Days Update Thursday, October 1, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Philip meets Maggie in the town square. Maggie mentions being surprised they are meeting there instead of at the office. Philip explains that it’s not business, but personal. Philip then returns Maggie’s ring and thanks her for the loan.

Xander joins Brady and Sarah at the Brady Pub and asks how Sarah is holding up. Sarah asks how he thinks when Melinda Trask is about to publicly attack her credibility and accuse her of being responsible for the death of a patient. Brady gets a call from Belle, who says she’s really worried about Marlena. Brady asks what’s wrong. Belle explains that she was up late last night and heard Marlena crying, so she went to check on her but she said she was fine and clearly she’s not, while this morning she’s not coming out of her room. Brady says he’s with Sarah right now and she needs him, but he will be there as soon as he can and hangs up. Sarah asks if everything is okay. Brady says Belle is worried about Marlena. Sarah tells him that he needs to go. Brady doesn’t want to leave her but Sarah insists that she’s fine and knows he’s there for her. Brady kisses her and exits.

At the DiMera Mansion, EJ is on the phone with Melinda Trask, saying if he didn’t have other fires to put out, he would handle the situation himself but it’s all on her now. EJ tells her not to screw it up. Melinda tells him not to worry as it’s handled.

Joy desperately pushes the help button from her hospital bed until Kayla comes in to ask if she can help. Joy says she didn’t mean to bother Kayla as she thought one of the nurses would come in but she’s expecting a package to be delivered. Kayla says she can check on that for her but first she needs to check her reflexes before taking her down for the nerve conduction study. Joy tells Kayla that she doesn’t feel anything and worries that’s bad. Kayla says they will take her to neurology soon to find out more and tells her to hang in there as she exits.

Steve works at Black Patch and looks over at the photo of John on his desk. Steve then thinks back to revealing Dominic Marino’s birth certificate to Marlena, listing her and Stefano as the parents. Steve wishes John was there with his knack for always finding the silver lining when the rest of them come up empty. Steve promises to get Marlena the answers she needs and he has a good idea of where to start.

Marlena lays in bed looking at the photo of Stefano holding Dominic and wonders if he could really be her son.

Maggie tells Philip that she had been looking all over for the ring, explaining that her son Daniel gave it to her with a matching necklace so it means a lot. Philip says he’s sorry. Maggie asks if he got it mixed up with his things while packing up the house. Philip admits he took it which shocks Maggie.

Kayla brings Joy her delivery and says it was apparently at the nurses station for awhile. Joy thanks her and says she was so worried it got lost in the mail. Kayla says she will see her in a bit and exits. Joy then opens the package of muscle relaxers, saying she hopes they do the trick.

Brady joins Belle at home. Belle thanks him for coming so soon and says Marlena still hasn’t come out of her room. Belle then gets a text from Steve, wanting to see her, and asks if Brady knows what that’s about. Brady tells her that Steve is working on theories about the Dominic Marino mystery. Belle definitely wants to help with that but she doesn’t think she should leave Marlena. Brady offers to stay and be with Marlena since she’s always been there for him in his life. Belle says she will be right back then and hurries out.

EJ checks his phone and sees a missed call from Johnny. EJ calls him back, leaving a message that he got his message about the lawsuit and they need to talk. EJ then hangs up, sits on the couch, and turns on the television to watch Melinda Trask delivering her statement on behalf of Destiny’s parents, seeking a wrongful death lawsuit. Xander and Sarah watch from the Pub as Melinda talks about Destiny being seen by Sarah, claiming she ignored Destiny’s severe symptoms and discharged her, then she died shortly after. Brady watches on his phone at Marlena’s while Steve watches on his tablet from his office. EJ continues watching the TV with a smile as Melinda says if this was a simple case of malpractice it would be bad enough but the story doesn’t end there. Melinda claims that the day after Destiny’s death, Sarah altered her test results from abnormal to normal to cover up her tragic error which EJ laughs at while Sarah starts to cry watching it.

Kayla comes across a TV at the hospital and sees Melinda’s statement. Sarah cries as Melinda continues saying that Sarah was behind the FDA complaint against DiMera Pharmaceuticals as a way to cover up her shameful treatment of Destiny. EJ continues to enjoy himself as he watches the TV. Brady gets upset as he watches as Melinda says that they believe Destiny’s death could’ve been avoided if she was in the hands of a more competent doctor. Steve continues watching as Melinda says that Sarah’s actions taint the name of Tom Horton.

Sarah and Xander continue watching from the Pub as Melinda says her clients believe it’s worth it to prevent more suffering at the hands of Sarah Horton. Sarah tells Xander that every single word was a lie and cries about how cruel Melinda was to bring her Grandfather’s name in to it. Xander argues that it’s EJ who is cruel for feeding Destiny’s family all these lies. Xander says damn EJ to Hell.

EJ declares that Sarah played with fire and can prepare to be burned without recognition.

Maggie doesn’t understand why Philip took her ring. Philip explains that he was borrowing it as he needed it so he and Gabi could pretend to be engaged since it was the only way to get her in to the poker game. Maggie is surprised to learn that Gabi was with him in Monte Carlo. Philip reveals that Gabi gave him the money he needed to enter the game, so she wanted to keep an eye on her investment.

Belle goes to see Steve at Black Patch. Steve thanks her for coming and asks how Marlena is doing. Belle says she’s not great and that she heard Marlena crying in her room, but she wouldn’t talk to her. Belle wishes she knew what was wrong. Steve thinks the whole Dominic Marino mystery is getting to her. Belle says that’s what she was afraid of.

Marlena comes out of her room and hugs Brady. Marlena explains to Brady that at first, she was in denial as she couldn’t believe it because after all the terrible things Stefano put her through every year, he never touched her once. Marlena acknowledges that it’s possible the child could’ve been conceived some other way and asks if it’s possible that another woman carried him. Brady thinks one of the hardest things about it is knowing the evil behind it and that it was intended to cause her pain. Marlena says if seeing the picture of the little boy was Stefano’s way of tormenting her, it certainly worked, even from beyond the grave.

Steve tells Belle that he thinks the best thing they can do to help Marlena is to find the truth which means learning as much as they can about Dominic Marino and his connection to Stefano, Marlena, and John. Belle questions how to find that knowledge. Steve thinks the one person who might have answers is whoever was feeding her and Chad the clues that led them to Italy. Belle gives Steve the Verdi program to check for fingerprints. Belle guesses he’s checking for Dr. Rolf’s prints which Steve confirms but notes there’s also someone else; Rita Leslie.

Philip tells Maggie that Gabi placed a $5 million bet on him and it paid off for all of them. Maggie acknowledges that Gabi’s investment paid off while Philip hopes to be paying her back for a very long time, maybe even the rest of his life. Maggie asks if that means what she thinks. Philip confirms their adventure brought them closer together and that he and Gabi are giving it another try as a couple. Maggie tells Philip that she’s so happy and very grateful that he saved the company, even though she was upset about how he did it since it could’ve gone very wrong. Philip points out that it went very right and is about to even more.

EJ pays off Melinda Trask at the DiMera Mansion. Melinda says the amount will do and comments on EJ lacking a heart as she questions why he’s doing this. EJ calls that none of her concern and tells Melinda to just do her job. Melinda says she plans to, but since she’s pedaling his narrative, she thinks she has the right to know if there’s any truth to this.

Sarah cries to Xander that she can still see Destiny’s face as she was dying in the town square and how she wondered if she didn’t take Destiny’s symptoms serious enough or if she could’ve done more. Xander encourages that she did everything she could to save her and calls her the best person he’s ever known. Sarah says it doesn’t matter since Melinda just told the whole world that she’s an incompetent doctor, a liar, and a horrible person, so it doesn’t matter who she is. Sarah cries that when she’s picking up Victoria from preschool, all anyone will see is that she’s the woman who killed Destiny. Xander hugs her as she cries.

Steve joins Kayla at the hospital. Kayla is sure he saw Melinda’s unhinged rant and says she’s so worried about it hitting Sarah hard. Steve declares that he won’t and can’t let it stand as he questions why no one they care about can catch a break. Kayla asks if he’s okay. Steve says he’s just pissed off that EJ is putting Sarah through this. Kayla asks if that’s all it is since he was tossing and turning last night, then was gone when she got up in the morning, so she’s worried about him. Steve admits there is something else weighing on him, so Kayla asks if he wants to talk about it. Steve responds that he does, but he can’t.

Marlena cries to Brady that it makes her so angry to be manipulated by Stefano after all these years and then she thinks what if she just doesn’t play along, but she wonders if it’s possible that Dominic is her son. Brady promises to find him and get DNA so that she will know the truth. Marlena says she can’t get the little boy in the picture out of her mind and wonders if he thinks about her or believes that she’s his mother and thinks she abandoned him. Marlena says she’s counseled lots of couples about this sort of thing, but when it comes to herself, she can’t seem to find the words. Marlena adds that she can’t even sleep as it never stops.

EJ tells Melinda that she saw with her own eyes the files that prove Sarah altered Destiny’s test results to conceal her responsibility in her death. Melinda responds that’s what seemed to happen in the files that he gave her. EJ questions what she’s implying. Melinda says she just wants to see Destiny’s parents get justice and would hate to see them get taken advantage of since she has also been a grieving parent. EJ reminds her that he has been too until they are interrupted by hearing Philip and Xander arrive.

Kayla questions Steve being unable to tell her about what kept him up last night. Steve tells her that he’s been trying to help Marlena figure out the clues from the chess set that Stefano left her and John, which is why he had to run out of the Pub yesterday, because Bo uncovered some information that Marlena would prefer to keep confidential. Kayla understands but reminds Steve that she’s trusting him to not keep things from her where he could get hurt. Steve assures those days are over. Kayla tells Steve to be there for Marlena while she will be there for him. Steve says she always is as they hug.

Belle returns home and asks if Marlena is feeling better. Marlena says she is. Belle apologizes for running off and explains that Steve had some questions about the clues and she gave him the Verdi program to dust for prints. Belle explains that Steve wanted to track the person giving them the clues and suspects it could be Rita. Marlena calls that possible since Rita was close with Stefano and didn’t know EJ until much later. Belle knows Marlena didn’t want her to pursue this and says she never would have if she knew it would cause Marlena pain, so she’s very sorry that it has.

Sarah joins Maggie in the town square. Maggie mentions reading Melinda’s statement and asks how she’s holding up. Sarah says she’s the best she can and it helps that she’s not facing it alone as Brady and Steve are looking in to the digital files while Justin has agreed to be her attorney. Maggie asks about Xander. Sarah admits he’s been her rock and she doesn’t know how she would get through this without him. Sarah says Brady and everyone are all helping her. Maggie says to count her in as she’s never backed down from a fight involving her family. Maggie encourages that everyone who knows and loves her are behind her as they know there’s no way she could’ve done what she’s being accused of and that EJ knows it too. Sarah says it doesn’t matter to EJ as he’s just focused on trying to ruin her.

EJ tells Philip and Xander that he wasn’t expecting them and asks if they came to hand over the keys to Titan after their loan officially goes in to default at midnight. EJ offers them a drink to the demise of Victor’s company. EJ pours them glasses of scotch and toasts to the end of an era and the beginning of an infinitely better one. They take their drinks as Xander admits it is good while Philip informs EJ that it turns out they are not the ones with something to mourn. Xander informs EJ that they are not defaulting. Philip then presents the check to EJ and calls him a son of a bitch.

Kayla gets a text that Joy is back from her nerve conduction so she has to go. Steve hopes it’s good news. Kayla talks about hoping to find a better course of treatment as she walks away.

Belle asks why she didn’t just listen to Marlena and leave all of this alone. Marlena stops her and says Stefano put a lot of planning in to this scheme of his as there was something or someone he wanted her and John to know about. Marlena says that Belle pursuing it wouldn’t have changed that. Marlena decides she needs to go for a walk. Belle offers to go with her but Marlena says it’s okay as she exits. Belle guesses Brady knows what this is about. Brady confirms he does. Belle questions him not telling her. Brady says he’s sorry but he can’t. Belle says that Marlena said she doesn’t blame her, but she must since she’s freezing her out. Brady tells her that’s not the case while Belle questions why Marlena is confiding in him and not her then, arguing that she has a right to know. Brady responds that he doesn’t have the right to tell her as it’s up to Marlena.

Kayla checks on Joy, who asks what her test results say. Kayla calls it abnormal nerve conduction but says that was expected and she knows it’s disappointing. Joy says she’s just really tired after not sleeping last night because she was worried about the test. Kayla decides to let her rest and says to let her know if she needs anything. Kayla encourages that she will get through this as she exits.

Maggie tells Sarah that EJ is trying to destroy her to cover up the fact that he almost killed Holly. Maggie never thought she’d see the day that Xander and Brady would put their differences aside and work together which shows the one thing stronger than their dislike of each other is their love for Sarah as she hugs her.

EJ is shocked as Xander tells him that’s every penny they owed. Philip declares it’s loan paid in full. EJ questions how this is possible. Philip responds that he went up against better men and lost. Xander asks if he’s not going to congratulate them. EJ orders them to get out. Philip says they’ll leave him to nurse his battered ego. Xander adds that just like he didn’t get away with this, he won’t get away with what he’s doing to Sarah as that’s going to blow up in his face. Xander and Philip then walk out of the mansion.

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Days Update Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Eli and Lani lay in bed together. They talk about it being nice of Julie to take the twins to school for them. Lani hates that Eli has to leave town for a whole week which means he will miss Chanel’s baby shower. Eli assures he doesn’t want to leave, but duty calls. Lani says she gets it but wishes they could lay in bed all day and night as they kiss.

Tate begins training Holly at his gym until they end up kissing.

Leo joins Gwen and Cat in the town square. Gwen suggests ordering a pitcher of mimosas. Leo says he can’t as it’s a big work day for him as he’s recording his first podcast. Cat congratulates him and asks how that came about. Leo explains that the Spectator was looking to expand it’s digital footprint so he was picked to do a podcast and his interview skills need to be sharp so he won’t be drinking. Gwen assumes that means Cat won’t be drinking either since she has to be at work soon. Cat responds that she is all in on mimosas which surprises Gwen. Gwen asks if EJ doesn’t mind if she shows up work tipsy but Cat reveals that she doesn’t work for EJ anymore as she quit.

Kate meets Philip at the Brady Pub. Kate says it was very pleasant to get a call from him, but asks if she should be worried. Philip questions that being her first thought and understands it’s her default. Philip tells Kate that he doesn’t want or need anything and actually has two things for her. Philip presents her with a gift bag from Monte Carlo. Kate points out that he didn’t tell her that he was going to Monte Carlo and asks what he went for. Philip says it was business, so Kate questions what kind of business. Philip calls it the kind where he won so much money playing poker and roulette that he could save the family business.

Eli and Lani kiss in bed as Eli says maybe he can stay a little longer, but then remembers that Lani is doing a podcast with Leo. Lani admits she doesn’t want to do it. Eli questions her being nervous. Lani feels she has no business being on it because what happened with Holly wasn’t her being a hero, she just happened to be in the right place at the right time, but Leo said it’s about keeping people safe on the streets so she guesses it could be worth it. Lani decides she has to start getting ready. Eli tells Lani that she is a hero and always will be.

Tate tells Holly they can get back to her training. Holly points out that her time is almost up but Tate says they can go over since he doesn’t have any clients after her, adding that he probably needs to get some. Holly offers to start paying for her training but Tate refuses, saying he’s making the rent fine, just not much profit but he has some ideas on how to change that like offering special membership rates and group classes. Tate finishes Holly’s training and tells her she did great. Holly admits she feels like she’s making progress. Holly decides she’s going to clean up, so Tate says he will lock up and join her there. When Holly steps out, Mason then walks in.

Kate worries that Philip has opened himself up to the world of gambling after all they went through the last time. Philip argues that everything his father built was on the line, so he had to try. Kate argues that Victor would be furious at him while Philip argues that Victor would’ve done the same thing with his back against the wall and running out of time. Kate reluctantly agrees that Philip did save his father’s company. Philip promises he will never gamble again after that. Kate asks what if he’s tempted. Philip informs her that he’s already promised Maggie he will go to meetings. Philip says he knows Kate’s there for him as she always has been, insisting this is good news. Philip then declares that now that Titan is saved, he hopes Kate will consider coming back to the company, but Kate says there’s no chance of that.

Gwen questions Cat quitting her job as EJ’s assistant and then praises her for doing so. Leo points out that Cat doesn’t seem that excited about it and asks her what happened. Cat responds that it came down to trust. She says she could sense that EJ no longer trusted her, so it was time to leave. Gwen argues that if anyone can’t be trusted, it’s EJ, so Cat made the right move. Gwen remarks that any partnership with EJ is bound to go down in flames sooner than later. Cat tells Gwen that she heard her bid for the hospital was rejected and she’s sorry. Gwen says she’s the one that’s sorry since she can’t hire Cat, but at least she’s still loaded. Gwen comments on Leo doing well too since she saw all the boxes delivered to his room. Leo clarifies that they were counterfeit purses as part of his side project to help Gabi nail the person behind it. Gwen says that’s EJ as Leo remarks that he would love to take him down. Cat guesses Leo will be buying more purses now. Leo says that was the original plan but Philip suggests going at a different angle.

Philip tells Kate that he knows she just took on a new challenge at the Spectator. Kate responds that she’s not going to walk away just a few days in to the job, so she’s not going back to Titan. Philip says he had to ask but calls her a damn fine editor. Kate responds that there were some things she wasn’t proud of last time around, but she was happy to be back in the Kiriakis fold while it lasted. Philip tells her that as long as he’s in the Kiriakis fold, she will be too.

Mason enters the gym and meets Tate. Mason tells Tate that he’s looking to upgrade from the gym at Salem U, likes his setup, and saw his flyer advertising martial arts classes. Tate asks about his experience level. Mason responds that he’s advanced as he was actually in the marines. Tate offers Mason a one week trial and says he’ll grab him a registration form. Mason then hands over his ID and Tate realizes who he is.

