Which sort of made me laugh when I thought about it. And I visualized the opening of it, which just the opening alone I think would be worth it. I would have a stage, and it would be a cutout of every dog I’ve owned, every shape, size, color, done by an artist. And when people came into the theater, they’d all be barking. Then, I would come out on stage with a little wagon filled with all kinds of paraphernalia and memories and tell them all to be quiet, and one by one they would stop barking. I thought, I think that’s a great opening for a show, and then maybe that’ll be it, and then I’ll say, “Curtain!”

Suzanne: Where do the husbands come into it, though?

Louise: Oh, yeah, well, you know. Well, quite frankly, they’re dead. But it was just a thought. I think it could be a very funny entertainment. But at any rate.William Shatner (Captain Kirk) and Louise Sorel (Rayna) in "Star Trek" (photo from her Facebook)

Suzanne: So, yeah, I remember that you’ve done a lot of different movies and TV shows, but I remember you playing Rayna in the original Star Trek, and I was looking at your IMDb, and I see that you also co-starred with William Shatner, or [rather], guest-starred with William Shatner, in an episode of “Route 66,” and on his show “Barbary Coast” in the 70s, which I loved (that show). So, you worked with him quite frequently?

Louise: Yes, we got on well. You know, he was a horseman. So, I used to ride with him. He did horse shows out in the valley, Los Angeles, and I did some of that with him. We just, you know, he’s one of these people if you have a sense of humor, and you look right at him, and you just start laughing. I mean, maybe not with anybody anymore, but we always had this, I don’t know what it was, it would trigger something, and we would just start giggling, because he looks like he’s going to burst into laughter.

Suzanne: He’s a funny guy.

William Shatner (Captain Kirk) and Louise Sorel (Rayna) in an episode of "Route 66" (photo from IMdb)Louise: Yes, he is. And so, I mean, we got on very well, even on “Star Trek.” There’s a picture in my book that I – You know, you have to put some pictures in. So, there’s a picture of me dancing with Bill, because we did a waltz or something. And I just put a notation under that saying, “Excuse me, what did you say?” That’s sort of our relationship. He’s 90-something now. I haven’t seen him in a long time.

Suzanne: Right. Well, he’s still doing horse shows and is active on Twitter. Yeah, whatever they let him do, he does.

Louise: Yeah, that’s how you keep going.

Suzanne: Yeah, I think so. So, you’ve had a great long career in daytime, primetime, and movies. Do you have a favorite genre that you prefer?

Louise: Theater.

Suzanne: Theater, right? That’s where you got your start, right?

Louise: Yes, yes. To me, it’s the purest form. I mean, once in a while, you’ll find, oddly enough, when I was on a show called Santa Barbara, there were a lot of theater actors. So, I’d never done a soap or seen a soap, and I wasn’t sure I was going to want to do that. Then I saw we had Dame Judith Anderson talk about the theater, and then Nicolas Coster. Nicky was in England in theater and all over the place, and we both had worked together before. And there were a couple others, Lane Davies, who does Shakespeare all the time now in Prague. So, you know, it was quite amazing to walk onto a soap opera and have that kind of group to work with. And we did work like we were in theater. So, you know, that was nice. Although, yeah, it was as close to theater for me, doing that. It ended up not being so close, because it ends up you have to get the show in the box, and you have to get it done, and everybody’s looking at their watch, and that makes it a different experience. However, it was a very good experience, I must say.

Suzanne: Plus no live audience.

Louise: No live audience, no. But, you know, I did a show with Don Rickles, and we did have a live audience. So, it was sort of like theater.

Suzanne: When was the last time you did theater?

Louise: Last, let’s see… Oh my God, I hate to say this. It was about, really seriously, about ten years ago here in New York with a transport group. We did “I Remember Mama,” and it was an absolute huge hit. And every actress in it was a theater – I call them theater rats, because they’re devoted to the theater. Wonderful actors all the way down the line. Everyone was a theater actor, and we got rave reviews here. It was supposed to move to Broadway but financially they couldn’t do it which was really a shame, because it was so unusual. I don’t know if you know the movie…

 

Suzanne: I’ve seen it, but a long time ago.