Lani and Eli kiss in bed until Lani gets a text from Paulina. Lani tells Eli about Paulina wanting to call in a favor with the Governor to get her a pardon, but she said she didn’t want her to yet Paulina won’t let it go. Eli questions why she doesn’t want her to. Lani responds that it’s too risky and asks what if the Governor says no and then goes public that the Mayor was trying to call in a favor for her which could ruin Paulina’s career. Eli then points out that the Governor could say yes and resurrect her career. Lani states that the whole nightmare is finally over, so she just wants to move forward. Eli encourages that getting a felony removed from her record could open up many doors for her including rejoining the Salem police department. Lani complains of feeling like everyone is pressuring her. Eli says he’s not trying to, but insists Paulina loves her and is just trying to right a wrong. Lani responds that she did her time and justice was served. Eli argues that she was forced to save her mom’s life and went to prison for it, which isn’t justice but a travesty. Eli tells Lani that she deserves the life she’s always dreamed of.

Leo tells Cat and Gwen that this has been divine, but he’s off to go shoot his podcast. Gwen wishes him luck. Leo says he has to wrap up in time because he has to go record Melinda Trask’s statement on the wrongful death suit against Sarah. Cat calls Sarah an excellent doctor while Gwen asks what this is all about. Leo says he doesn’t know as the people suing could be after money or something else entirely but guesses they will know more after what Melinda has to say. Leo tells them to tune in to his podcast tomorrow for the debut episode of Stark Raving Mad as they won’t want to miss it.

Lani tells Eli that she already has everything she wanted in him and their kids, so she feels greedy to ask for anything more. Eli responds that it’s not greedy to want to clear her name when all she was doing was saving her mother’s life. Eli thinks she’s suffered enough for that. Lani feels she needs to do what’s right for her. Eli encourages that she’s kind, generous and always putting others before herself. Eli hopes that what feels right is putting herself first in this case.

Kate asks Philip if Titan being saved means everyone is moving back in to the house. Philip says unfortunately, Maggie and Xander signed the sales contract before he got back with the money. Kate says that’s too bad and notes that Chad was telling her about Dominic Marino being mysteriously connected to Stefano in some way. Kate questions that not giving them pause about selling to him. Philip says they didn’t know about the connection at the time, but they figured anything was better than letting the house go to EJ. Kate says she hopes so as she always felt connected to the house. Kate talks about Victor’s presence in the house and how she always imagined Philip starting a family there one day. Philip guesses she means once he finds a woman that she actually approves of which Kate says goes without saying.

Tate tells Mason that he recognizes his name. Mason asks if they’ve met. Tate says they haven’t, but his girlfriend has mentioned him a few times. Mason asks who his girlfriend is as Holly then comes out from the back and sees him.

Lani and Eli kiss in bed until Lani says she should get going before she’s late. Eli encourages her to just be herself as they say they love each other and Lani gets out of bed.

Kate tells Philip that she loves the idea of pulling the rug out from under EJ and blindsiding him by making the full loan payment when he’s expecting a default. Philip reminds Kate to keep a lid on it until they are ready to pull the trigger which she agrees to. Leo then arrives and calls it charming to see them having a mother-son breakfast. Kate asks if he’s supposed to be recording his podcast. Leo says he was on his way when he saw her through the window, so he figured he’d pop in for a quick hello. Leo tells Philip that he’d love to further discuss the thing they talked about yesterday which Kate questions. Philip calls it nothing for her to be concerned about but Kate is suspect with Leo involved. Leo asks why he would be cause for concern when he’s her star employee. Kate warns that he won’t be for long if he doesn’t get back to recording, so Leo exits. Kate then questions Philip as to what Leo was talking about.

Gwen and Cat toast to Leo’s career continuing to flourish. Cat hopes he hasn’t taken on too much with the counterfeit purses and a podcast. Gwen says he loves being busy, unlike them. Cat asks if Gwen has given any thought to her next move. Gwen admits she hasn’t and says it’s so nice to be rich, but it can get dull. Gwen knows it’s awful to complain but says she’s having trouble filling the time and she gets in to trouble when she gets bored.

Mason tells Tate that he’s sorry as he had no idea this was his gym and he can always find another place to train, but Holly tells Mason that he should stay and sign up. Tate asks if she’s sure. Holly tells Tate that she has to get to Leo’s podcast and she’ll call him later as she exits. Tate tells Mason that he can train here, but he’s going to have to tell him what his problem is with Holly. Mason questions her not telling him while Tate is surprised to learn that he told her. Mason informs Tate that it’s about Sophia Choi.

Gwen tells Cat that she always finds a way to occupy herself. Cat advises her to stay out of trouble. Gwen says they’ll see and asks if Cat has anything lined up. Cat responds that she has a few irons in the fire that she can’t talk about yet, but she hopes it pays off.

Lani and Holly join Leo at the Spectator for his podcast. Holly talks about being excited as she’s never done a podcast. Leo feels the same. Leo mentions knowing Holly has to leave early for class and says he and Lani can continue solo after that. Leo talks about the format and begins the podcast.

Philip claims to Kate that Leo was just wondering if he’d ever consider doing a podcast of his own, but he will be swamped with Titan. Philip reminds Kate to open her gift which is a scarf from Monte Carlo. Kate thanks him and invites him to stay for another coffee but Philip says he’s got a lot of work to do. Kate tells Philip that every time she wears the scarf, she will think of what he did to keep his father’s company out of EJ’s hands. Kate reminds him to never do it again and to take care of himself.

Leo begins Stark Raving Mad, saying he covers the news but wants to focus on the good in the world. Leo says today they have an every day hero with them as he introduces Lani. Holly tells Leo about what happened with the mugger trying to steal her necklace. Leo asks how she felt in the moment. Holly admits she was really scared and angry, then he pulled out a knife, and thankfully Lani came around the corner and next she knows, the guy was on the ground. Lani is just glad she was there to help. Leo points out that because she was, a dangerous criminal is off the streets and Holly is safe. Lani calls it incredibly lucky timing and there won’t always be someone walking by so they all have to do their part to stay safe. Lani encourages always being aware of their surroundings and trusting your instincts. Leo asks how Lani knew what to do when she saw Holly being attacked. Lani clarifies that no civilian should ever take on an armed assailant as they should call 911 for help. Lani mentions that she used to be a police officer, so Leo brings up that many people think she should still be.

Mason explains to Tate that after Sophia got out of Bayview, she called the mental health hotline a lot to talk about Holly and how much their friendship meant to her and how much it hurt when Holly betrayed her and talked about her online. Tate points out that Sophia started that. Mason talks about Sophia barely hanging on and he’d be so concerned about her until she called again, but one day there was no more calls. Tate knows Sophia was in a lot of pain, some of which he caused, but she hurt a lot of people too. Tate says it’s not just Holly and asks if Sophia told Mason what she did to his little sister or what she tried to do to his cousin. Mason clarifies that he’s not saying Sophia was innocent as he knows she did terrible things, but she was in crisis and he wishes she dealt with it another way. Tate says he does too as he cared a lot about her. Mason admits a big part of him blames himself for not being able to stop Sophia and he took it out on Holly, which Marlena has helped him realize wasn’t completely fair. Mason talks about how Sophia talked about Holly so much, so when he heard her name, he had a visceral reaction. Tate understands that Sophia taking her life hit Mason really hard. Mason says it did for a lot of reasons, but Marlena told him that sometimes, no matter how much you try to help someone, you just can’t as it’s beyond control, but once they are gone, you can control how you respond to the loss. Tate says he gets that. Mason says he’s trying but it’s so hard to make peace with someone you truly cared about couldn’t be saved, so he feels like he failed when he was needed most.

Philip exits the Pub and runs in to Mason. Philip recognizes Mason’s shirt as being a fellow marine and says he served almost 20 years ago but once a marine, always a marine. They introduce themselves to each other and shake hands as Philip tells him Semper Fi.

After Holly exits, Leo continues the podcast with Lani and asks to talk about why Lani is no longer in law enforcement. Leo says her case was very public and asks Lani what happened in the incident between her and Ray Coates. Lani says without getting in to all of the details, she walked in on Ray about to hurt her mother after he already seriously hurt two members of her family, so she pulled out her weapon and shot him to protect her mother. Leo asks if Lani would return to the force if she could. Lani says absolutely, explaining that being a cop was more than a job for her, it was a calling and part of the life she always dreamed of. Leo says given how she saved Holly, it’s clear she still has the courage, instincts, skills, and all that it takes to be a great cop. Leo adds that Lani wasn’t just a cop, but an incredible detective. Leo says he’s stark raving mad about what happened to Lani and they want to hear from the listeners too after they take a break. Leo tells Lani that wasn’t too bad. Lani thanks him for steering away from the tough stuff while Leo thanks her as he knows it wasn’t easy to talk about. Lani confirms it wasn’t, but she’s glad she did it as it felt really good to finally get her side of the story out.

Kate prepares to leave the Pub when she gets a call from Joy. Kate asks how she’s feeling. Joy asks Kate for a favor. Kate checks the Pub counter and sees her package is there, so she will have their delivery guy bring it to the hospital right away.

Tate catches up with Holly in the town square. Holly asks how it went with Mason. Tate confirms he signed up for the trial and asks if she’s sure she’s okay with this. Holly says Tate needs the clients and their problems have nothing to do with him. Holly guesses they talked about her after she left. Tate says they actually had a good conversation. Holly asks if he told him about Sophia. Tate confirms that he did and admitted that he was being too hard on Holly. Holly guesses that’s progress but wishes he could say it to her face. Holly says she just keeps thinking about Mason saying she’s responsible for what Sophia did and that maybe he’s right. Tate argues that she’s not responsible for the choice Sophia made. Holly argues that she played a pretty big part and could’ve handled it differently. Tate says that’s part of what he and Mason talked about, how they could’ve been nicer to Sophia but he doesn’t think it would’ve changed the outcome. Tate reminds her that Sophia did a lot to hurt her too. Holly says she’s not saying she forgives her for that, but she was dealing with serious mental health issues. Tate feels she’s being way too hard on herself and they are never going to know what really made Sophia snap. Holly then sees a woman on the bench nearby and asks if that’s Sophia. The woman then gets up and walks away as Holly realizes it wasn’t her. Holly worries about her mind playing tricks on her. Tate knows it’s a lot but assures her that Sophia is gone and they all have to find a way to move on. Holly calls it really hard when you wish you could make things right with the person, but can’t because it’s too late as Tate hugs her.

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Days Update Tuesday, September 29, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Leo is bringing boxes to his room at the Salem Inn and drops one on his way which comes open. Philip walks by and offers help. Philip picks up a leopard print bag that fell out of the box and questions what the hell it is.

At the Hernandez house, Gabi greets Rafe, who comments on her not sleeping at home last night as he heard her just come in an hour ago. Rafe correctly guesses she was with Philip and asks if they are back on. Gabi confirms they are giving it another go and that she’s happy, which Rafe says is all that matters. Rafe offers her coffee but she says she will grab some on the way to work. They hug as Gabi then exits. Rafe checks his phone and then Cat arrives, saying she thought Gabi wasn’t going to leave. Rafe asks what’s going on. Cat informs him that EJ thinks she’s still with the ISA, despite everything she’s done to assure him that she left the agency and even with confirmation from Paul, EJ flat out doesn’t trust her. Rafe says he told her they would cross that bridge if EJ was still suspicious when he got back from Italy. Cat reveals that she already did, so Rafe questions what she did. Cat informs Rafe that she did the only thing that would prove she wasn’t working for EJ to spy on him, she quit.

Johnny is at home with his laptop when he gets an e-mail from George, revealing Melinda Trask’s statement with Destiny’s wrongful death suit against the hospital and Sarah. Johnny says they have to be kidding and shuts his laptop. Johnny calls EJ, leaving a message saying he knows he’s behind this lawsuit but he has to stop. Johnny argues that he cannot frame Sarah to deflect from DiMera’s involvement in Destiny’s death as it is not right. As Johnny hangs up, Chanel comes in and asks if everything is okay. Johnny responds that it’s not.

Sydney greets EJ in the living room of the DiMera Mansion. EJ asks what she has planned for the day. Sydney says she isn’t sure but she’ll find some trouble to get in to. Xander then storms in to confront EJ. EJ remarks that it seems trouble has found him. EJ introduces Sydney to Xander. Sydney decides to go and exits. EJ tells Xander that was rather discourteous. Xander tells EJ they need to talk. EJ says now’s not the time but Xander stops him and says that’s too bad. Xander says he knows what EJ is doing and he will not get away with it. EJ mocks Xander’s therapy and tells him to accept what he can’t control. EJ remarks that he’s having the time of his life dismantling Victor’s legacy and there’s not a damn thing he can do about it. Xander says this isn’t about Victor or Titan, it’s about Sarah. Xander states that EJ is railroading Sarah and promises he will not get away with it.

Johnny tells Chanel that he’s sorry but he has to go. Chanel says not until they finish their conversation from yesterday because what he said worried her. Chanel questions him saying that Theo quit DiMera because of something EJ did. Johnny calls it something bad and says things are getting worse, but he’s going to put a stop to it before things go any further. Johnny swears to tell Chanel everything, but right now he doesn’t want to burden her with information that could put her in a difficult position. Johnny says all she needs to know is that he needs to go do this. Johnny asks her to understand that. Chanel decides that she is choosing to trust him and hopes it’s not a mistake. Chanel says she will take the kids out for some fresh air and goes to get them. Johnny pulls out his phone and calls Sydney, who asks if he’s feeling any better today. Johnny responds that he’s actually feeling worse and asks if they can meet.

Leo brings Philip in to his room and explains that the boxes are the Gabi Chic rip-offs. Philip questions if he’s the one ripping Gabi off. Leo asks if he thinks he’d be stupid enough to be running a counterfeit ring from his hotel room and says he’s helping Gabi as she gave him the money to buy the bags. Philip questions how that is helping her. Leo explains that he’s infiltrating the counterfeit companies by pretending to be a legit customer and buying the bags so that they trust him. Philip feels that this is a job for the FBI. Leo says he tried that but they have bigger fish to fry. Leo says with this purchase, he got himself in on the ground floor and now he can work his way up to proving that the person behind this is EJ DiMera. Philip then tells Leo to tell him more.

Rafe argues that Cat was working for EJ to spy on him while Cat says she couldn’t let EJ figure that out. Rafe questions her just quitting instead. Cat says she realized that if she was working for the ISA, she would never walk away from her access. Rafe argues that’s what she did and without working for EJ, she doesn’t have the access to get close to him, so her mission effectively just ended.

Chanel sits in the town square with Olivia and Trey as Gabi comes by. Gabi asks how she’s doing. Chanel says she’s okay minus not getting much sleep with the kids. Chanel asks how she’s doing. Gabi says she’s fine and just heading to the office. Chanel asks if she has a minute to talk about Johnny.

Sydney meets Johnny at DiMera Enterprises and asks what’s going on. Johnny says he’s been thinking about her advice that he needed to stand up to EJ. Sydney knows it’s easier said than done, but urges that he needs to set clear boundaries and hold his ground. Sydney reminds Johnny that he’s the CEO, not EJ, and tells him to demand respect. Johnny agrees but he’s afraid it won’t be enough to get him out of the mess he’s in.

Cat argues that Rafe has wanted her involvement in the mission to be done for months which Rafe says is not true. Cat points out that he’s disagreed with every decision she’s made in it which Rafe says was to keep her safe. Cat feels he wanted her gone while Rafe insists he wanted her alive. Rafe argues that Cat thinks she knows EJ but she doesn’t know him at all and if he finds out she’s been playing him all along, he will do things that she cannot even imagine. Rafe admits he is glad that she’s distanced himself from that monster. Rafe says now Cat can finally have a quiet life away from the ISA without worrying if her family will be hurt or divided loyalty. Rafe asks if this isn’t the life Cat always wanted.

Xander tells EJ that he’s not going to destroy Sarah’s career with bogus allegations. EJ questions why this is Xander’s cause and if it shouldn’t be Brady fighting Sarah’s battles. Xander responds that Sarah has a whole army fighting for her because they both know what really happened to Destiny and what almost happened to Holly. EJ claims to have no idea what he’s talking about. Xander says that EJ assumed Sarah filed the anonymous FDA complaint and then out of nowhere, Sarah gets sued for wrongful death. Xander calls it no coincidence, saying he knows EJ is behind it as a warning to Sarah to back off the Coriseal investigation. EJ remarks that a patient died because Sarah failed to treat her properly and her family deserves justice, so he hopes they get it. Xander responds that they will when the truth comes out that Destiny really died because of contaminated pills produced by DiMera Pharmaceuticals and then EJ tried to pin it on innocent doctors as part of a giant coverup. EJ tells Xander that there will never be evidence that DiMera Pharmaceuticals engaged in any wrongdoing whatsoever. Xander says he can keep telling himself that.

Leo asks Philip for thoughts on his plan. Philip says he had him at nailing EJ because he’d love nothing more than to bring him down, plus he cares about Gabi. Leo guesses he doesn’t just care about Gabi, he’s smitten, and asks if he senses a reunion between them. Philip confirms that he and Gabi are giving it another go. Philip asks Leo what his next step is. Leo says now that he’s established himself as a serious buyer, he plans to ask for a face to face meeting with the boss. Philip asks if he then uses more of Gabi’s money to buy another room full of purses. Leo calls it a means to an end as the purchases will lead him to the distributor which will lead him to the manufacturer. Philip tells Leo that he knows something about this world and that he doesn’t want to follow the supply chain, he wants to follow the money. Leo asks how to do that. Philip responds that it won’t be easy and guarantee the cash he used has probably already been gambled, laundered, and tucked away in an account far away. Leo talks about thinking he knew the fashion industry but money laundering and gambling is out of his wheelhouse. Leo adds that it’s not out of Philip’s, so he’s thinking since his plan is clearly lacking, perhaps Philip could do a little digging since he has the relevant experience, knowledge, and connections that could bust EJ a lot faster. Leo asks if he’d be willing to delve back in to that seedy underworld to see what he could find out. Leo reminds him that it’s not for him, but for Gabi.

Gabi questions Chanel wanting to talk about Johnny. Chanel clarifies that it’s more about his job since Gabi was CEO of DiMera once. Gabi thought she’d be given that position again but it went to Theo. Gabi admits she wasn’t happy about that but notes that Theo just resigned. Chanel asks if things shift in the future since the company charter requires a DiMera be CEO. Chanel notes that Theo is leaving, Tony and Chad aren’t interested, EJ is otherwise occupied, and Sydney is happy with her work in Italy. Gabi questions what exactly she is asking. Chanel points out that as Stefan’s widow, Gabi is technically a DiMera, so she’s wondering if Gabi is interested in the job.

Rafe reminds Cat that she never wanted to rejoin the ISA. Cat says after everything that happened with her family and Clyde Weston, she was very happy leading her uncomplicated life until Shane Donovan brought her back in and said she was perfectly positioned as Marlena’s assistant to gather intel on EJ and bring the DiMeras down. Cat says she felt she had no choice but to help. Cat adds that they aren’t done since she signed on and was committed so seeing this through to the end. Cat says it’s not like her to leave a job unfinished. Rafe questions if that’s not what she is doing. Cat explains that she’s playing the long game with this and that she has a family to look after. Cat notes that Mark is probably losing his job when EJ loses the hospital, so it’s all going to fall on her shoulders. Rafe says he isn’t following if she just quit. Cat responds that EJ isn’t going to let that stick.

Xander says EJ must be really worried about what could happen to DiMera since he’s working so hard to frame Sarah and manufacturing evidence. EJ responds that there’s no need to manufacture anything since Destiny dropped dead in the town square after Sarah treated her and that’s all the evidence they need. Xander argues that they know his investigation is rigged and that he altered Destiny’s medical records after she died to make it look like Sarah was covering up a mistake. EJ calls it more than just a mistake and that Sarah was negligent. EJ talks about Destiny coming to the clinic, complaining of severe pain while Sarah misdiagnosed her with a simple flu and sent her on her way and then a few hours later, she was in the morgue which was the very definition of negligence. Xander argues that he was there when Destiny collapsed and Sarah did everything in her power to save her. EJ asks if Sarah ever expressed any regret or doubt about how she treated or failed to treat Destiny, or if she ever blamed herself for what happened. Xander questions why EJ gives a damn about any of this. EJ calls the lawsuit a black mark on the free clinic which was his crowning achievement of him owning the hospital and he won’t have it sullied by one doctor. Xander disagrees and calls this retaliation.

Sydney asks Johnny what has changed. Johnny says it’s the way EJ is moving forward and taking everything way too far. Sydney asks what else is new since he knows who EJ has always been. Johnny argues that the problem is who he’s started to become. Johnny says he helped EJ cover up the illegal stuff going on at DiMera and he hates himself for constantly keeping secrets from everyone and acting like EJ when he swore he never would. Johnny doesn’t think standing up to EJ and holding the line is going to be enough to make this right, so he has to do more. Sydney asks like what? Johnny declares that he has to come clean to the police.

Gabi tells Chanel that she’s sorry but she has no interest in going back to DiMera and is happy to be out of there. Gabi asks if she’s asking because Johnny wants out too. Chanel responds that she has no idea what he wants, but she knows he’s miserable there and she just wants an option where Johnny can walk away without feeling disappointed in himself. Gabi understands why she wants Johnny out of that job, but says with everything she’s going through, this is not stress that she needs. Gabi wishes there was a way she could help her. Chanel says she’ll just keep trying because being at the company is definitely not what’s best for Johnny, their family, or their marriage. Gabi agrees that DiMera is toxic from the CEO down to the interns and she hopes that Johnny finds a way out.

Sydney questions Johnny wanting to turn EJ in to the police. Johnny feels he doesn’t have much choice. Sydney argues that he and EJ could both go to prison which means Johnny would be separated from Chanel and the kids. Johnny says the last thing he wants to do is leave them or put his own father behind bars, but says he can’t let this go on as people have died. Sydney tells Johnny that she doesn’t want details because if he tells her any more, she would be legally obligated to tell what she knows and testify in court. Sydney states that she may not be able to stop him from narcing on EJ, but she can stop him from making her do it.

Cat tells Rafe that she’s made herself indispensable to EJ. Rafe asks if she doesn’t think he can find a new assistant. Cat says that with all the fires she’s put out for him, he doesn’t want to find someone new. Cat adds that she made a personal connection with EJ as he opened up to her and confided in her. Cat feels EJ will miss that and want it back because they were getting really close. Rafe questions Cat genuinely believing that EJ needs her and wants only her so badly that he will welcome her with open arms. Cat responds that she’s counting on absence makes the heart grow fonder.

Leo tells Philip that when all is said and done, to think about how grateful Gabi will be to the hero who stopped EJ from profiting off of her hard work and then they will all live happily ever after. Philip thinks he’s laying it on a little thick. Leo feels if he does this, Gabi will fall madly in love with him all over again. Leo adds that then he can appear on his podcast and the entire world will know what a hero is. Philip admits he would like to repay Gabi for everything she’s done for him and his family, so he agrees to do some digging but notes that his connections are more in the gambling world. Leo assures that Philip will get all the credit he deserves. Philip warns Leo to just be careful because these operations are never just about counterfeit goods. Leo says that he knows the counterfeit merchandise funds an illegal empire and that they are going to follow that stream all the way to EJ.

EJ reminds Xander that Titan’s loan due date is fast approaching. Xander brings up EJ thinking he was going to get Victor’s house too, but Dominic Marino beat him out. Xander asks who Dominic is to the DiMeras anyway and what the connection is there. EJ responds that he wishes he knew.

Philip tells Leo that he will try to catch Gabi on her way to work and let him know what he finds out. Leo tells Philip that he’s so sorry he lost his family home as he’s sure that was heartbreaking for all of them. Philip says he did his best to stop it. Leo tries to encourage him as Philip then exits.

Johnny tells Sydney to just forget he said anything but she says she can’t do that. Sydney asks him not to go to the police. Johnny asks if he’s supposed to just do nothing. Sydney tells him to let the FDA investigation play out and not give them any information they won’t find on their won. Johnny doesn’t know what they’re going to find but guesses it won’t be anything good. Johnny declares that DiMera needs to make this right. Sydney tries to argue that he doesn’t have to throw EJ under the bus to do that. Johnny points out that he has a wife and two kids and he knows she knows that it’s better if he comes clean now with what knows than gamble on getting away with murder. Sydney says he didn’t murder anybody. Johnny says he doesn’t intend to. Johnny jokingly asks if Sydney has any interest in the CEO job. Sydney tells him not to joke about that but says she has no interest as she likes working for Dante, far away from this family drama. Johnny tells her that’s not possible in this family as it will follow her where ever she goes.

Xander comments on all of Stefano’s clues leading Chad and Belle directly to Dante’s door but EJ still has nothing on him and then he swoops in to buy the property that EJ desperately wanted. Xander calls that humiliating. EJ responds that humiliating is losing his father’s company that he built to him. EJ adds that Victor would be so disappointed in him. Xander talks about letting the house fall in to the hands of EJ, the devil they know, or Dominic Marino, the devil they don’t. Xander says they definitely made the right decision because nobody could be more of a thorn in their side than him. EJ supposes they will find out soon enough as Xander then exits.

Philip finds Gabi in the town square with Chanel. Chanel starts to ask if they are back together, but gets a text from Johnny wanting to see her at home. Chanel tells Gabi that it was great to see her and says goodbye to her and Philip as she exits with her babies. Philip tells Gabi that he just had an interesting run in with Leo Stark and ended up in his room full of Gabi Chic knockoffs. Gabi explains that Leo is helping her nail EJ. Philip adds that now, so is he. Philip tells her that he told Leo that he has to follow the money and he can assist with that. Gabi asks how. Philip talks about knowing the gambling world when Leo doesn’t, so he offered to use his expertise and connections to help the cause. Gabi reminds Philip that he promised he was done with gambling after Monte Carlo. Philip assures that he has no intention of playing, he’s just going to connect a few dots but he likes that she cares. Gabi says she does care and now she’s worried too. Philip promises that she doesn’t have to worry and it will be fine.

Cat notes that Rafe seems conflicted. Rafe says on one hand, he thinks it would be nice if EJ hired her back because he thinks they have a real chance of taking him down, it would be a shame to abort the mission, and admits he would miss working with her, but on the other hand, he’s also thinking that it would be best for her if she was to walk away from EJ and leave him in her rearview mirror for good.

Sydney walks through the town square, surprising Philip and Gabi as they weren’t expecting to see her again so soon. Sydney says she thought it would be nice to reconnect with family but she’s not so sure about that. Sydney questions what happened to Gabi’s engagement ring. Gabi admits that she and Philip are not engaged. Philip says at least not yet. Philip then explains that they had to tell a little white lie to get Gabi in to the poker game. Sydney cuts him off and says she can’t handle any more lies and secrets, so she will see them around and hurries off.

Philip left the poker chip he was carrying around at the Salem Inn, which Leo picks up.

Xander walks past the Brady Pub and screams in frustration about EJ. Xander pulls out his phone and texts Marlena about meeting for a session, but she responds that she’s not feeling well and isn’t sure when she’ll be back in the office, advising him to keep using the strategies they’ve discussed.

Chanel joins Johnny at home and says it’s a miracle that Trey and Olivia are both napping at the same time. Chanel asks if Johnny did what he needed to do. Johnny says not yet as he wanted to see her one last time first. Chanel repeats that she trusts him and wishes he would share some of the burden with her. Johnny says he will tell her everything when it’s all over, but he doesn’t want to put her in a position to be implicated. Johnny hugs Chanel and tells her that he loves her so much as she and the kids are his whole world. Chanel feels there must be something she can do to help. Johnny tells Chanel to just keep being the amazing mother she is and try not to worry too much. Chanel says it’s too late for that as she goes to check on the kids. Johnny pulls out his phone and calls Rafe. Rafe says it’s been a minute and asks how he is. Johnny admits he’s not very good and that he needs to see Rafe right away.

Cat walks in to the town square and comes across EJ. Cat takes a seat at a table. EJ starts to approach, but stops and walks away.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, October 8, 2026

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Recap written by Suzanne

Jada escorts an enraged EJ to the police station for a tense interrogation. While he aggressively refuses to confess, he realizes Johnny was the one who blew the whistle on his crimes. Chanel urges her husband to prioritize their family over his father, right before she heads to the hospital to celebrate a major personal triumph by ringing the victory bell to mark the end of her chemotherapy treatments. Meanwhile, Marlena shocks Belle with a massive bombshell, revealing a birth certificate that implies Belle might have another biological brother named Dominic.

At the same time, Dante arrives in Salem with a personal message from Dominic, catching a home-coming Sydney completely off-guard. Elsewhere, Paulina continues relentlessly applying pressure to the governor to secure a full pardon for Lani so her daughter can finally return to law enforcement. Far from town, a stunning twist unfolds when Kristen tracks a lead to a diner out of state, shocked to discover that Sophia actually survived her deadly attack and is very much alive.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, October 7, 2026

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Recap written by Suzanne

EJ is firmly on the warpath as he corners Rita, aggressively demanding the absolute truth regarding Dominic and whether he might secretly be Stefano’s long-lost son. Undeterred by his intense intimidation tactics, Rita holds her ground and defiantly fires back with a dangerous threat, vowing to expose his deepest secrets if he refuses to back down. Meanwhile, Leo finds his short-lived good streak abruptly shattered when Shawn shows up to place him under arrest after authorities uncover a stash of counterfeit fashion merchandise.

Over at the hospital, Rachel’s terrifying health crisis quickly escalates, forcing her to undergo emergency surgery and leaving an utterly frantic Brady with no choice but to place an urgent call to the fugitive Kristen for help. Simultaneously, Joy desperately doubles down on her manipulation of Alex by faking paralysis to garner sympathy, but her elaborate scheme hits a massive snag when Sarah and Tate catch her flinching.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, October 6, 2026

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Recap written by Suzanne

The Kiriakis clan bands together to execute a wild plan to deliberately sabotage the mansion inspection, hoping to kill the impending property sale. Maggie, Philip, Sarah, Kate, Xander, and even Roman get their hands dirty by trashing the estate to ensure it fails to pass. During the chaotic plot, a highly charged emotional moment passes between Sarah and Xander, drawing them closer. However, the temptation of a nearby poker game looms large for Philip, threatening to pull him back into his old, destructive habits.

Meanwhile, Rachel suffers a sudden, terrifying medical crisis at the hospital, leaving Brady absolutely frantic. He faces an impossible dilemma when forced to consider reaching out to fugitive Kristen to return to Salem for their daughter’s sake. Elsewhere, Gabi approaches Theo with a plan to help her systematically take down EJ. While a brief one-day facial change makes Theo look a bit different to those around him, he steps up to the plate and makes a stunning counteroffer regarding exactly what he expects in return for his help.

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Days Short Recap Monday, October 5, 2026

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Recap written by Suzanne

Johnny finally hits his breaking point regarding the medical cover-up and makes a massive move by turning over incriminating evidence against his own father to Belle and Jada at the police station. Meanwhile, Chanel provides steady support for her husband during this incredibly tense family betrayal. Over at the hospital, Kate catches Joy hiding muscle relaxers as she schemes to weave a web of lies about her condition, ultimately manipulation Alex into asking Stephanie if Joy can move into their place.

In other parts of town, Kate uncovers something highly suspicious buried within the legal paperwork for the final sale of the estate property. Sensing a deceptive plot, she immediately approaches Maggie with a strategic idea to help her regain leverage. At the same time, Chad checks in with Shawn to express his deepest sympathies regarding the painful loss of the family mansion.

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Days Update Monday, September 28, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

At the Pub, Brady tries to encourage Sarah that everyone knows she’s one of the best doctors while Sarah worries that this is bigger than Salem as Melinda is going to go on national television to accuse her of wrongful death of a patient and lying about it. Brady assures they are going to prove her innocence while Sarah wonders if it will even matter by then, questioning what will happen to her reputation if Destiny’s parents accuse her of wrongful death of a patient. Sarah panics that people will just think she’s an incompetent doctor who killed one of her patients. Xander arrives and says he got Sarah’s text, asking what’s going on. Sarah informs him that she just got some really bad news.

Theo runs in to Paulina in the town square. Paulina says they need to talk. Theo asks if it’s about what happened at Small Bar. Paulina says it’s not about the very thirsty look he gave a very married woman, but about him quitting his job.

Stephanie goes home to Jada’s apartment and hears Kelsey crying inside of her and Alex’s apartment across the hall. Stephanie pulls out her phone and texts Alex to ask if everything is okay. Alex says not exactly as he opens the door to see her.

Joy remains in her hospital bed and uses her phone to search what muscle relaxer would interfere with a nerve conduction study or how many anti spasmatics it would take to mess up a nerve test. Joy complains that it doesn’t understand the question and calls it useless as she tosses her phone aside to the ground. Joy then looks around and quickly gets up to retrieve her phone and gets back in the bed before anyone sees her and that she was able to use her legs.

Steve goes to see Marlena, who tells him that he just missed Roman as he stopped by with an update on Dominic and Dante. Steve reveals he has an update too. Marlena asks if Sami is in trouble. Steve says it’s nothing like that, so Marlena asks what it is. Steve informs her that with Bo and Hope’s help, they were able to find Dominic Marino’s birth certificate. Steve then hands his phone to Marlena. Marlena sits down with it to read the birth certificate, revealing the birth certificate shows his full birth name as Dominic Nero Marino DiMera and lists Dominic’s parents as Stefano and Marlena, leaving Marlena in shock.

Alex tells Stephanie that he’s tried everything with Kelsey. Stephanie tries to offer to help but Alex says he doesn’t think that would be a good idea. Stephanie questions if he really thinks someone would report him for violating his custody agreement because she was around Kelsey for two minutes. Alex says she has no idea how badly he wants her help but he just can’t risk it.

Theo tells Paulina that Abe was right that DiMera was never the place for him as he can’t trust anyone in that snake pit. Paulina asks if that includes Johnny. Theo says not anymore. Paulina exclaims that she knew EJ was corrupting Johnny and that this is exactly what Chanel doesn’t need with a new baby and chemo. Theo doesn’t think she needs to worry about Chanel while Paulina argues that he just told her that her husband is turning to the dark side. Theo doesn’t know if he would take it that far. Paulina points out that whatever it is was serious enough for Theo to quit his job. Theo responds that Johnny made some bad business decisions, but he knows that Johnny will do anything to protect Chanel and their family.

Sarah informs Xander about Destiny’s family suing her for wrongful death. Xander argues that she did nothing wrong and that EJ is abusing his power while he still can. Xander declares that he told Sarah filing that complaint would put a target on her back and he was right.

Marlena questions how Steve found the birth certificate. Steve responds that Bo and Hope found it. Steve explains that when he heard Marlena was having memories of her time on the island, he sent them there to see what they could find and they found that. Marlena declares that she doesn’t and won’t believe that she and Stefano are Dominic’s parents.

Stephanie questions Alex not letting her try to help with the baby just for a minute. Alex wishes he could and knows the no contact for a year is going to be rough, but if there’s a violation of that, it would give Joy legal grounds to keep her away from Kelsey even longer. Alex asks Stephanie not to be upset. Stephanie argues that it’s hard not to be when she’s treated like she’s a dangerous threat to her husband’s child. Alex says he’s just trying not to make the situation worse. Alex knows she’s not a threat and looks forward to the day that Kelsey gets to know Stephanie and loves her. Stephanie worries that Joy could tell Kelsey that she’s not a good person, unstable, or trigger happy. Alex states that Joy has been through a lot and she’s been hard on Stephanie, but she would never poison Kelsey like that and he wouldn’t allow it. Stephanie questions how he will stop her. Alex asks if they can stop worrying about a year from now, pointing out they don’t know what the future holds and suggests maybe Stephanie and Joy could find a way to get along or have some kind of friendship which would be the best thing for Kelsey and maybe Joy will realize that. Stephanie says she wouldn’t count on it. Alex declares that the only thing he’s counting on is for them to find a way to spend some time together because he misses her a lot. Stephanie says she misses him too. Alex says he promised to get Kelsey to the hospital before visitation is over. Stephanie asks when she will see him again. Alex admits he doesn’t know and he’s sorry but he can’t make any promises. Alex then heads back inside to Kelsey and shuts the door.

Sarah questions why Xander is looking at Brady when it was her decision to file the complaint and he had nothing to do with it. Xander argues that Brady didn’t try to stop her. Brady says he respects Sarah’s right to make her own decision. Kayla gets a text from Stephanie that she needs to see her. Sarah tells her to go and they can talk later. Kayla promises to do everything she can to help her. Kayla tells them to tell Steve where she went if he comes back. Kayla tells Xander and Brady to put their issues aside and focus their energy on helping Sarah. Kayla promises they will make this go away as she exits.