Louise: Yeah, well, it’s a lot of different characters. We were ten women doing the men, the children, and the adults. So, we were all playing – I played a younger sister. I played this very older woman who was a writer, a very arrogant sort of woman. Heather McRae played a man. I didn’t play any men, but several actresses played men as well as women, and Barbara Berry was wonderful. She played the lead character, so it was a great group of women with very unusual experience

Suzanne: Wow, that sounds great. Yes, you last appeared on “Days of Our Lives” in April. Do you know if you’ll be back again soon?

Louise: Yeah, I’ll be on in September.

Suzanne: Oh, good.

Louise: Now it’s sporadic, because I live in New York, and they have to fly me out and put me up, which is nice. And then they’ve got new writers, so I don’t know what they’re doing. I don’t know what direction it’s going in, but they might not want to just continue putting me in there unless they were to do a really interesting storyline, because Vivian’s up to cause havoc, and I don’t know if there’s anybody left for her to care about in terms of her storyline, so I have no idea, but I know I will be back. I’ve done them – I can’t remember what date, March I think, and they’ll be on in next September

Suzanne: Oh, good. I know you have a lot of fans out there who always enjoy Vivian coming on and causing trouble.

Louise: It’s kind of fun to do that. You never want to be – who is it? BIlly Wilder or something [said], “Don’t be a victim.” You don’t want to play those roles.

Suzanne: Well, I think Vivian plays the victim in her mind, but nobody else agrees.

Louise: Yes, exactly.

Suzanne: Exactly. I’ve watched Days off and on since the 90’s. I’ve seen a lot of your work. I think my favorite was when Vivian buried Carly alive. Do you have a favorite Days storyline?

Louise: Well, that was fun, because we committed to that. I’ve been very lucky, because the writers… I don’t know what possessed them, but they wrote me some pretty funny stuff. I mean, I was Elvis Presley. I was a French woman. I had something put in my teeth so that I was being operated [on] by – I mean there were just so many

Suzanne: Controlled by Stefano…

Louise: That’s right. I mean it was always surprising. I remember walking in one day to the wardrobe department there was a wonderful man doing the wardrobe there, Richard Bluer just fabulous, and he said, “Do you want to know what you’re wearing tomorrow?” And he said “Maybe not. I don’t think I’m going to tell you that.” So, I walk in, and there is a large box of french fries. I mean, large – you know 6 feet high or not quite 5 something. I said, “Richard please tell me.” He said, “Yep, that’s you.” I was a box of french fries, and Ivan, my butler, was a hamburger. So, you know, as much as I thought they were out of their minds, when I reflect on it, I thought, “Thank you.” I had such a fun time to be quite insane, so it makes it much more fun than doing a mournful dreary victim storyline where you’re crying all the time and wondering who did what to you. I’d much rather do it to somebody.

Suzanne: I always loved Vivian and Ivan’s relationship

Louise: Oh, so did I. I’m sad they didn’t bring that back, because we talk once in a while. He used to come into work and say “Madam” – he called me madam – “do we have any lines today?” Ivan, we’ve got 20 pages. I mean it would drive me nuts. I mean, he knew the work, but we had that kind of relationship, and I thought it was a very good one that worked well in the show

Suzanne: What is he doing now?

Louise: He lives in Santa Fe on a really lovely piece of property. He also does go to work. He’s from Prague, and I think he goes and works there once in a while. I haven’t spoken to him in a while, but I’d like to say “hello.” I was very fond of him. I mean to have that kind of person to work with was just – I actually got a T-shirt that said “madam feels like shit today” [laughs] because that would be sort of our relationship. Yeah, we had a great time.

Suzanne: Yeah, they definitely should bring him back, too.

Louise: Oh, yes.

Suzanne: So, you’ve appeared in so many plays, tv shows and movies…Which character, that you’ve played, do you have a favorite?

Louise: You know, I can’t say that I do. I wonder when people say they have a favorite that you don’t spend that much time with these characters. There’re so many of them. I had more of an enjoyment of being able to play a Greek girl, because I do dialects, or a gypsy. I was thrown into a lot of those roles – a French girl on “Rat Patrol” – and that was so enjoyable for me, but it wasn’t any one specific, because they don’t last that long.

Suzanne: Sure, especially back then…

Louise:  Right, and Broadway shows – I mean, I did several, but I can’t really say that any one particular thing was more a favorite than another. I just enjoyed doing it whatever it was.