Paulina hopes Theo is right that whatever Johnny’s bad business decisions won’t end up hurting Chanel. Theo repeats that Johnny will do anything to protect his family and says he better get going. Paulina stops Theo to ask if he will be at the baby shower tomorrow. Paulina knows it might be a bit awkward with Johnny there, but she knows Chanel would love having him there. Theo agrees to think about it as he walks away.

Kayla meets Stephanie at Small Bar and asks how she’s doing. Stephanie admits she’s not great as it’s really wearing her down being apart from Alex. Stephanie says they get five minutes together every other day and that time is stressful and miserable. Stephanie talks about wanting to help Alex with Kelsey but he wouldn’t let her because he was afraid of violating the custody agreement. Stephanie argues that no one was around to report back to Joy. Stephanie understands Alex wanting to keep her apart from Kelsey when someone might see them but not when it’s only the two of them. Kayla understands Alex is being overly cautious while Stephanie calls it totally paranoid with no consideration of how it affects her. Kayla says she’s sorry that it’s so difficult for her. Stephanie complains that it boggles her mind that a child they had no idea existed until recently has turned their whole life upside down.

Marlena tells Steve that she’s been working so hard since losing John to find some peace of mind and now it’s being taken away from her. Steve knows John would want him to remind her that she has the strength and resilience to handle anything. Marlena remarks that John always had more faith in her than she ever had in herself. Steve knows it’s a lot to take in. Marlena asks if Steve thinks the birth certificate is authentic. Steve confirms that it seems to be, but the only way to know for sure is to find Dominic Marino and run a DNA test. Marlena admits that as much as she doesn’t want to believe it, she thinks it might be possible that she is Dominic’s mother. Marlena says ever since they learned of Dominic’s existence, she was afraid this might happen. Marlena adds that she never said anything out loud, but she realized because of his approximate age that he would’ve been born while they were on the island where Stefano controlled everything and that would confirm it. Steve says he will again invoke John by telling her that if John was here, he would move Heaven and Earth to find the truth. Steve knows he’s no substitute, but promises to do everything that John would’ve done to get her the answers and peace of mind she needs.

Alex brings Kelsey to Joy at the hospital and says he thinks Kelsey misses her mom. Kelsey then stops crying. Joy says she can’t wait to come home to her. Alex wants to get Kelsey in Joy’s arms but Joy says no and that she can’t. Joy says her arms are affected too and feeling really weak right now. Joy tells Kelsey that she misses her so much and hates being apart from her, but she really hopes it won’t be much longer.

Kayla tells Stephanie that she knows it feels like the universe is conspiring against her. Stephanie says at least Joy does. Stephanie knows she should have empathy for Joy being unable to walk and care for her child. Stephanie remarks that she’s not one to judge as it’s not like she’s all that virtuous. Kayla asks what she’s being so hard on herself for this time. Stephanie admits she wasn’t going to tell her because she’s so ashamed and it’s making her feel like she can’t trust herself or she’s not who she thought she was.

Xander tells Sarah that he will do everything he can to prove this was a setup. Sarah appreciates that but asks if he really has time to play detective with Titan. Xander says he will make time. Brady points out that Xander is not single handedly going to clear Sarah’s name. Brady reminds him that he’s the private investigator with a partner to help while he questions what skills Xander brings to the situation. Xander argues that his skill is his determination to do whatever he can to help Sarah. Xander assures that nothing means more than clearing the mother of his child and it’s even better if they can take down EJ in the process. Brady says he gets it but remarks that he actually knows how to do it, unlike Xander. Xander then mocks that Brady has been a private investigator for over 15 minutes. Brady argues that he has personal experience in taking someone down and that if Xander wants to work with them, there has to be a couple of ground rules. Xander stops himself and concedes that Brady is the expert. Xander tells Brady to make the ground rules and promises not to break them. Brady says he just wants to make sure Xander doesn’t go rogue. Xander repeats that he won’t break his rules and that he does want them to work together on this for Sarah’s sake.

Joy tells Alex that she really appreciates him being there for Kelsey and thanks him for stepping up as he has. They talk about Kelsey looking like the both of them. Joy hopes Kelsey grows up to be as kind as he is. Joy says in spite of all the awful things that have happened since she came back to Salem, she sees him and Kelsey together and knows that she had to for her sake because Kelsey needed a father in her life and she’s so grateful that she gets the one she deserves.

Stephanie informs Kayla that she was at Small Bar last night with Theo, having a few drinks and sharing what they’ve been going through lately. Stephanie admits there was a moment where they stopped talking and almost kissed. Stephanie says the way she was feeling in the moment and the way he was looking at her, she would’ve kissed him if Paulina didn’t walk in and interrupt them. Kayla asks if she’s saying she wishes Paulina hadn’t interrupted.

Marlena tells Steve that she appreciates him but wants to make sure he keeps it just between them. Steve assures that he will and that she can trust Bo and Hope. Steve wants to ask to include Brady since he knew Bo and Hope were looking in to this and he wants to bring him up to speed so they can work on the case together. Marlena says she understands. Steve asks if there’s anything else he can do for her. Marlena tells him to go back to work and find Dominic. Steve promises they will, adding that Paul is bringing in ISA resources while he and Brady will keep working the case from every angle. Marlena tells Steve to let her know if there’s anything she can do to help. Marlena declares that she doesn’t need protection, she needs the truth.

Sarah says that Brady and Xander working together and not competing means a lot to her. Xander repeats that he will follow Brady’s rules. Brady gets a text from Steve and says he has to get to the office. Brady kisses Sarah goodbye and promises that they’ve got this as he exits.

Alex asks Joy if there’s any updates from the doctors. Joy says there’s no changes except her insurance won’t pay for her to stay much longer. Alex points out that she would go to rehab but Joy says she can’t with Kelsey. Joy says she has to go somewhere together to get the help they need. Alex is sure they’ll find her a place. Alex says he should get going since visitation hours are almost over and they’ll be back tomorrow. Alex thanks Joy for getting Kelsey to sleep. Joy thanks him for bringing Kelsey, saying it really was the best part of her day and that having them both there always is. They say goodnight as Alex then exits with Kelsey.

Stephanie admits to Kayla that at the time, she did wish Paulina didn’t interrupt them and she hates herself for it. Kayla wishes she wouldn’t be so hard on herself, pointing out that she’s understandably been so lonely since she and Alex have hardly spent any time together at all lately. Stephanie questions that excusing her being attracted to another man. Kayla asks if she is attracted to Theo. Stephanie responds that in that moment, she was, but maybe it’s just a case of if she can’t be with the man she loves, she’ll love the man she was with. Stephanie insists that she and Theo are just friends but it was being with someone who was solely focused on her and not running off for his kid or his kid’s mother that felt so nice. Kayla questions if Stephanie is worried that being around Theo again might go further than almost kissing. Stephanie responds that she worries that being apart from Alex this much shows her marriage isn’t as strong as Kayla and Steve’s. Stephanie talks about them being apart for years and being tempted to give up on each other but they didn’t. Kayla states that she always felt she could never love anyone the way she loves Steve. Stephanie knows he feels the same about her. Kayla asks if Stephanie feels that way about Alex and if she thinks their marriage is strong enough to withstand everything they are going through now.

Xander and Sarah exit the Pub together and run in to Alex with Kelsey. Xander assumes Alex heard about Philip’s great news. Alex confirms that Justin told him and he meant to call to congratulate them, but he’s been a little distracted with Kelsey and Joy. Sarah asks how Joy is doing. Alex says they just came from the hospital and it’s so sad seeing her unable to move her legs and says he feels so helpless. Xander relates to how he felt after Sarah’s accident. Xander tells Alex that his daughter got him through as he knew she needed him to be strong and positive, so he was for her. Xander calls Victoria his heart and his greatest blessing. Alex says Kelsey is his. Xander encourages that Kelsey will give him the courage to face anything. Alex thanks him for saying that and hugs him, saying he needed to hear that.

Joy gets a text from her dad that she should get the muscle relaxers he sent tomorrow morning. Kayla comes in to let Joy know that they rescheduled her nerve conduction study and moved it from 2 PM to 10 AM tomorrow morning, so hopefully they will get answers even sooner. Kayla tells Joy that she will see her tomorrow and to have a great sleep as she then exits.

Stephanie runs in to Theo in the town square. They agree that they think last night may have been a mistake. Theo understands they were both in a bad place emotionally while Stephanie says they just got carried away. They claim to both be glad that Paulina showed up before they did something they’d both regret.

Brady meets Steve at Black Patch and asks if he heard from Bo and Hope. Steve confirms that they found Dominic’s birth certificate and says he was shocked, so he’s sure Brady will be too. Brady asks him to just tell him. Steve reveals to Brady that Stefano is named as Dominic’s father and Marlena as his mother. Brady can’t believe it and asks if Marlena knows. Steve confirms that he just told her and she told him he could let Brady know, but no one else. Brady asks how she took it. Steve says she’s questioning whether it’s true and is praying it’s not, but Dominic’s age lines up with having been born during her time on the island. Brady says even after everything Stefano has done to all those people. Steve wishes he could tear him limb from limb, but all they can do now is find Marlena the answers she needs, by any means necessary.

Marlena looks at a photo of John on the mantle and says she’s trying to be strong and she knows she has people around her like Roman, Steve, and Brady who are helping but they just aren’t John. Marlena cries that she’s not sure she can get through this without him.

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Days Update Friday, September 25, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Sarah and Kayla go to the hospital. Sarah talks about trying not to be nervous about the wrongful death lawsuit in hopes they won’t find anything. Kayla says they will go over the files to make sure. Sarah talks about not blaming Destiny’s parents for filing the lawsuit. Sarah calls it so obvious that EJ put the idea in their head because of the timing. Kayla encourages that she’s not in this alone and that she’s made it clear to EJ and his minions that going after her won’t make their problems go away because she’s not the only one who knows what they have done.

Philip meets Gabi in the town square. Gabi has champagne, saying she figured they should commemorate their engagement before it’s officially over. Philip toasts to that and says it was fun while it lasted. Gabi jokes that it was also profitable. Philip notes that now that it’s over, he is going to need Maggie’s ring back, so he removes it from Gabi’s finger.

Chad goes to the Spectator office and welcomes Kate to the team, saying he’s super excited that Jack decided to bring her on board. Chad says he’s sorry he hasn’t been there since she started and that he was late today because of a lunch date. Kate jokes that his lunch date left some lipstick on his collar and guesses their trip to Italy went well which Chad confirms. Chad says he and Belle were hoping to find some answers, but unfortunately came home with more questions. Chad adds that they aren’t giving up just yet and Kate might just be able to help them.

At the Black Patch office, Steve finishes a call as Brady arrives with coffee. Steve informs Brady that he just finished a call with Bo, who said he and Hope made it to the island where Marlena was held by Stefano and are heading straight for the lion’s den. Brady remarks that it’s a good thing the lion is dead.

Marlena is asleep on her couch at home and has dreams about Stefano’s island until she’s woken by a knock at the door. Marlena gets up and answers the door to see Roman.

Philip tells Gabi that even though it was only a prop for appearances, it felt funny asking for the ring back. Gabi understands he had to since it was Maggie. Philip admits it still looked really great on her finger and he has fond memories of proposing. Philip jokes that if it was a real proposal, they would’ve taken thousands of photos and videos to post on social media. Gabi thinks it’s kind of nice to cherish the moment in their minds instead of on a screen. Philip agrees and says he’ll remember that next time he proposes to someone for real. Gabi is glad to know the ring is going back to it’s rightful owner. Philip hopes Maggie isn’t too annoyed with him for borrowing it without asking. Gabi encourages that she won’t notice it’s been missing. Gabi asks how it went telling his family that he’s a hell of a poker player and their savior, joking that they could erect a statue in the Kiriakis Mansion. Philip says not exactly as it turned out Xander and Maggie sold the mansion before they got the money, so Titan is saved but the house is gone. Gabi says she’s so sorry. Philip talks about it being sold to a faceless billionaire who will paint over the marks on the wall or knowing about where Victor grew up. Philip declares that everything meaningful about the Kiriakis Mansion will soon be just a memory.

Sarah asks Kayla if she told EJ that she knows about the Coriseal scandal. Kayla clarifies that she told Rita and she’s sure she reported back to EJ immediately, so now he knows if he wants to hurt Sarah, he’s going to have to go through her first. Sarah calls that really generous of her but says when she filed the complaint, she didn’t intend for anyone else to become a target and worries about what if EJ and his minions come after her. Kayla says to let him try. Kayla declares that she and Steve have learned if you want to take on the DiMeras, you have to prove that you are not afraid of them.

Steve tells Brady that the island may be a dead end, but since the clues were intended for John and Marlena, it’s possible that Stefano thought it would make Marlena think of the island. Brady asks if he really thinks Bo and Hope might find Dominic Marino there. Steve calls it possible or they might find a clue that leads them to him. Brady wonders if Dominic is the solution to this puzzle rather than just another piece of it. Steve says to imagine Dominic hands them another clue. Brady hopes it doesn’t turn in to another 39 clues. Steve states that he wouldn’t put anything past Stefano, but he hopes they find some real answers soon for Marlena’s sake.

Roman asks Marlena if it’s not a bad time. Marlena says she was just reading and fell asleep. Roman says he spoke to Sami about the Dominic and Dante business. Roman adds that apparently Dante never talked about Dominic, so Sami called to ask him and Dante says that he only sporadically kept in touch with him and has no idea where to find him now. Roman notes that Sami insists that Dante had nothing to do with whatever Dominic is up to. Marlena hopes she’s right.

Chad tells Kate about Marlena not being happy about their trip, but it was important to he and Belle, so they need answers. Kate respects that Marlena didn’t want to play Stefano’s games, but assures she would’ve gone full Nancy Drew if Stefano left her the chess set. Chad says that’s why he’s trying. Kate asks how she can help. Chad then shows Kate the photo of Stefano holding a little boy dated 1992 and asks if she’s ever seen the boy before.

Kayla tells Sarah that she sees nothing in the files to support a wrongful death lawsuit, so she thinks Sarah is in the clear. Sarah calls it a relief as she couldn’t shake the feeling. Sarah then finds an asterisk next to a test result and questions what that means.

Brady asks Steve if Marlena knows where Bo and Hope are headed. Steve thought it would be best to keep Marlena in the dark until they have something concrete to share. Brady says that’s definitely the right call as Marlena was very stressed out just knowing that Chad and Belle were in Italy looking in to this. Steve adds that the time on the island was very unsettling for Marlena for a lot of reasons.

Roman tells Marlena that he knows it’s hard to take Dante’s word when they haven’t even met him. Marlena points out that he’s engaged to their daughter and worries that Sami could be in danger. Roman tells her not to go there. Marlena asks how they can’t when they know Dante is connected to Dominic. Roman suggests not making assumptions. Marlena says it bothers her and terrifies her that there’s so many unanswered questions and so much they don’t know. Marlena brings up having fragments of memories and says they came to her again just before Roman knocked on the door. Roman asks if they are memories about the island and the blanket with the Celtic knot. Marlena confirms it was but says this time there was a voice, saying the name Dominic. Marlena reveals that the voice sounded like Roman.

Kate tells Chad that she doesn’t recognize the little boy and asks if he has any theories about who it might be. Chad says they think it’s Dominic Marino and asks if that name rings a bell. Kate confirms that it does.

Philip tells Gabi that he’s sorry as he doesn’t mean to sound ungrateful since he is still thrilled they got the company back and he’ll never forget what Gabi did to make that happen. Gabi says Philip has thanked her enough but Philip feels it’s never enough. Philip adds that once they build Titan back to the powerhouse it once was, the stock she bought will give her a big return on her investment, but it might take awhile. Gabi responds that she’s a patient woman and she’s in this for the long haul.

Sarah tells Kayla there’s a footnote on the back, saying the test results were edited by Sarah Horton the day after Destiny died. Sarah argues that she did not edit the results and would not do something like that. Sarah asks if Kayla believes her. Kayla assures that she does. Sarah swears that she has never edited a test result in her life, adding that Destiny’s tests never came back abnormal. Sarah complains that someone is trying to make it look like she did and that this could end her career. Sarah asks how she fights this.

Gabi asks where Philip plans on staying now that the Kiriakis Mansion has been sold. Philip informs her that he had his stuff sent over to the Salem Inn and was planning to head there after meeting her. Gabi asks if he’d like some help unpacking.

Kate tells Chad that Dominic Marino is buying the Kiriakis Mansion and he’s another reclusive billionaire. Kate asks why Chad thinks he’s connected to Stefano. Chad explains that they found the picture in Dominic’s home in Rome while following Stefano’s clues, but that’s not all they found.

Steve asks Brady how much Marlena has told him about her time on the island. Brady says that she doesn’t talk about it much but John gave him an overview and he knows it’s where Stefano forced Marlena to be the surrogate for Cassie and Rex. Brady can’t believe what Stefano put Marlena through. Steve says that because of his sick games, Marlena is forced to relive that over and over again.

Roman questions Marlena about him saying Dominic’s name in her dream. Marlena says she doesn’t know anything for sure and maybe her mind is playing tricks on her. Marlena talks about thinking about Dominic and her time on the island and she knows Roman was there around that same time, so maybe her mind is making connections that don’t really exist. Marlena then tells Roman to forget everything she said.

Chad tells Kate about Dominic even having a collection of Stefano’s Cuban cigars that he had specially made. Kate calls it incredible because Stefano must have had this all set up years ago. Chad acknowledges that Stefano loved his games and manipulating people. Kate says that Stefano lost his quest for immortality but his game of chess continues on. Chad guesses they are all just pieces on the board. Kate declares that if this really is another game, the only way it ends is when Stefano wins.

Marlena complains to Roman that she thought this was all behind them. Roman insists that it is because the island changed their lives but Stefano is gone and can’t hurt them anymore. Marlena wishes she could believe that. Marlena wishes she never went to the reading of the will and that Belle never pursued this. Roman doesn’t think that would make a difference. Roman declares that there was clearly something or someone that Stefano wanted Marlena to know about. Marlena responds that not knowing is what terrifies her.

Sarah and Kayla meet Brady and Steve at the Pub. Sarah thanks Steve for meeting on such short notice. Steve asks if they should wait for Xander. Sarah says she texted him but he’s probably busy so they should get started. Brady notes that she’s obviously shaken and asks what this is all about. Kayla explains that they were just reviewing Destiny’s files to prepare for the wrongful death suit and it was made to look like Sarah edited the test results after Destiny’s death. Sarah argues that they know she would never do that. Sarah complains that she was the one looking for answers. Brady knows she would never do that and it has EJ written all over it. Steve gets a call from Bo and says he has to take it, so he steps away to answer. Sarah knew EJ would come after her after she filed the FDA complaint, but worries that she could lose her license. Brady encourages that she won’t and that EJ will go down for this, not her.

Gabi helps Philip unpack in his hotel room. Gabi jokes about Philip wearing his lucky boxers to a high stakes poker game. Philip points out that they worked. Gabi thought she was his good luck charm. Philip jokes about it being a 70/30 split between her and the boxers. Gabi tells Philip that before they start unpacking, she thinks they need to unpack what happened last night between them. Gabi needs to know if what happened in Monte Carlo was just adrenaline-fueled celebration sex or if he thinks there might be a chance for them after what happened. Philip responds that he was on one of the greatest highs of his life and he didn’t plan for what happened next, but now that they are back in Salem, he thinks it’s safe to say that winner’s high is over. Philip adds that he’s still thankful they saved the company, but bummed about losing the house, so he guesses he’s pretty much at his baseline then. Gabi tells him to forget she said anything and that what happened in Monte Carlo stays in Monte Carlo then. Philip guesses he was being his usual incoherent self because the point he was trying to make was that even now as baseline Philip, he looks at her and still feels the same way he did in the hotel room in Monte Carlo. Gabi asks what he’s saying. Philip responds that he’s willing to give this another shot if she is, as they then kiss.

Chad tells Kate that it’s hard to imagine what Stefano winning would look like in this situation, but they have to keep going as they are so close. Kate says she completely understands and asks Chad to keep her updated which he agrees to do. Kate gets a text from Leo and says he’s driving her Stark raving mad with suggestions about the launch of the podcast tomorrow. Chad calls the podcast a great idea and loves that Kate is already shaking things up around here. Kate remarks that shaking things up is what she does best, for better or worse.

Roman tells Marlena that he knows it’s hard to relive painful memories, especially without John, but says he’s still there and she can lean on him whenever she needs to. Marlena admits that helps and thanks him.

Brady says even though they know EJ is behind this, he doubts that EJ actually changed the files himself. Sarah agrees while Kayla says EJ could’ve given somebody else access to the hospital computer system. Brady suggests doing a forensics search of the system to find out who did this and hopefully clear Sarah’s name. Kayla adds that connecting that person to EJ would be criminal conspiracy. Brady agrees it would be a lot more trouble than just with the FDA. Steve comes back so Brady asks if he got an update from Bo. Steve responds that he has to go. Sarah asks if Brady needs to go with him. Steve tells Brady to stay and deal with the EJ thing as there’s someone he has to see and it’s probably best that he goes alone.

Gabi and Philip have sex in Philip’s room.

Chad gets a call from Leo, who tells him about the FDA investigating DiMera Pharmaceuticals. Chad questions if there’s nothing EJ won’t do.

Sarah asks if Brady and Kayla really think cyber forensics can trace this back to whoever did it. Brady says he does but Sarah guesses he’s still worried that the altered test results are just the start of EJ’s revenge plan which Brady admits. Sarah doesn’t want to sit around and wait for the other shoe to drop, asking how to get ahead of EJ. Sarah then gets a call from Justin that upsets her. Sarah thanks him for letting her know and hangs up. Sarah then declares to Kayla and Brady that the other shoe just dropped as Melinda Trask is representing Destiny’s parents and tomorrow they are going to make a televised statement to accuse her of wrongful death.

Kate runs in to Roman in the town square and says she was just thinking about him, hoping they could have dinner together tonight. Kate asks if Roman is okay. Roman responds that he was just with Marlena as she’s been having memories of her time on Stefano’s island. Kate says she told her about that and Chad told her about the quest for the missing pawn and the mysterious Dominic Marino. Kate knows there’s certainly things that would trigger Marlena. Roman asks if any of it means anything to her. Kate says no, but she knows they have to be there for Marlena. Roman knows she will appreciate that. Kate declares that what happened on that island to the three of them ties them together forever, so no matter what happens with the mysterious chess game, Marlena has to know they are there for her and she doesn’t have to face it alone.

Steve goes to see Marlena, who tells him that he just missed Roman as he stopped by with an update on Dominic and Dante. Steve reveals he has an update too. Marlena asks if Sami is in trouble. Steve says it’s nothing like that, so Marlena asks what it is. Steve informs her that with Bo and Hope’s help, they were able to find Dominic Marino’s birth certificate. Steve then hands his phone to Marlena. Marlena sits down with it to read the birth certificate, revealing the birth certificate shows his full birth name as Dominic Nero Marino DiMera and lists Dominic’s parents as Stefano and Marlena, leaving Marlena in shock.

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Days Update Thursday, September 24, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Lani and Paulina are at Chanel and Johnny’s apartment. Lani talks about the full moon last night but notes Paulina being distracted. Paulina says she’s just looking up plans for Chanel’s baby shower. Chanel then comes in from taking a nap and asks Paulina not to throw her a baby shower.

Leo runs in to Chad outside of the Pub and is excited to see him as he asks about his trip to Italy. Chad says it was wonderful and questions Leo being dressed up in a suit. Leo excitedly talks about his new podcast and informs Chad that he sort of has a date with Javi. Chad is excited for him while Leo talks about being nervous. Chad encourages Leo that he’s got this as Leo walks on and then Chad heads in to the Pub to meet Belle. Chad greets her with kisses and asks what’s on her mind. Belle responds that she’s really worried about Sami.

In the town square, Sydney tells Johnny that she’s been thinking about staying in Salem longer and asking Dante if she can work remotely for a little while. Sydney asks Johnny if she should stick around. Johnny responds that he wouldn’t if he were her. Sydney questions why not since he’s always talking about how happy he is there with Chanel. Johnny responds that if he could snap his fingers and move his family back to Italy, he’d do it in a heartbeat. Sydney doesn’t understand what changed. Johnny guesses everything has ever since he became CEO of DiMera, which he calls the biggest mistake of his life.

EJ goes to his office in the hospital and finds Cat packing things up, so he questions what is going on. Cat tells him that the hospital is going to the state board so Kayla said she should start packing him up, so she is. EJ says it’s the first he’s heard of it and questions why she didn’t tell him. Cat tells him that he knows damn well the hospital is an afterthought, just like she is. Cat declares that ever since she told EJ that she used to be ISA, he’s been cold and distant, which EJ admits.

Chanel reminds Paulina that they talked about this and she wants no baby shower, arguing that Olivia already has everything she need. Lani points out that it’s not just about gifts, but the celebration. Chanel gets that their hearts are in the right place, but she’s not up for a big party right now, and asks them to stop whatever they are planning. Paulina says the last thing she wants is to go against her wishes. Chanel thanks her for understanding. Olivia wakes up crying, so Chanel goes back to the bedroom to check on her. Lani guesses they will just cancel the baby shower then, but Paulina declares that she will not let the cake and party favors go to waste. Paulina adds that as Chanel’s mom, she knows what’s best for her and now the shower will be even more of a surprise.

Belle informs Chad that Dante and Dominic were roommates in boarding school and now Dante is engaged to Sami while connected to the guy they’ve been looking for. Belle adds that the whole thing has been weighing heavily on Marlena. Belle feels there are too many coincidences and that it’s adding up to something that could affect all of them.

Leo meets Javi for coffee in the town square. Leo insists on being chill and not trying too hard as they toast to being in this moment.

Sydney questions Johnny about why Theo quit and talks about Tony raving about how brilliant Theo was going to be at DiMera. Johnny responds that Theo is a brilliant guy, who is good and honest, which is why he kept him in the dark about everything going on at DiMera. Sydney asks if he means the kind of culture that Stefano spearheaded which Johnny is now up to his eyeballs in. Johnny calls it a nightmare and says he keeps telling EJ that there’s a line that he’s not comfortable crossing, but he just keeps moving it. Sydney tells Johnny that he can either quit or hold the line, reminding him that he’s the CEO of DiMera, not EJ.

Cat tells EJ that she spoke to Chad, who confronted her about being in the ISA which was shocking since she thought that was a private conversation between them. Cat adds that Chad mentioned Paul verified that she was in the ISA and severed ties years ago. Cat guesses that even with Paul’s confirmation, EJ doesn’t believe her.

Javi admits to Leo that he was little nervous about getting together. They talk about international fashion week and having to catch up on a lot of Desperate Housewives. Leo talks about having an old photo of Javi from when they had Trey that he looks at a hundred times a day, then apologizes for not being chill. Javi says it’s okay and asks how they can be chill when talking about something so amazing. Leo agrees that it’s impossible.

Belle talks about how she and Sami are usually fighting and not getting along, but she still doesn’t want her to get hurt. Chad relates to usually disapproving of everything EJ does, but he’s still his brother. Chad calls it pretty obvious that Cat and EJ have feelings for each other, so he’s sure it shocked EJ to find out that Cat was in the ISA. Belle guesses he wasn’t the only one.

Johnny assures Sydney that he’s reminded EJ who the CEO is and she can guess how that went. Sydney advises Johnny that if EJ thinks he’s just an actor in his play, he should tear up the script. Johnny responds that she’s always been more successful at doing that. Sydney says that EJ always felt bad for what she’s been through and them living on separate continents, so he’s always danced to her tune while it’s not the same with Sami, who thinks Johnny can do no wrong. Johnny says that may be true, but he’s glad she’s not paying too close attention right now because he’s done plenty wrong. Sydney asks if it’s really that bad. Johnny calls it complicated but he’s determined to turn it around and make it right. Sydney asks him to tell her. Johnny responds that he will be taking a huge risk that could blow up his entire life and cost him everything.

EJ tells Cat that there’s no such thing as former ISA as it’s not a code, but a life sentence. Cat reminds him that she was just an analyst. EJ questions if it really matters. EJ points out that she was still on the team and for his whole life, his family has been in their crosshairs. EJ adds that the ISA would take an unassuming desk worker to get access to him. Cat complains that she thought he knew her better and that she was loyal to him. Cat adds that she only told EJ that she was with the ISA because she found herself growing closer to him and didn’t want any secrets between them, yet there are secrets between them and they are his.

Leo apologizes to Javi as he promised no flirting and that he would turn off the charm. Javi laughs off that he’s charming no matter how hard he tries not to be and he can’t turn it off as it’s just who he is. Javi says that’s the Leo he knows and then gets interrupted by a work call. Javi suggests they try dinner on his day off next time. Leo tells him to just let him know when as Javi then exits. Sydney tells Johnny that she knows he’s in a tough spot but reminds him that the best way out is always through. Sydney quotes their great Grandma Caroline in telling Johnny to always look to his better angels. Johnny gets a text and says he has to get back to Chanel and the kids. Johnny thanks Sydney as they hug.

Chanel tells Paulina and Lani that she got Olivia back to sleep and then gets a text from Johnny that he’s on his way home. Lani asks if they’ve heard the big news and announces that Theo quit DiMera which shocks Paulina. Chanel notes that Johnny had not mentioned that to her. Lani says maybe he doesn’t know yet, but she ran in to Theo, who told him that he left his resignation letter on Johnny’s desk so maybe he’s reading it as they speak. Chanel doesn’t understand since Theo was doing so well, so it doesn’t make sense. Lani says that Theo didn’t say and guesses she’ll have to ask Johnny.

Chad tells Belle that he shouldn’t be surprised that Cat was in the ISA since she’s obviously a skilled liar. Belle brings up what she put Chad through by impersonating Abigail. Chad talks about being so embarrassed by that while Belle understands he wanted to believe it. Chad declares that Cat is nothing like Abigail in any way, but he can’t help but wonder what Abigail would think of all this. Chad thinks Abigail would be pissed at him for being so gullible while Belle encourages that she would understand he wanted so badly for Abigail to be alive. Belle knows Chad still misses Abigail. Chad says he probably always will. Belle asks if the kids talk about her much. Chad says not to him, but he hopes they do to each other. Chad talks about Charlotte looking like Abigail and telling her that her mother always lives on in her heart. Belle tells Chad that she’s so sorry everything with Cat is bringing back such painful memories for him. Belle asks if Cat ever explained why she didn’t tell Chad that she was in the ISA. Chad says that she told him she didn’t think it was important and she didn’t go to the ISA about Clyde in order to protect her family. Chad adds that instead, Cat put his family through Hell.

EJ questions Cat saying he has secrets and claims he’s an open book. Cat asks why he didn’t open up to her then about the Coriseal FDA complaint, his secret lab, Kristen’s disappearance, or his mysterious trip off to Italy. EJ remarks that he had no idea she was keeping tabs on his every move. Cat argues that everything she’s asking him about is public knowledge and she’s also his personal assistant, so her job is to be aware of the happenings in his life and take care of his needs. Cat adds that she didn’t look at it as a job because for some reason, she cared about him. Cat remarks that EJ has a lot going on in his life so it’s convenient for him to take it out on her. EJ argues that maybe it’s convenient that she got to be his assistant and confidant by talking her way in to that job at the right time.

Paulina and Lani walk through the town square. Paulina insists that Chanel will love the surprise baby shower. Lani says she was pretty certain that she didn’t want it but Paulina argues that mom knows best when it comes to both of her girls. Lani questions what she’s done and if she should be worried. Paulina assures it’s a good thing as she believes it’s time to right an egregious wrong that was done to her. Paulina explains that the Governor is reaching the end of his term in his office, so she intends to reach out to him about pardoning her, but Lani says absolutely not.

Johnny goes home and tells Chanel that he got there as soon as he could and says he brought her a surprise. Chanel doesn’t think she can handle any more surprises and starts to explain how Paulina tried to throw her a baby shower. Johnny stops her and says he thinks she’s going to like this one. Johnny then opens the door to reveal Sydney came with him which thrills Chanel as they excitedly embrace.

Belle tells Chad that she’s sorry he’s going through all of that as she knows he cared about Cat. Chad says in some weird way he still does, but he thinks his family was right that it never would’ve worked between them. Chad adds that he’s glad he’s with Belle and praises her qualities as they kiss. Belle talks about wanting to go back to Italy, so Chad says he has an idea.

Chanel tells Sydney that she’s been meaning to video chat forever. Sydney understands they all have busy lives and she knows she’s been going through it, but says she looks great. Sydney asks if she’s feeling okay. Chanel says she’s doing okay minus some nausea but she took a little something to help with that. Sydney is glad she’s doing so well and says she’s so excited about her new baby. Sydney asks if she can peek in on her niece and nephew. Sydney promises to be very quiet so she doesn’t wake them up, but Olivia then wakes up. Chanel is sure she’s hungry and asks if Sydney wants to give Olivia her bottle. Sydney says she would love that, so Chanel takes her to the bedroom.

Paulina doesn’t understand while Lani explains that the last thing she wants is for her past to be dredged up again. Paulina argues that an injustice was done to her and it will follow her or the rest of her life but Lani doesn’t want the Mayor calling in a favor. Paulina asks who will hire Lani when she has to check off that she was convicted of a felony. Paulina argues that Lani has wonderful gifts to share and this is holding her back. Paulina adds that she saw how much she loves law enforcement when she jumped in to save Holly and knows she would jump back in to that life if she could. Leo comes over and interrupts to ask if Lani has given any more thought to his podcast. Lani says she already told him while Leo pleads with her to do it.

Cat says she doesn’t even know what EJ is talking about, arguing that she didn’t talk herself in to a job with him. EJ remarks that the timing was a little too perfect, just like the timing of them being in the same Italian clinic. Cat says she didn’t know who he was back then and calls it a traumatic time in her life that she barely remembered until she started reading Wuthering Heights. EJ mocks that her reading to him was working her way in to his life like a good little ISA agent. Cat insists that isn’t how it was and that they were drawn together by being victims of Clyde Weston. EJ laughs off the idea that her coming back in to his life was fate. EJ remarks that it would’ve been romantic and magical if it hadn’t been for that pesky little secret she was keeping from him. Cat cries that she wanted to tell him so many times and felt incredibly guilty every time they talked about the Italian clinic, which is why she told him the one thing about her that no one on the planet knew, but says that was clearly a mistake.

Chad and Belle go to a hotel room at the Salem Inn with champagne set up in the room as they kiss onto the bed.

Paulina questions the podcast and why Lani didn’t tell her about this. Lani repeats that she’s not doing it. Leo argues that she should and asks Paulina to help convince her. Leo talks about wanting to talk in detail about how Lani saved Holly from the mugger which Paulina thinks is a fantastic idea. Lani insists that she’s not interested and that she was just helping a friend. Leo urges that she could help others as well. Leo calls it her chance to make a difference and asks if she will be his honored first guest on his podcast Stark Raving Mad.

Chanel tells Johnny that Sydney was a natural with Olivia and she’s feeding her now, which gives them a little time to talk. Chanel brings up that Lani told her that Theo quit which Johnny confirms. Chanel then questions why Theo quit and why Johnny didn’t tell her. Johnny responds that he only found out this morning when he got to work and was going to tell her when he got home. Chanel questions him not thinking it was worth a call or a text. Chanel suggests they talk about it now and asks why Theo resigned.

Cat questions EJ not saying anything. Cat brings up that Chad blames her for not going to the ISA when Clyde told her to impersonate Abigail while EJ blames her because he still thinks she’s with the ISA, so either way she can’t win. Cat tells EJ that he won’t have to worry about whether or not she’s lying to him because she quits.

Chad and Belle drink champagne in bed, toasting to an afternoon delight. Belle says this is the life. Chad tells her that whatever happens next with Dominic Marino, they will face together and it will make a hell of an adventure as they kiss.

Lani reluctantly gives in to doing the podcast which thrills Leo and Paulina. Paulina can’t wait to tell the world about her daughter saving the day as she hugs Lani. Lani insists that she was just helping out a friend while Paulina feels she was being brave and badass. Paulina says she has to get to work, so she will let them iron out the details. Paulina then steps away and calls the Governor to ask for a favor.

Johnny tells Chanel that Theo quit because of something EJ did that was wrong. Johnny admits he didn’t handle it very well, but promises to fix it and make amends. Trey wakes up crying, so Chanel goes to check on him while Sydney comes back in to the room. Sydney tells Johnny that he did the right thing. Johnny responds that he hopes so.

Cat tells EJ that she can’t work with someone who doesn’t trust her. Cat says goodbye to EJ and wishes him luck as she exits the office.