Suzanne: Well, you probably played Vivian longer on the screen than anyone else.

Louise: That’s true. I do love the character. You know, at first I was very intrigued, and then there was a point where I was doing really silly things, but now I realize that that was part of the charm of the character. I would balk at certain things they ,wanted for instance the burying alive of Carly. When it said, “Vivian does a jig,” and I said “What are they talking about?” So, I marched up the stairs and said, “Excuse me; I don’t jig.” I had a tendency to make statements or ask questions. I’m very loving of my character, and I always want to protect them. So, he said – mortified – he said “What is it you want to do?” because of course he couldn’t come up with anything, one of the producers. I said, “I have no idea, but I’m going to a lunch hour, and I’m going to work on it,” which I did. So, I came up with – don’t ask, I don’t know where it came from, maybe Shakespeare – she loves me; she loves me not. I did this strange wandering around the grave and the crew was in shock, because they just pulled the camera back, and they said, “We don’t know what she’s going to do. Okay, shoot it,” and then it was dead silence when I finished, and a couple of people said it gave them chills, but whatever. You know, it’s sort of fun to create those things.

Suzanne: Well, it was definitely memorable for sure, even though they kind of repeated it a little bit later on with other characters.

Louise: Yeah. I didn’t get anything to cover to make sure they couldn’t steal it, but anyway…

Suzanne: Was there anything that you wish that you could have done on Days or any of the other soaps that you didn’t get to do?

Louise: Well, I don’t know, because each of them was so different. The characters were so different. You sort of go along with what they write for you, and the things that I would do that may not have been appropriate for the character, I did have an idea about something which I went and told one of the producers, and I won’t say who, but another character ended up doing what I had suggested, and that was as annoying as hell, but, you know, nothing you can do about that. I did have an idea of playing a character that was my twin sister who is a Brit coming over and being my conscience, and the other character saying, “Vivian, what the hell do you think you’re doing? Stop it!” You know, a conscience sort of character. It didn’t happen, but you think about those things.

Louise Sorel (Vivian on "Days of Our Lives") photo from her Facebook PageSuzanne: You were on “One Life to Live” as a judge, And “Port Charles”…

Louise: No, I think on One Life I was a lawyer. I was a lawyer on that, and judge on “All My Children.”

Suzanne: And you were a fashion designer on Port Charles briefly.

Louise: Very briefly [laughs] very very briefly, yes.

Suzanne:  So, would you do any of the other soaps that are on now if they asked you to? “General Hospital,” or “Young and the Restless,” “The Bold and The Beautiful?”

Louise: Well, you always want to work. I think what’s happened, and I don’t know if I could work that way anymore, and it’s nobody’s fault… but the rapidity now of getting things done, which I experienced on Days last time, is the rush to finish, and the lack of time to really delve in and make them the best. You know, they try their best, but everybody is under the clock, and that’s a very difficult thing for everyone to work with. I mean, if it was some wonderful character for a brief thing, I think that would be fun, but there are only four shows left, and I think they’ve got enough people. I don’t think they’re looking for anything.

 

Suzanne: Well, actually, there’re five now.

Louise: Five… oh, right, [Beyond] The Gates.

Suzanne: “Beyond The Gates”, yeah… a couple of actors from the other soaps have gone over there for [more] work. I’m just glad people have work…I think everybody that works on soaps is happy that there’s a new one, just because it means it’s [not] all ending.

Louise: Yes, I mean they dwindled from twelve to four.

Suzanne: Yeah.

Louise: That’s really a lot

Suzanne: Tell me about it. When I started my site there was like nineteen, I think. (I was wrong about this, oops!)

Louise: Oh, when did you start?

Suzanne: Well, in the late 90’s

Louise: There were nineteen soaps?

Suzanne: I think there were. I’d have to go back and look. There were a lot, I know that.

Louise: I didn’t know there were that many.

Suzanne: I’ll have to go count and let you know, but yeah, just to see them go down, but you know all of TV is having that problem, not just daytime, unfortunately. And worldwide, even the British shows are having [problems] because of streaming and everything. I mean, there are more parts for actors because of streaming, but it’s hard to get people to watch so many shows. So, it’s difficult, and then all the financial problems, so, yeah… don’t mean to be doom and gloom, though…

Louise: No, but it’s true. Financially, it’s a lot of pressure, just huge, and sometimes I feel bad that sometimes I have to stop shooting a scene, and I want to correct something or make it better, and I feel sort of guilty, because I’m stopping them ,and they’re looking at their watches, but you can’t help it. If you care about something, you just want to make it the best you can.