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Days Update Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Sydney, Marlena, and Belle eat together at the Brady Pub. Sydney tells them about a date she had in Italy. Marlena can’t believe she was just talking to her while she was in Europe and now she’s here. Sydney says she told her she’d see her soon while Belle mentions trying to call to let her know but promised to make it a surprise. Marlena comments on possibly getting Sami to come visit too.

Maggie goes to see Julie at the Horton house. Julie knows Xander and Philip were there, so she’s hoping they didn’t bring bad news. Maggie says it was just the opposite as they got the money for EJ, so they lost the house but they saved the company. Julie calls that wonderful and says that’s what she was praying for. Maggie says it’s how the money was gotten that worries her.

Theo meets Abe in the town square. Abe asks about his day off. Theo says he went for a run and then took a long walk in the park as he had some thinking to do. Abe asks what about. Theo then tells Abe that he was right that he never should’ve taken the job at DiMera.

Johnny goes to the DiMera Enterprises office and is shocked to find Theo’s letter of resignation. EJ then walks in and questions everything going to Hell while he left for two days. Johnny tries to ask about his trip. EJ brings up the complaint against them filed with the FDA. EJ tells him that the complaint came from Sarah. Johnny says they don’t know that for sure but EJ insists. EJ worries that the complaint could bring down DiMera while Johnny says he’s heard the same speech from George last night. EJ calls it an emergency while Johnny argues that he was trying to get his daughter to sleep, so she wouldn’t wake his wife who is going through cancer treatment and complains that he had to ask Lani to watch his kids. EJ asks Johnny how he is going to handle this. Johnny argues that Sarah has no proof while EJ argues that it doesn’t matter and that the complaint being out there could ruin them. Johnny calls it funny because George said the exact same thing and questions if they are putting their heads together without him. Johnny tells EJ that George insisted the only way through was to take a page out of EJ’s playbook and prove that DiMera could never be responsible because someone else was. EJ asks what Johnny’s plan is. Johnny responds his plan was to work with Theo as he thought he convinced him they needed to work together to protect DiMera from false and unfounded allegations, then he came in and found Theo’s letter of resignation. Johnny declares that he’s going to convince Theo to un-resign, but EJ says he will do no such thing.

Abe asks Theo what happened. Theo reminds him that he told him he couldn’t trust Johnny and he wondered if Johnny was keeping any other secrets. Theo says he was right in that there’s a lot more that Johnny is hiding, so he resigned from DiMera.

Sydney tells Marlena and Belle that Sami has such a busy life in Italy, so a trip back here might not be in the cards right now. Marlena says she understands but it would be nice to see her. Sydney knows she misses her, but visiting Salem can be tricky for Sami since she has many complicated relationships. Belle believes she’s right up there on the list with EJ as far as complicated relationships for Sami. Belle talks about it being hard for Sami that she and EJ were together, but assures they are not anymore and have both moved on. Belle tells Sydney she’s sorry but Sydney says it’s fine as she’s heard Sami’s version with way more curse words. Belle wishes she was closer to her sister, especially because she knows it makes Marlena sad that her daughters haven’t made peace and she’s sorry for that. Marlena says she doesn’t have to apologize as she tried so many times to patch it up with Sami to no avail but admits she hoped she would try to see her while in Italy. Sydney points out that she found it interesting that EJ, Belle, and Chad were all in Italy at the same time. Sydney says she heard a little bit of hush hush conversation on the flight back, so she questions if they care to share what’s going on as Belle and Marlena look at one another. Belle explains that she and Chad were following the clues to Rome, EJ tagged along, and they found themselves in Dominic Marino’s home. Sydney says they went on a real life treasure hunt and realizes that’s why EJ asked if she knew Dominic Marino before they left. Marlena asks if she does. Sydney says she’s heard of him as everyone in Europe has but she doesn’t know him personally. Belle mentions hearing that he’s a bit of a recluse with almost no public profile. Sydney says that EJ had questions about a business deal which Dominic is involved in and guesses that was a lie. Belle encourages that EJ was just trying to keep her safe. Sydney argues that she’s not a child and can handle whatever it is. Belle then gets a phone call and steps away to answer it.

Julie tells Maggie that she can’t believe one person could win that much money in a casino and wonders if Victor reached down to help Philip from the great beyond. Maggie thinks Victor would’ve hated all of the damage that Philip’s gambling brought on him and the family in the past. Julie recalls Philip getting in debt to the Vitali family and having to launder money to pay it off. Maggie says in the end, Victor cleaned it up but not before Ava put a hit on Philip and Brady ended up getting shot. They agree that doing business with criminals is not the wisest choice. Julie understands Maggie might be worried that Philip would get caught up again. Maggie says that Philip swore it was a one time last ditch effort to save the company, but notes that he also led her to believe he wouldn’t resort to gambling in the first place to get the money. Julie guesses Maggie must have tried to talk him out of it which she confirms. Maggie worries that if Philip lied that easily then, how does she know he’s not lying to her now.

Theo tells Abe that Johnny is involved with shady dealings at DiMera, but he lied right to his face when he confronted him, so he couldn’t stay any longer. Abe says he’s sorry as he knows Theo wanted to turn the company in to a force for good. Theo says he did to honor Lexie since she told him that he could make DiMera something better, so that was his intention. Abe assures that she would be very proud of him as he is, for making up his own mind about accepting the job and leaving it, and staying true to who he is.

EJ tells Johnny that he doesn’t need Theo. Johnny remarks that Theo’s integrity would get in the way of his coverup while EJ argues that his incompetence would get in the way of the company thriving while they need a CEO with a spine and a leader who will do whatever it takes to protect the family. Johnny declares that he’s sure as hell not that person. EJ tells him to relax. Johnny complains that Theo just resigned because he’s disgusted with him and says he’s disgusted with himself for lying to his wife, his Grandmother, his sister-in-law, and that he’s constantly trying to justify and make excuses for the things he does for EJ. Johnny says he told himself it’s for the greater good when nothing about it is good. EJ complains that Johnny has been listening to the naysayers about the DiMera name and they are poisoning his mind. Johnny calls that an interesting choice of words. Johnny argues that he’s already done so many things that he’s not proud of and every time he tries to draw a hard line, EJ just pushes it further. EJ calls that another part of the DiMera playbook. Johnny says screw the playbook and screw you as he declares this is all stopping right now. Johnny tells EJ that he’s the CEO of DiMera, so EJ can’t tell him what to do, and if he doesn’t like how he’s running things, that’s too damn bad. EJ applauds him for showing the spine he’s looking for. Johnny complains that he doesn’t want to be like EJ as trying to listen to him got them under investigation by the FDA. Johnny calls it EJ’s mess but says he’s going to clean it up for him the right way. EJ admires his passion but says he’s not experienced enough to handle this on his own and he needs his help. Johnny responds that he doesn’t need anything from him and they are done. EJ gets a text from George that he’s waiting for him at the house. EJ warns Johnny not to do anything until they speak again as he exits the office. Johnny tosses Theo’s letter of resignation in frustration.

Maggie tells Julie that as an addict herself, she knows the lies they tell and feels Philip should’ve known better after what happened in Chicago. Julie asks if she can tell her what happened in Chicago. Maggie explains that’s where the trouble with the Vitalis began because Mimi Lockhart asked Philip to a poker party and before he knew it, he was millions in debt to the mob. Maggie worries that if a business venture fails, Philip could do the same thing over again. Maggie talks about caring about Philip like her own son, as she knows Victor would want. Julie encourages that if Maggie stays on at Titan, she can keep Philip reined in and also relaunch the business that Victor created so she thinks it would be a win-win.

Belle finishes a call with Paul and informs Marlena and Sydney that Paul did a deeper dive in to Dominic Marino and it turns out, he went to a very exclusive boarding school and reveals that Dominic’s roommate was none other than Sami’s fiancée, Dante Vitali, which shocks Sydney. Sydney says that Dante never even mentioned going to boarding school. Belle questions what she does know about Dante. Sydney assures that he doesn’t give mafia vibes and has no connection to the Vitali family. Sydney mentions that when she met Dante, she liked him right away. Marlena points out that Sami has made some pretty bad choices in men. Sydney insists that Dante is a good guy, who treats Sami like a queen and treats her well too. Sydney adds that working for him has been great so far. Belle questions Dante never mentioning Dominic Marino. Sydney asks why he would and says she never said anything about her roommate in boarding school either. Belle points out that her roommate wasn’t a billionaire. Sydney doesn’t know why they are making such a big deal of this and remarks that Dante being Dominic’s roommate hardly makes thim the devil.

Julie tells Maggie that she does not condone gambling but it seems that Philip wasn’t doing it for a cheap thrill, but to step up for his family. Maggie admits that he did, because he blamed himself for what they were going through with Titan. Maggie assumes that’s because of Philip’s relationship with Victor as he always felt he was letting him down. Maggie says she tried to assure him that it wasn’t solely his fault and urged him to forgive himself. Maggie adds that most people involved in Titan exhibited bad judgment at some point. Maggie says she certainly has regrets as she’s made some terrible mistakes. Julie responds that she has too. Julie thinks the one advantage of growing old is time to stop dwelling on old mistakes and get on with your life. Julie says Maggie shows so much compassion and wisdom about Philip, so she asks if there’s a chance she can show some of that grace and forgiveness to herself because she really deserves it.

Abe asks Theo what his career plans are. Theo responds that Gabi offered him a job at Gabi Chic and he told her he’d think about it, but he just doesn’t know if that’s the right path for him right now. Theo says that’s why he wanted to meet because he regrets not taking Abe’s advice about not taking Tony’s offer at DiMera, so he hoped to get Abe’s advice now, which Abe calls a father’s dream.

EJ goes home to the DiMera Mansion to meet George. EJ tells him that he just saw Johnny and he doesn’t think that he’s on board with what he needs to be done. George agrees that he got the same feeling. EJ says that Johnny wants to handle it on his own, but he reminded him of what’s at stake and instructed him not to do anything until they speak again. George says he spoke with Rita and it appears Sarah filed the FDA complaint to deflect blaming herself, but in the end, Sarah is the only one who will be found culpable.

Sydney tells Marlena and Belle that she can ask Dante about Dominic Marino if they want to know more but Belle says that’s okay. Sydney says she’s going to meet Johnny after work and she wants go get gifts for Trey and Olivia, joking that she’s going to spoil both kids. Sydney hugs Marlena and says goodbye as she exits the Pub. Belle then tells Marlena that she does not like this Dominic and Dante connection one bit. As Sydney exits the Pub, she runs in to Johnny and they joke about their childhood as they hug. Sydney questions him not being at work. Johnny says he needed a break, so Sydney she guesses she gets more time with her big brother. Johnny suggests they get ice cream.

Theo tells Abe that there are many reasons to accept Gabi’s offer since Gabi Chic is a great company, profitable, and expanding around the world so there would be many new opportunities, but things have not been that good between he and Gabi since he’s been back in town. Theo states there’s some prior history that could come in to play if he accepts her offer. Abe responds that everybody has some complicated history with Gabi. Theo explains that he thought they were friends until she thought the worst of him. Theo says he told Abe about this but didn’t tell him who he was talking about. Abe asks how Gabi thought the worst of him. Theo explains that she thought he went behind her back and betrayed her. Abe guesses she doesn’t know him very well if she thought that. Theo acknowledges that Gabi came to him and apologized for it. Abe asks if he thinks her apology was genuine. Theo confirms that he does and that Gabi said she needs help with a project at Gabi Chic that aligns with his interests, but he doesn’t know how to decide. Abe encourages that Theo is smart as hell with a very strong moral compass. Abe points out Theo choosing to leave DiMera after seeing things going wrong, so he advises Theo to trust himself.

EJ warns George that he better hope this works. George assures that it will and the heat will be off DiMera and EJ won’t take the fall. EJ worries that he’s putting an awful lot of trust in George, so he hopes it’s not misplaced. George insists that he can count on him. EJ says that George says that, but he counted on him to make sure the contaminated pills were disposed of correctly and they ended up in someone’s drinking water and people died because of it. EJ points out that George is still head of DiMera Pharmaceuticals and it’s his job to make sure this goes away as it never should’ve come back to haunt them. George promises to make it go away once and for all. EJ says he’s glad to hear that. EJ warns that if for any reason it does not go away, George will be the one taking the fall.

Julie and Maggie talk about cooking for Chanel’s baby shower. Julie mentions canceling a dinner date with Foster and ordering gifts for the baby shower. Maggie argues that Julie didn’t need to cancel her dinner date with Foster. Julie says she already did it and it’s fine as she wants to spend the evening with Maggie, adding that it’s been years since they’ve been together in the kitchen. Maggie agrees it’s been too long. Julie tells Maggie that she’s so sorry the money didn’t come through in time to save her home, but the silver lining is they get to spend time together. Julie says she’s so grateful that Maggie is there with her now. Maggie responds that she’s grateful to be there and to have Julie in her life as they hug.

Belle asks Marlena about her saying that Sami hasn’t made the wisest choices in men. Marlena talks about Sydney only having glowing things to say about Dante, but it’s hard to believe that Dominic’s former roommate would meet Sami and suddenly propose marriage. Belle agrees that it would be one hell of a coincidence.

Theo thanks Abe for the coffee and says next time it’s on him. Abe tells Theo to make decisions that make him happy. Johnny and Sydney walk in to the town square for ice cream, so Theo tells Abe they should go and leave the square. Johnny and Sydney talk about video chatting their sister Allie later. Sydney says she can’t wait to meet Johnny’s kids and didn’t realize how much she missed her family. Johnny says they miss her too and congratulates her on becoming a lawyer. Johnny asks how much time she has off. Sydney responds that it was going to be a quick visit, but there’s so many people she wants to see and catch up with, so she’s been thinking about staying longer and asking Dante if she can work remotely for a little while. Sydney asks Johnny if she should stick around. Johnny responds that he wouldn’t if he were her. Sydney questions why not since he’s always talking about how happy he is there with Chanel. Johnny responds that if he could snap his fingers and move his family back to Italy, he’d do it in a heartbeat.

George gives EJ his word that this will be handled. EJ says to keep him posted as George then exits the mansion. EJ pours a drink and looks up at the portrait of Stefano as he thinks back to the findings at Dominic Marino’s home, wondering what Stefano has done.

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Days Short Recap Friday, October 2, 2026

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Recap written by Suzanne

The legal tension shifts to corporate exposure as Johnny DiMera takes the brave step to meet with Rafe, fully confessing that EJ was entirely aware of the tainted batch of Coriseal and deliberately tried to cover it up. Knowing his own freedom is on the line, Johnny stands firm in his choice to expose the truth, leaving a cornered EJ to desperately panic to Rita about how quickly the walls are closing in. At the same time, EJ’s troubles multiply when he inadvertently overhears a heavily guarded secret that Marlena has been trying to bury. Marlena, meanwhile, directly confronts Rita, demanding to know the truth about who has been pulling the strings to guide Belle right to Dominic.

Away from the high-stakes conspiracies, Salem manages a rare moment of levity during a surprise baby shower thrown by Paulina for Chanel. The event takes a hilariously chaotic turn when a silly mix-up leaves all the guests laughing, giving the expectant mother a brief break from the brewing family storms. However, the peaceful moment remains fleeting as Sydney commits a highly critical and costly error that threatens to completely upend her own elaborate plans.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, October 1, 2026

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Recap written by Suzanne

Salem is hit with major legal and corporate chaos as Melinda Trask takes to national television to publicly accuse Sarah Horton of medical malpractice, alleging her negligence led to a wrongful death. While Sarah reels from this public humiliation, Brady Black offers his support to a distressed Marlena Evans. Marlena is struggling deeply with the mind-bending discovery that she is listed as Dominic Marino’s mother on a birth certificate, leading to dark suspicions that Stefano DiMera or Orpheus may be orchestrating a sinister plot against her family. Meanwhile, Steve Johnson and Belle Black team up to investigate the validity of the mystery surrounding the document.

The corporate warfare escalates dramatically when Philip Kiriakis and Xander Cook completely derail EJ DiMera’s plans. Just as EJ thinks he has the upper hand, Philip and Xander surprise him by presenting a check that fully pays off the Titan loan, effectively saving the family business and handing EJ a massive defeat. Amidst the corporate takedowns, Philip also confesses his risky underworld alliances to Maggie. Elsewhere, Joy Wesley plays a high-stakes, dangerous game as she targets hospital drugs to secure muscle relaxers, desperate to keep Alex Kiriakis trapped in her intricate web of manipulation.

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Days Update Tuesday, September 22, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Philip and Xander excitedly go to see Maggie at the Horton house. Maggie questions why they are grinning from ear to ear. Xander says they have the best news that they just had to come share in person. Philip then announces that Titan is saved.

Holly confronts Mason in the town square. Mason tries to say he’s busy but Holly says he’s going to have to tolerate her. Holly then shows Mason the “are you having fun” text message and asks if he sent it.

At the Black Patch office, Brady tells Steve about Sarah filing the FDA complaint against EJ. Brady explains how they think EJ is already retaliating since Sarah was sued out of nowhere by Destiny’s parents with a wrongful death suit and says the whole thing reeks of EJ. Brady bets EJ got a hold of Destiny’s parents and maybe even bribed them to be complicit in this. Brady feels this is EJ’s way of warning Sarah to get off the Coriseal investigation, but says there’s no chance in Hell that she will.

At the hospital, Sarah tells Kayla that EJ must have been behind this. Kayla says they don’t know that but Sarah feels it’s obvious since the wrongful death suit was filed right after her complaint. Kayla talks about planning to fight it and if EJ is behind it, he will have nothing to hold against her. Rita arrives and says they are just who she was looking for.

Maggie questions how it’s possible that Titan is saved. Philip responds that they have the money needed to pay off the loan, so EJ cannot foreclose on them. Maggie can’t believe it. Philip just wishes they could’ve stopped the sale of the house but it was too late. Maggie then questions how he got the money. Philip admits that he won it, which Maggie questions further and demands an answer as to how he won the money. Philip thinks she knows the answer and asks her not to be upset. Maggie argues that he told her he was not going to gamble again. Philip doesn’t think he told her that. Maggie complains that he certainly led her to believe it. Philip apologizes for that.

Mason asks Holly why the hell he would text someone he hardly even knows. Holly asks why he hates someone he hardly knows. Mason insists he didn’t send the text. Holly asks who did then. Mason questions how he should know and suggests it could be a wrong number. Holly remarks that it could be someone stalking her which has happened before. Mason questions her thinking he’s stalking her, so Holly asks if he is.