Suzanne: Yeah, definitely. Are you still close to or in touch with any of your favorite cast mates besides Ivan?

Louise: Ivan… Well I’ve maintained a friendship, because I’m living so far away. I don’t really see them. There’s a wonderful girl on Days of Our Lives, Judi Evans, and she is an angel from heaven, that’s all I have to say. I have never met anyone like her and [with] the loss that she’s had, you would never know anything other than full love respect for everyone. She’s like a bundle of joy. I was just so overwhelmed by her generosity of spirit. We’re not close friends, but we sort of became friends when I went back on Days a couple of times. You know, you lose lots of time, because I live in New York, so I really feel like you go to do your work, and if something happens it comes out of it, like Judith McConnell.

Transcribed by Jamie

Book cover of "If There Were No Dogs": Musings and Mutterings by Louise SorelMORE INFO:

If There Were No Dogs”: Musings and Mutterings Paperback – August 6, 2025

The book is a collection of prose pieces and poems by actress Louise Sorel drawn from her life, childhood, and career. Her father was a Hollywood movie producer and her Egyptian-born mother an actress and musician. Louise Sorel began her career on Broadway with actors such as Art Carney, Charles Boyer, and Rita Moreno, and toured with George C. Scott, Walter Pidgeon, and many others. She guest-starred in dozens of TV shows and movies such as Bonanza, Route 66, Kojak, Medical Center, The Flying Nun, Airplane 2, Plaza Suite, Star Trek, and many others. She appeared as Augusta Lockridge on the show Santa Barbara, and has starred as the iconic character Vivian Allemain on the show Days of Our Lives for many years. Louise’s life and adventures from which this book comes have been motivated by her love of the theater, her devotion to dogs and other animals, and her many travels.

A flashy, aggressive, cold and calculating villainess and eternally hopeless meddler on a number of daytime soap operas, Louise Sorel has given her opulent, show-stopping characters major doses of humor and grit that have allowed her to become one of daytime’s more popular figures for over six decades.

Of Jewish heritage, Louise, whose roots are in theatre, was born on August 6, 1940 in Los Angeles to entertainment professionals. Studying at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York, she made her Broadway debut playing a teenager in the 1961 comedy “Take Her, She’s Mine” starring Art Carney and also had subsequent roles in “Lorenzo” (1963) and “Man and Boy” (1963). Her initial interest obviously was sparked by her actress/concert pianist mother Jeanne Sorel, and father Albert J. Cohen, who produced films in the 1940s and 1950s. Louise went on to co-star on Broadway with Rita Moreno in “The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window” in 1964 and appeared with George C. Scott and Colleen Dewhurst as Princess Alais in the 1967 Bucks County Playhouse production of “The Lion in Winter.”

Given a bit part (billed as Jacqueline Sorel) in the exploitation teen film Eighteen and Anxious (1957), Louise, in 1964, married comic actor Herb Edelman, best known for his recurring role of Bea Arthur‘s ex husband Stan in The Golden Girls (1985). Around this time, she began setting her sights on TV drama, appearing on various dramatic shows including “Dr. Kildare,” “The Defenders,” “The Trials of O’Brien,” “Route 66,” “The Rat Patrol,” “The Virginian,” “Run for Your Life,” “Star Trek,” “The Big Valley,” “The Fugitive,” “Night Gallery,” “The Bold Ones,” “Banacek,” “Hawaii Five-0,” “Owen Marshall,” “Kojak,” “Hart to Hart,” “The Incredible Hulk,” “Ironside” and several episodes of “Medical Center,” as well as a recurring part on the short-lived nighttime soap opera The Survivors (1969) starring Lana Turner and George Hamilton. In a change of pace, Louise turned to comedy as Don Rickles‘ wife on his poorly-received series The Don Rickles Show (1972).

Though she divorced Edelman in 1972, Louise nevertheless co-starred with him again in the failed sitcom Ladies’ Man (1980). She met second husband actor Ken Howard in 1972 while appearing with him in a Philadelphia stage production of “Volpone.” They married a year later but divorced a couple of years later in 1975.

Appearing in support in the films Plaza Suite (1971), Every Little Crook and Nanny (1972), Airplane II: The Sequel (1982), Where the Boys Are (1984), and Crimes of Passion (1984), Louise moved quite steadily ahead not only with a regular role in the short-lived comedy series Ladies’ Man (1980), but with co-star/featured roles in the TV movies The Girl Who Came Gift-Wrapped (1974), The Mark of Zorro (1974), When Every Day Was the Fourth of July (1978), Mazes and Monsters (1982), Sunset Limousine (1983) and A Masterpiece of Murder (1986).Vivian (Louise Sorel) and Victor (John Aniston) on "Days of Our Lives" (photo from Days of Our Lives Fandom Wiki)

Various daytime soap operas reinvigorated Louise’s career tenfold in the late 1980s. She began her road to sudsy infamy in 1984 as the eccentric archvillainess Augusta Lockridge for the entire run of Santa Barbara (1984). From there she was given recurring roles as Judith Sanders on One Life to Live (1968) and as Donatella Stewart Port Charles (1997). In 1992, Louise joined the cast of Days of Our Lives (1965) as the manipulative Vivian Alamain. By the time she left in 2000, she had won five Soap Opera Digest Awards.

More recently, Louise has had devilish fun in the quirky soap Passions (1999) and in a recurring role on the political drama Beacon Hill (2014). Bio from IMdB

Vivian Alamain is a fictional character from Days of Our Lives, an American soap opera (that aired on the NBC network for multiple decades until its September 2022 switch to streaming via Peacock). Created by head writers Richard J. Allen and Beth Milstein, and introduced by executive producers Ken Corday and Al Rabin, the role is most recognized as portrayed by actress Louise Sorel. In addition to Sorel, the role has been portrayed by Marj Dusay, Robin Strasser and Linda Dano. (From Wikipedia)

Days of our Lives is the multi-award-winning daytime drama that has weathered and reflected political and societal shifts without pause since 1965. Featuring drama, romance, mystery, and suspense, “Days” follows the lives, loves, and conflicts of the Horton, Brady, DiMera, Kiriakis, and Hernandez families and their many friends and colleagues. As one of the longest-running scripted television programs in the world, it is enjoyed in many foreign territories including Canada, Sweden, New Zealand, Israel, South Africa, and Australia. Peacock is the exclusive home of Days of our Lives. Audiences can access the past season and new episodes every weekday. Days of our Lives is Nicholas Coster and Louise Sorel in "Santa Barbara" (from her Facebook page)produced by Corday Productions Inc. in association with Sony Pictures Television. (From the NBC/Uni site)

Santa Barbara is an American television soap opera that aired on NBC from July 30, 1984, to January 15, 1993.[2] The show revolves around the eventful lives of the wealthy Capwell family of Santa Barbara, California. Other prominent families featured on the soap were the rival Lockridge family, and the more modest Andrade and Perkins families.

The serial was produced by Dobson Productions and New World Television, which also served as distributor for the show in international markets. Santa Barbara was the first series for New World Television.

Santa Barbara aired in the United States at 3:00 p.m. Eastern (2:00 p.m. Central) on NBC in the same time slot as General Hospital on ABC and Guiding Light on CBS and right after Another World. Santa Barbara aired in over 40 countries around the world.  It became the longest-running television series in Russia, airing there from 1992 to 2002. Santa Barbara won 24 Daytime Emmy Awards and was nominated 30 times for the same award. The show also won 18 Soap Opera Digest Awards and various other awards.  (From Wikipedia)

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Y&R Short Recap Tuesday, August 5, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Claire decides that she won’t let Victor dictate her life anymore, so she gets Victoria’s blessing to move in with Kyle. Victor calls Audra to his office and he tells her that he is pulling the funding from Vivrante because she failed in her plan to break up Kyle and Claire.

Billy tells Cane that he only wants Chancellor Industries back because he wants to make it a legacy to honor Chance. Billy tells Cane he doesn’t want to participate in the takeover of the other companies in town. Billy warns Cane that Jack and Victor will never let him be their boss and they won’t give up their companies so easily to him.

Billy makes a video call to Jill because he wanted to know if Jill knew that Cane was Aristotle Dumas the entire time. Jill doesn’t answer the question and puts her head down. Since Billy knows his mother so well means that she always knew that Cane was Aristotle Dumas.