Steve tells Brady that if EJ is bribing people to harass Sarah, that means he’s desperate and they are onto something. Brady says he’d love nothing more than to take EJ down, but he hates that Sarah is being dragged in to this. Steve says they both know the lawsuit is bogus and Kayla has Sarah’s back, so they need to focus on nailing EJ for the Coriseal contamination and prove that he’s responsible for what happened to Holly and Destiny. Steve adds that once they do that, Sarah won’t have anything to worry about.

Kayla asks Rita what they can do for her. Rita assumes they’ve been notified about the pending legal action concerning Destiny’s death which Kayla confirms. Rita informs them that the hospital is launching an independent investigation. Kayla assures they will cooperate and insists the findings will see the hospital was not at fault and everything was done by the book. Rita responds that EJ agrees the hospital is not at fault, but that Sarah is another matter..

Mason tells Holly that he wants nothing to do with her, so he questions why he would stalk her. Holly suggests to scare her or punish her. Holly says that Ari told her that he thinks she’s responsible for the death of someone he cares about. Mason then confirms that he was talking about Sophia Choi.

Philip knows Maggie thinks that him gambling was him falling off the wagon, but swears that it was a one off and the only way to win enough. Philip explains that the poker game went really well but didn’t quite cut it, so he had to put some money down on 18 red at the roulette table and that’s why Titan is saved. Xander encourages Maggie to give Philip a break as he only did it because they were so desperate and out of time and options. Maggie asks if Xander knew about this. Xander says only after the fact and suggests they just rejoice that Philip saved the company. Maggie complains that Philip risked relapsing in to an addiction that nearly destroyed him and the family. Maggie brings up how many times she told herself it was one sip before she fell off the wagon. Philip insists that he has no desire to gamble anymore. Maggie tells him that’s enough as he made her believe he was listening to her and respecting her when she warned him not to go down that road again. Philip argues that he always listens to her because she is the wisest person he knows. Maggie says she virtually begged him not to do anything stupid, but he ran off to Monte Carlo and did just the same thing. Philip knows he didn’t heed her advice, but it’s not because he didn’t hear it or think she was right. Philip admits he did consider taking her advice, but he was conflicted and had to make a choice between taking a risk that could rescue their family from a miserable fate, or he could be more selfish and not take a chance on succumbing to his addiction again. Maggie questions him saying what he did was selfless. Philip guesses that he is. Maggie calls that self delusion to spin something self destructive in to something virtuous. Maggie argues that as a fellow addict, she was appealing to him, thinking he had turned his life around, but he was probably wishing she’d shut up. Maggie declares that Philip defied her and that’s classic addict behavior, so she wants nothing to do with this money.

Brady tells Steve that he feels like he’s fighting a two part war with DiMera by going after EJ to protect Sarah while also going after the mysterious billionaire taking his grandfather’s home. Steve mentions that Paul still hasn’t learned anything more about Dominic Marino. Brady notes that Belle did speak to Marlena, who pointed out that the word Marino means “of the sea” and so does DiMera. Steve bets that’s not a coincidence. Brady wonders what the connection could be and if Dominic could really be another DiMera. Steve suggests maybe someone just wants them to think he is.

Kayla tells Rita that it’s ridiculous and questions what gives EJ the right to weigh in on proper protocol for treating a patient unless he went to medical school during his prolonged absence from the hospital. Kayla argues that Destiny’s case was already reviewed by the board and they determined that Sarah gave her the best possible care. Rita argues that Destiny dropping dead indicates to her and EJ that Sarah failed her and that Destiny would still be alive if she gave her the proper care. Sarah tells Rita that she is wrong and that she obviously came here at the behest of a spoiled, vindictive son of a bitch. Sarah adds that Rita is just as morally bankrupt as EJ is. Sarah shouts that Rita is just as oblivious to what’s going on at the hospital and how dedicated every doctor is to healing every patient. Sarah tells Rita to take her accusations and shove it because she will not sit here and be slandered.

Steve and Brady talk about how just when they think they are done with Stefano’s games, another one pops up. Steve adds that the DiMera family seems to be at as much of a loss as they are when it comes to who Dominic Marino is. Brady says Chad certainly has no idea and that he said Tony doesn’t either. Brady adds that nobody has any idea what’s behind the chess set that Stefano left for John and Marlena. Steve says there are two paths they can go down, either assume Dominic Marino is an impostor with his own twisted reasons for stringing Marlena and Belle along or they assume Dominic is a DiMera or somehow connected with Stefano. Steve questions how the hell no one in the family has ever heard of him.

Sarah demands an answer as to if Rita understands her. Rita responds that Sarah is causing a scene and not helping the situation. Kayla isn’t sure what Rita and EJ are trying to accomplish here. Kayla repeats that Destiny’s care was exactly what it should’ve been. Rita questions Destiny being sent home without medication or referrals. Rita adds that they are launching an investigation and suggests Sarah was distracted that night by her divorce or Xander being involved with an ex lover. Sarah insists she was not distracted and followed standard protocol. Rita remarks that they will see what the experts say.

Holly questions Mason about Sophia being a friend of his. Mason says not exactly. Holly asks what that means. Mason says he doesn’t owe her an explanation. Holly argues that he does if he’s going to blame her for Sophia’s death. Holly says what happened to Sophia was tragic and she knows her mom is telling everyone that it was her fault, but declares that Mason needs to hear it from her because she knows he didn’t get the full story.

Xander argues that Maggie can’t be serious as they are saving Titan and beating EJ at his own game even if she doesn’t approve of how Philip did it. Maggie complains that she’s appalled and saddened and Victor would be too. Xander says maybe so, but there’s no way Victor would turn down the money. Philip agrees that Victor may have been mad at first, but if that money kept Titan out of DiMera’s hands, he wouldn’t have cared if they robbed a bank for it. Philip states that as much as they all love Victor, he was no saint. Xander tells Maggie that she doesn’t really have a say in this matter as he and Philip have controlling interest in Titan and they have decided to use the money to pay off the loan and reclaim Titan. Maggie tells them to knock themselves out, but they will be doing it without her. Xander questions what that means. Maggie declares that she’s stepping away from Titan. Philip pleads with her not to do this. Philip appreciates that she worries and cares about him but he doesn’t have a gambling problem. Philip says his Vitali mob days are over and in the past. Maggie argues that Philip deceived her by telling her he wasn’t going to gamble, but he flew off to Monte Carlo to play in a high stakes game. Maggie questions how she can work for someone she can’t trust. Philip argues that he only did it for one game and it wasn’t just for the hell of it, it was for the love of their family and love for her. Philip asks what he can do to re-assure her that he will not gamble again and offers to go to meetings, insisting he gambled this one time to save the company. Philip adds that in spite of defying her, he has enormous respect for her and thinks the world of her. Xander says they don’t want to do this without Maggie and that Titan needs her guidance as he asks her to reconsider.

Holly asks Mason to let her tell him her side of the story, so he agrees to listen. Holly informs Mason that she and Sophia were best friends since they were little until high school when they fell for the same guy. Holly says she didn’t know it at the time that Sophia was crushing on Tate when they got together and then when they broke up the first time, Sophia hooked up with him and got pregnant. Holly says that’s when she got really cruel and talks about Sophia taking half-naked photos of her to send to her professor while she was too drunk to notice. Holly says what was even more hateful is that she tried to amends with her but Sophia switched her skin supplements with anti psych meds. Mason stops her and says he’s heard all of that from Sophia. Holly questions him still thinking she’s to blame for Sophia’s death. Mason responds that Sophia suffered a lot, talking about her mother being controlling and giving birth to her baby all alone, then having to give him up which he thinks is what sent her over the edge. Holly says he’s probably right, but continues to question him thinking she’s to blame for Sophia’s death. Mason states that he thinks she played a big part in it.

Rita warns Sarah that she may want to take a leave until the investigation in to Destiny’s death concludes. Kayla responds that Sarah will do no such thing. Rita remarks that she may not have a choice and says she’ll be in touch as she walks away. Sarah complains to Kayla that Rita is just as evil and corrupt as EJ is. Kayla encourages that Sarah did great and says she was so proud of how she handled Rita. Sarah says she’s outraged by the accusations but questions what if Rita was right that she could’ve done more for Destiny. Kayla insists she did everything she possibly could with the information she had and now they are pretty certain she died of arsenic poisoning. Sarah complains that they can’t prove it and that Rita is insinuating that their investigation will find whatever EJ wants it to find to take her down.

Brady tells Steve that it wouldn’t be the first time a long lost DiMera crawled out of the woodwork. Steve talks about Stefano not knowing about Chad and Lexie, but when he found them, he brought them in to the fold as nothing was more important to him than family. They question the Dominic Marino connection. Steve has no doubt Stefano’s endgame was to lead them to Dominic and questions if Dominic will show up on their doorstep or if they are going to show up on his. Brady says that Dominic has the advantage of knowing where they are. Brady asks Steve if Roman gave him any insight. Steve says that Roman’s never heard the name either, but he did say that Marlena has been having disturbing memories. Steve tells Brady about the Celtic knot and how Marlena started having a memory of that symbol on a blanket during her time on Stefano’s island.

Sarah tells Kayla that she knew EJ would figure out that she was the doctor that filed a complaint about DiMera Pharmaceuticals and that he would want to fight back, but she was not prepared for this. Kayla says leave it to EJ to exploit a young woman’s death like this. Sarah worries that she could lose her license. Kayla encourages that the truth is on her side. Sarah feels that’s never stopped EJ. Sarah worries that Xander was right that it was a mistake to go on the offense against EJ. Kayla tells her not to think that way and praises her as a doctor. Kayla vows that she will not let them lose her.

Xander urges Maggie that they’ve been given a second chance to make Titan the company it used to be and that they are unstoppable. Philip declares that the three of them working together to rebuild the company is what Victor would’ve wanted. Maggie then gives in and agrees to stay because Titan is important to the thousands of employees who depend on them. Philip thanks her and hugs her, assuring she won’t regret this. Philip exclaims that they are back in business. Maggie says she should tell the rest of the family. Xander asks her to keep it to just family for now as they want to let EJ keep thinking they are defaulting on the loan. Philip declares they are going to snatch victory from EJ at the best possible moment. Maggie admits she thinks that’s an excellent idea because of what EJ has put them through.

Mason tells Holly that Sophia had mental health issues and reveals that after getting out of Bayview, she would call the mental health hotline he works at and they would talk regularly. Mason adds that she would talk about how much it hurt when Holly lied to her and betrayed her. Mason says that Sophia was fragile when she ended up in Bayview and Holly knew that, but still posted nasty things about her online and ganged up on her with a bunch of others. Holly says that isn’t true as she hardly said anything and what she did say was the truth. Mason argues that Holly isn’t taking responsibility. Mason explains that he was talking to Sophia right afterwards and he thought he got through to her and thought she would keep fighting, but now she’s gone and they all have to live with that. Mason then gets up and walks away. Mason walks past the Brady Pub and stops, looking down at the dog tags on his necklace. Mason says that he failed them and he failed Sophia.

Maggie goes to the town square and finds Holly, asking what’s going on. Holly responds that somebody blames her for something awful that happened and she tried to explain her side of the story, but they didn’t want to hear it so it made her sad. Maggie asks if she wants to talk about it, but Holly decides that she doesn’t want to think about it and asks how Maggie is doing. Maggie admits saying goodbye to the Kiriakis Mansion won’t be easy since it’s where she and Victor built their life together. Maggie informs Holly that she does have some good news but they have to keep it in the family as she reveals the mansion was sold, but Titan was saved, so they won’t be losing Victor’s company or his legacy after all. Holly calls that amazing and asks what happened. Maggie responds that Philip took a chance and raised the money to pay off the entire loan.

Philip sits alone in the park and pulls out a poker chip from his jacket pocket which he holds onto.

Brady recalls Marlena being stuck on Stefano’s island and says he is now convinced this is all connected and there has to be a reason behind Dominic Marino. Steve says maybe they can’t find Dominic, but they can still find who was leaving clues for Belle and Chad. They talk about how it has to be someone who was close to Stefano. Brady says Dr. Rolf comes to mind but he’s been missing. Steve says Dr. Rolf was more the mad scientist while leaving bread crumbs for Stefano’s victims is not his style. Brady agrees and wonders who it could be. Steve responds that one name comes to mind, who has been doing Stefano’s bidding long before doing EJ’s.

Kayla confronts Rita at the hospital and warns that she will not stand back while she targets anyone on her staff for personal reasons on behalf of EJ. Rita asks what reason EJ would have to target Sarah. Kayla responds that EJ thinks Sarah filed the anonymous complaint with the FDA, but anyone could have filed that including herself, because Sarah isn’t the only one who knows what EJ is done. Kayla declares that she will make sure no intimidation tactics will make what EJ has done go away.

Xander finds Sarah in the town square and excitedly tells her that he was going to call her but it’s so much better to tell her the news in person. Xander informs her that Titan is saved as they have the money to pay off EJ’s loan. Sarah calls that wonderful. Xander says they don’t want it out there just yet but he couldn’t wait to tell her as he wanted to share it with her most of all. Sarah says she’s glad and happy for him. Xander says he’s happy for them as it’s part of Victoria’s legacy too. Xander excitedly declares that they won as he hugs Sarah and says so much for EJ getting the best of them, as Sarah remains looking worried.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, September 30, 2026

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Recap written by Suzanne

Tate runs into Mason, who continues to blame Holly for Sophia’s death, leaving Holly struggling with guilt. Eli encourages Lani to think about what she wants for her future, while Lani and Holly appear on Leo’s podcast.

Kate questions Philip about his gambling after his recent success, and Leo, Gwen and Cat grow closer as they spend time together.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, September 29, 2026

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Recap written by Suzanne

Johnny decides he needs to tell Rafe what he knows about EJ’s wrongdoing, despite Sydney’s fears that they could both end up in trouble. Xander confronts EJ over Sarah’s legal problems and accuses him of being responsible for the lawsuit.

Cat tells Rafe that she has broken away from EJ, while Rafe worries about the consequences. Philip agrees to help Leo investigate the counterfeit Gabi Chic operation, and Chanel approaches Gabi with an unexpected proposal.

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Days Short Recap Monday, September 28, 2026

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Recap written by Suzanne

Marlena is stunned by the possibility that she could be Dominic’s mother and asks Steve to keep the news private while they arrange a DNA test. Steve later confides in Brady, while Marlena struggles with memories of her time on Stefano’s island.

Xander promises to support Sarah as she deals with her troubles involving EJ. Joy’s nerve testing is moved up, adding to her worries. Theo explains to Paulina why he left DiMera, while Stephanie and Theo agree that their almost-kiss was a mistake.

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Days Update Monday, September 21, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Gabi and Philip return to Salem and walk through the town square, talking about last night being amazing. Philip says he couldn’t have done it without his good luck charm as they kiss. Philip asks if she wants to come with him to the house to join the celebration. Gabi says that should be a family thing while she has to get to her office. Philip says he will send her a picture of Xander and Maggie when they find out he actually has the money to save Titan. Gabi isn’t sure she wants to see their faces when he tells them how he got the money and asks how he will spin that. Philip says he will tell the truth that he’s a hell of a poker player and roulette, asking how he could lose with Gabi by his side.

Alex exits the Brady Pub with Kelsey as Theo comes jogging by. Theo tells Alex that he heard about Joy and he’s so sorry. Alex questions how Theo knows about that.

Xander and Brady sit together in the Brady Pub, talking about EJ being back from Italy. Xander declares that all hell is about to break loose for EJ.

Sarah checks on Joy at the hospital and says there’s no changes in her reflexes yet. Sarah wants to schedule her for another nerve test to measure the electrical activity, but Joy refuses, saying she wants no more tests.

Philip goes to the Kiriakis Mansion to find the living room completely empty. Philip calls out to Xander and Maggie but no one is home.

Sarah tells Joy that the test is really important. Joy wants to try physical therapy first as she’s so tired of being poked and prodded with the same results. Sarah says they have to rely on testing to pinpoint where the blockage is. Joy cries that it all just scares her so much. Sarah responds that she can relate, which Joy questions. Sarah explains that when she was a new mom like her, she was hit by a car and paralyzed from the waist down. Joy asks how long it took her to recover. Sarah says it was a few months and that the healing process is different for every patient, so it might not be that long for her. Sarah encourages her to stay positive and talks about the hardest part of the healing process was not being there for her daughter how she felt she needed to be. Joy asks how she got through it. Sarah says she had a really great support system and wants Joy to know she can count on her for whatever she needs. Sarah knows Joy’s family is not in Salem right now, but assures that she’s not alone. Joy thanks her as she doesn’t know how she would get through any of this without her or Alex.

Theo informs Alex that he heard about Joy from Stephanie as he ran in to her last night and she was pretty upset. Alex responds that they all are. Alex tells Theo that he and his wife are in a tough spot right now, but they love each other a lot and are committed to getting through this. Theo says he hopes they do as he then resumes going on his run.

Xander asks Brady if they think EJ has heard about the FDA complaint that Sarah filed against DiMera. Brady feels they would know if he had and talks about EJ being dangerous when he feels cornered. Brady thinks EJ is going to erupt while Xander says they are going to be ready for the fallout and the fight, so EJ finally gets what he deserves.

Justin arrives at the Kiriakis Mansion and finds Philip, saying he thought everyone was gone as he was just doing a final walkthrough and closing up the place. Philip questions what he means. Justin then informs Philip that all of the paperwork has been signed and the house has been sold, shocking Philip.

Sarah encourages Joy to do the nerve test but Joy refuses. Alex comes in with Kelsey and asks what it can help with her treatment. Alex thinks Joy should do the test if it’s what Sarah suggests. Joy complains that she just needs a break as it’s just too much and overwhelming. Alex says they are just trying to figure out what’s wrong with her so they can help her. Alex urges her to do it for Kelsey because she needs her mom.

Gabi remains in the town square and calls Theo, saying she has a problem and thinks he might be the perfect person to help her solve it. Gabi explains that she’s dealing with a major IP theft issue and she believes someone at DiMera is behind it, so she’s hoping he might be able to use his inside knowledge. Theo then reveals that he can’t help her because he quit which Gabi questions.