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GH Short Recap Friday, August 1, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Jason tells Anna that he saw Britt at the airport on his way home from a business trip. Jason also tells Anna that Lisel told her Britt was cremated but, when he spoke to the funeral director, the date Britt was cremated wasn’t on the forms. Anna thinks that Jason is right…that Britt did fake her own death and that Lisel doesn’t know because Britt didn’t want people she loved to see her die. Anna thinks Jason shouldn’t search for Britt because, if she faked her own death, she probably wanted to be left alone.

Jack orders Josslyn to quit he job with Professor Dalton because she and Vaughn are going on a very important surveillance mission to Dalmatia, Croatia to a resort called the Five Poppies. Jocelyn worries that Emma will get more involved with Professor Dalton. Jack tells Josslynn that he will handle Anna and Emma. Josslyn and Vaugn have to pretend to be married while they are at the resort.

Gio and Emma plan for Gio to search Professor Dalton ‘s office while he is giving a speech.

Jason calls the Five Poppies resort to make a reservation. Jason overhears Britt’s voice over the phone while he is talking to the resort manager on the phone.

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Days Short Recap Friday, August 1, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Marlena wanted to talk to Rachel about the trial. She said that she wanted Rachel to tell the truth. Rachel told her that EJ wanted her to lie. She admitted that EJ didn’t say that, but he implied that he wanted her to lie. Marlena told her that her only job was to tell the truth at the trial. She let Rachel know that she thought Johnny was innocent. They didn’t know who shot EJ. Marlena wanted to know if Rachel remembered anything else about that night. Rachel didn’t remember anything else. Sarah ran into EJ at the hospital. She demanded that he do something about the elevators not working. He didn’t care until she said it was his responsibility. EJ agreed to get it fixed the next day. While he talking to Sarah, he goaded her about Xander not getting the hospital. Rita arrived at the hospital and told EJ that nickeling and diming was going to last of long. She wondered if there was anything else that could get cut. EJ asked her if she thought Stefano was dead. She assured him that Stefano was dead. EJ told her about Susan’s theory about not finding a body. Rita told EJ that Stefano survived Hope’s shooting and died later. EJ was ready to believe what Rita said. Rita changed the subject and told him that he might be pinching the pennies too much. He said that everything was going according to his plan.

Sarah met Brady at the town square. She was kicking herself for not letting Xander help her carry Victoria down the stairs at the hospital. He offered to get a drink with her. She vented about Xander. Sarah remembered that Xander did something nice for her. Co-parenting with Xander sucked. She decided to take Brady’s advice and avoid a war with Xander. He said he and Kristen messed things up for Rachel, but she was okay. They talked about how she made the right decision by trying to be civil with Xander. EJ talked to Sydney to check on her. He found out something about Sami. Marlena promised Rachel that everything would work out. She wouldn’t let anything happen to anyone she cared about again. Marlena’s phone rang. She answered it and found out that Sami was coming home tomorrow.

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BTG Short Recap Friday, August 1, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

The Articulettes were nervous about the show. Leslie told Eva that she was upset about not having tickets to the show. She blamed Ted for why she didn’t have tickets. When Eva went to the bathroom, Leslie looked through her pocketbook and stole a credit card to pay for her bill. She also stole the tickets Ted gave her. Shanice and Ashley talked about Derek and Andre not having tickets to the concert. Nicole let everyone know that Martin and Smitty were going to the concert. Samantha thought it was a good sign for her parents. Kat was glad that Martin and Smitty didn’t break up because of an affair.

Doug let Vanessa know that he wasn’t going to the concert with her. He said he was done with pretending that they were happy. Vanessa told him to stop drinking, gambling, and blurting things out at the worst time or she wouldn’t be able to keep him safe. Doug ended up giving Shanice his ticket so she could go with Vanessa. At the theater, Naomi and Smitty talked about the secrets they were keeping from their spouses. Everyone was shocked when Leslie showed up. Vernon warned Leslie not to ruin the night. Eva tried to stop Leslie from saying anything. The concert went underway. Derek and Ashley went for coffee. While they were talking, Derek promised not to give up on them if she gave him another chance. Ashley said they were over and that she needed to move on.

 

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