Xander still wishes Sarah consulted with him before filing the complaint. Brady reminds him that they’ve been over that they needed to shake EJ up. Xander worries that makes EJ dangerous and that he could take out his anger on Sarah. Brady declares that he and Xander are going to work together to make sure Sarah is safe. Xander calls that progressive. Brady admits he’s still surprised they found a way to work together. Xander says the fight to save Victor’s company and legacy has taught him the importance of family. Xander declares that he and Brady are connected now not just because of Victor, but because of Sarah and Victoria.

Philip questions Xander and Maggie just giving up and signing over the house. Justin reminds him that there’s no money to pay off the debts. Philip then reveals that there is now more than enough and declares he has enough cash to pay off EJ and make the debt away. Justin asks if he’s serious and calls that incredible, asking how he pulled that off. Philip doesn’t want to get in to that and complains that he told Xander and Maggie to wait on finalizing the deal. Justin says they didn’t mention it to him so maybe it was too late or they didn’t get the message. Philip then checks his phone and sees the text that he sent Xander and Maggie not to sell the house was not delivered.

Sarah thanks Alex for helping convince Joy to take the test. Alex says anything to help with Joy’s recovery. Sarah says the goal now is to get her out of here and in to physical therapy. Alex asks then what since she can’t go back to her room above the Pub in a wheelchair. Sarah admits Joy will need a lot of help figuring out how to handle things. Alex agrees to do whatever he can to make it easier on her. Sarah states that Joy is very lucky to have Alex. Alex says she’s lucky to have Sarah and everybody at the hospital too. Alex acknowledges that Joy is still very upset and frustrated, especially being separated from Kelsey. Sarah calls that the toughest part and encourages being positive, understanding, and patient.

Joy grabs her phone to research the Nerve Connection Study.

Philip laughs off his text not going through and says he should’ve called but the connection was lousy and he thought they had more time. Philip asks if they can back out of the sale but Justin says it’s officially sold. Philip offers to buy it back for a higher price. Justin points out that Dominic Marino is worth billions and was very determined to buy the property. Philip asks if they just walk out, lock the doors, and it’s gone. Justin says he’s afraid so. Philip says he can still Victor’s eyes, disappointed as hell that they let him down because he loved this place. Justin says it’s hard for all of them, but they have each other and that’s all that matters. Justin reminds Philip that the house may be gone, but it’s not too late to save Titan and he’d say that’s a damn big accomplishment. Philip supposes that counts for something.

Brady asks Xander if the house is really gone. Xander confirms that he and Maggie signed the papers late last night as she couldn’t bear to drag it out much longer. Brady asks if there’s any more details on the connection between Stefano and Dominic. Xander says as far as he can tell, Dominic seems like a pretty upstanding guy. Brady remarks that best of all, he’s not EJ which Xander agrees is his most appealing attribute. Xander gets a text that Philip wants to meet at the house. Brady thought it was gone. Xander says Justin was closing it up, so he supposes Philip just wants to give it a proper farewell. Brady tells Xander that he’s sorry as Xander exits the Pub.

Gabi tells Theo on the phone that she’s so sorry that it happened but thinks she called at the perfect time, since Theo needs a job and she’s looking to add someone with his skillset to her team. Gabi adds that she just got an unexpected influx of cash and offers him a generous signing bonus.

Justin goes to the hospital and runs in to Alex and Kelsey. Justin tells Alex that he just finished up closing the Kiriakis Mansion which is terribly sad, but the good news is that Philip claims he has the money to save Titan. Alex questions how the hell he’d get money like that. Justin says he doesn’t know or want to know, but it’s a godsend. Alex asks if that means they can save the house. Justin says they already committed to the sale, but at least they kept it from EJ, and apparently Titan can be saved. Alex declares that at least one thing in his life is turning out right.

Sarah goes home to Brady. Brady mentions bringing food from the Pub but Sarah says she’s very tired and wants to go to bed. Brady offers her company in bed which Sarah accepts as they kiss.

Philip sits on the floor, drinking from the bottle of champagne he brought. Xander arrives and questions what he’s doing. Philip responds that he’s celebrating as he got the money. Xander questions what he’s talking about. Philip reveals that he raised enough money to save Titan and the house, only it was too late for the house since he didn’t get his text. Xander questions how much he’s had to drink. Xander brings up Maggie telling him that he had some wild longshot plan to save the house, but siad she talked him out of it. Philip clarifies that she thought she did, but she didn’t because he was bound and determined to save the day, the company, and the house and surprise them. Xander thinks Philip is just drunk and concocting a story to make himself feel better. Philip says he’s just a bit buzzed but repeats that he got the money and shows him his phone with his bank account. Philip adds that the casino gave him a portion of the winnings and it will take a couple days for the rest to come through, but they will have the money to pay off the loan. Xander questions how Philip got the money. Philip admits it was a little bit of poker, a little bit of roulette, and a lot of luck.

Justin asks Alex how Joy is holding up. Alex responds that she’s not great and really scared. Justin asks if the doctors have given any kind of timeline for her recovery. Alex explains that Sarah wants to run more tests and is hopeful that Joy can be released soon to start physical therapy. Justin asks how Alex is doing. Alex says he feels terrible for Joy as it’s been one thing after another since she got back to Salem. Justin asks how Stephanie is handling this. Alex says she took it pretty hard. Alex worries that Stephanie is slipping away from him and there’s nothing he can do about it, because he has to be there for his daughter. Justin says at least they made progress on the custody issue. Alex points out that Stephanie has to stay away from Kelsey for an entire year while he has to be the primary caregiver until Joy can do it on her own. Alex questions how they handle that. Justin encourages that the year will go by fast and advises them to be careful so they don’t give Joy any reason to refuse Stephanie visitation when the year is over.

Brady and Sarah start to head to the bedroom but Sarah gets a call from Kayla. Sarah answers and says she can’t be serious.

Xander questions Philip gambling millions on one spin of the wheel. Philip responds that one spin is all it takes and assures it was his gambling swan song. Xander questions this being real. Philip confirms he won it fair and square, adding that he let it ride on 18, Victor’s birthday, so he came through for them. Xander can’t believe he won the money, they can pay off the loan, and keep Titan. Xander calls it incredible and says they did it as he picks up Philip in a celebratory hug. Xander cannot wait to tell Sarah and Maggie, but says they should probably keep it to family for the time being. Philip agrees to keep it from EJ until they can drop the bomb on him person. Xander declares they will blindside him like he did to them.

Gabi tells Theo that he took the CEO job at DiMera to make it a better, more honorable company but couldn’t clean it up from the inside, so maybe this is the way to do it by coming to work for Gabi Chic, so he gets paid to expose the shady side of DiMera and they can face the consequences of their actions. Gabi asks Theo to at least think about it which he agrees to do, so Gabi says she’ll follow up soon and hangs up.

Sarah thanks Kayla for letting her know and hangs up. Sarah then informs Brady that Destiny’s parents are filing a wrongful death suit against the hospital and her.

Justin asks Alex if Joy has spoken to her parents. Alex explains that she didn’t want to because she thinks if they came rushing to town, it might make things harder. Justin gets why she might think that. Alex agrees they wouldn’t be the most calming presence. Justin assures that he and Bonnie are there for whatever they need. Alex asks how his life got so complicated. Justin says that’s kind of what life is. Alex says he’s just sick of feeling guilty, like he’s trying his best to be a good father but failing to be a good husband and when he tries to be a good husband, he fails as a father. Justin encourages that he’s not failing at anything as he’s doing the best he can. Justin advises Alex to give himself some grace. Alex responds that he’s trying, but he hates what this is doing to Stephanie and to them, but Joy is going through Hell right now, so he has to be there for her and doesn’t have a choice.

Joy calls her father Craig Wesley. Joy says everything is great and Kelsey is good, but asks if he can send her some muscle relaxers that he sent her a long time ago. Joy says they were really helpful and claims she just thinks she pulled something in her back while putting Kelsey’s stroller in the car. Joy thanks him and says that would be very helpful as she hangs up.

Xander tells Philip that it’s strange seeing the Kiriakis Mansion stripped down. Philip comments on all the memories there. Xander says many were painful while Philip notes there were a lot of good ones too. Xander acknowledges that it’s where he finally started to feel like part of the family. Philip tells him that they will always be family, no matter where they end up as they hug. Xander guesses this is it. Philip says he can’t say goodbye. Xander admits he can’t either, so maybe they’ll just say thank you. Philip shuts out the lights as Philip and Xander then walk out of the Kiriakis Mansion together one last time.

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Days Update Friday, September 18, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Roman brings Marlena coffee at the Brady Pub but questions her needing more caffeine. Marlena explains that she’s anxious about Belle and Chad returning from Italy today. Roman thought she’d be relieved. Marlena responds that she is, but notes that Belle wouldn’t tell her what they found there as she wanted to do so in person, which has her heart beating out of her chest.

Belle and Chad walk through the town square back in Salem. Belle talks about being jet lagged while Chad mentions being excited to see his kids when they get out of school. Belle says she’s excited to see Marlena, but not to tell her what they found or rather what they didn’t find. They agree that they came home with more questions than answers as Cat then approaches.

Mason meets Marlena at the Brady Pub as he wanted to talk about something that happened during his last shift on the mental health hotline. Mason says he had a tough case and he can’t seem to shake it.

Rita runs in to the living room of the DiMera Mansion as she sees smoke but she’s surprised to find Sydney vaping inside. Rita says this is a surprise as EJ didn’t tell her Sydney was coming to visit. Sydney explains it was last minute as she had some time off work. Sydney adds that her vaping is not a sign of her morals going down despite what EJ might think. Rita responds that EJ only worries about her because he sees so much of himself in her. Sydney asks if EJ said he worries about her. Rita responds that EJ is also very proud of her. Sydney says except when she drives him crazy. Rita welcomes Sydney home. Sydney thanks her and jokes that her room here is bigger than her entire apartment in Italy. Rita tells Sydney that EJ only worries because he cares about her, so she asks her to take it easy on him. Sydney asks where the fun is in that and adds that she’s on holiday, so she can partake in some vices. Sydney offers Rita her vape, but Rita says her vice is coffee. EJ then walks in and questions what that smell is. Sydney calls it the scent of ambition and ego as she greets him. EJ questions her making it a hookah bar while Sydney says he told her to make herself at home. EJ assures that this is her home. Sydney decides she’s going to go see Roman at the Brady Pub. EJ is sure he’d love to see her, but mentions that the Bradys have a strict no smoking policy. Sydney says she’ll just leave her vape there then and jokes that Rita might want a hit. Sydney tells EJ that she loves him as she then exits the mansion. EJ turns to Rita and questions if she got the answers to what he asked for.

Mason tells Marlena that he had a caller on the mental health line who reminded him of his buddy Joaquin that saved his life in Afghanistan. Mason says when he needed help, he didn’t know what to do and it wasn’t enough, so when the caller said he wanted to end it all, it was like he was hearing Joaquin’s voice. Mason says he let the caller know he was really hearing him and booked an appointment with a therapist. Marlena tells him that he did exactly the right thing. Marlena talks about feeling as much concern for the volunteers as she does the callers. Marlena declares that trauma changes them but they can’t let it define them, so they must do the best they can and move forward. Mason responds that it’s not as easy as it sounds. Marlena tells him that they cannot control what other people do, only how they react to it.

Belle decides to let Chad and Cat talk so she steps away. Chad thanks Cat for meeting him. Cat asks about his trip to Italy. Chad says it was lovely and fine, then comments that Cat must know Italy well from her time in the hospital there. Cat says she didn’t really see much outside of the hospital. Chad asks her to remind him why she was in the hospital, then stops and says he knows why because EJ told him that she was in the ISA. Chad asks if he’s got that right. Cat doesn’t know what to say as that was a private conversation. Chad states that EJ felt the need to share it with him and he also called Paul to have him do some research on her. Cat questions why he would do that. Chad responds that he wanted to get to the truth, which is hard to come by with her. Chad reveals that Paul did confirm she was in fact an ISA agent. Chad asks if she has no comment or isn’t going to deny it. Cat admits it’s the truth, but insists that she left the agency years ago after her accident. Chad assumes she still had contacts in the agency which she confirms. Chad tells Cat that she’s going to have to really clear something up for him.

Arianna enters the Brady Pub and greets Mason. Sydney then enters the Pub and surprises Roman, saying he’s just the man she wanted to see as they hug. Roman tells her that she just missed Marlena. Arianna comes over and can’t believe Sydney is there as they hug. Sydney informs Ari that she just saw her mom last night.

EJ asks Rita if the sale of the Kiriakis Mansion went through. Rita responds that she’s sorry to say that it did. EJ complains that he trusted her to deal with it while he was overseas. Rita argues that she did her best to stop it, but EJ is not so sure about that.

Belle goes home to Marlena, who says she’s so glad she is home. Belle says she definitely wants to go back as Italy was just magical. Belle calls the most magical part being to be in the same places that Marlena and John were. Marlena mentions planning on going back for an anniversary. Belle says she felt such a connection to both of them, like they were experiencing it together as a family. Belle adds that it was amazing learning about Chad’s family history, so she’s really glad they went. Marlena asks if they found any answers to Stefano’s mystery. Belle talks about it being a slow start and then Paul helped them lead to a building where they found the photo of Stefano holding a child in 1992. Belle shows it to Marlena and asks if that means something to her.

Arianna says that Gabi was in Europe taking care of some Gabi Chic distribution deals and questions the chances that she’d randomly run in to Sydney. Sydney calls it a small world and claims they mostly just talked about Ari. Sydney talks about being happy to visit Salem as she’s missed it. Sydney jokes about how the DiMera Mansion is going to spoil her from her humble life in Italy. Holly comes over, so Ari introduces her to Sydney. Holly sees Mason and asks Ari if they can just go. Ari points out that they haven’t even eaten yet. Holly says they can get something at the book store while they study. Mason then stands up and says they can have his table as he exits the Pub, leaving Holly confused.

Cat tells Chad that she doesn’t know what this is about but asks what he wants her to clear up. Chad says that Cat told him that Clyde Weston forced her to impersonate Abigail and she had no other choice but to do what he said, which Cat confirms. Chad questions Cat telling him that there wasn’t anyone in the ISA that she could’ve gone to for help and spared him from reliving the agony of losing his wife again. Chad argues that Cat absolutely had a choice.

EJ reminds Rita that he instructed her to find out everything she could about Dominic Moreno and how important that was to him, but she couldn’t secure any information that wasn’t publicly available. Rita says that was the truth. EJ questions it is, arguing that they both know Rita has a way of finding things that cannot be found. EJ asks how she could not uncover what he found in Italy. Rita asks what he found. EJ reveals that the clues that Belle and Chad were following led directly to Dominic’s doorstep where they found an identical chess set to the one Stefano left John and Marlena. EJ adds that they found a bunch of Stefano’s favorite things and then reveals the photo of Stefano holding a child, questioning who that is.

Marlena asks who the boy is that Stefano is holding. Belle responds that they think it’s Dominic Moreno. Marlena says that doesn’t mean anything to her and questions who he is. Belle says it was his house but he wasn’t there. Belle says whoever was sending the clues knew they were in Italy and definitely wanted them to find it. Marlena guesses he definitely knew Stefano. Belle says it was more than that, telling Marlena about the identical chess set and having Stefano’s favorite things which she calls really eerie, declaring to be almost like Stefano was in the room.

Holly complains that she can’t believe Mason while Arianna says he just gave them his table and seemed totally chill. Holly questions Ari defending him after she told her how rude he was to her. Holly calls him a total jerk and says they keep running in to him for some reason. Ari points out that they go to the same school and hang out in the same places, so she’s going to run in to him. Holly pulls out her phone and shows Ari the text that she got while she and Tate were at the beach and she thinks it was a threat. Ari feels it doesn’t sound like much of a threat while Holly feels they are clearly trying to mess with her. Holly then reveals that she thinks the text came from Mason. Roman sits with Sydney and asks what brings her to Salem. Sydney explains that EJ came to spend time with her so she came back with him. Roman guesses he’s supposed to thank EJ for her visit. Sydney jokes that she won’t hold him to that. Roman asks about Sami and Dante. Sydney says Sami doesn’t confide in her much but they are still engaged. Sydney adds that she likes working for Dante. Roman says he’s lucky to have her. Sydney asks how Roman is and how Salem is since she’s missed him. Roman says things are good. Sydney mentions being sorry to hear that Roman and Kate were separated. Roman says they are trying to work things out and asks if she’s seen Marlena yet. Sydney plans to surprise her too. Roman notes that Marlena has been through some rough times lately, so he’s kind of worried about her. Sydney admits she’s been worried too. Sydney brings up how John used to e-mail her all the time to check in and says she really misses that. Sydney adds that she’s always grateful to hear from Roman. Roman encourages her to get in touch with Marlena soon because she needs people who love her around her now more than ever.

Marlena asks if there weren’t any other clues connecting to Dominic to Stefano. Belle says there was nothing concrete, but they wondered if Dominic was the missing pawn. Marlena talks about her, John, and Roman being pawns so it’s possible. Marlena asks what EJ thinks. Belle says he doesn’t know as it doesn’t seem like Dominic has any known connection to the DiMeras, but he does have a connection to Salem as he’s the one buying the Kiriakis Estate. Marlena calls that so strange and asks what she makes of it. Belle says there’s no way to know unless they track down Dominic Marino.

EJ asks Rita who the child in the photo is with Stefano. Rita guesses it’s Dominic Marino. EJ questions what his connection is to Stefano. Rita responds that she has no idea, which EJ doubts. EJ argues that Rita was Stefano’s right hand, always in the room, so she knows all the secrets. Rita states that she knew what Stefano wanted her to know and nothing more. EJ asks if Dr. Rolf could know something and if Rita found out if he’s the one feeding Belle and Chad clues. Rita says she hasn’t been able to reach him. EJ questions if Rita thinks Dr. Rolf has been carrying out Stefano’s orders. Rita says it would be a good reason for him to avoid them.

Chad tells Cat that he was this close to getting past what Cat did to his family and forgiving her, but now he finds out that she was an ISA agent the entire time. Cat argues that he has to understand her mission was to bring Clyde down, which cost her literally everything. Cat says after she recovered from her accident, she cut all ties with the ISA, so when Clyde came threatening her family, she was absolutely terrified and he told her that he would kill her mother if she reached out to any of her contacts. Cat assumes the ISA had a leak or Clyde had a mole so she couldn’t risk her mother’s life. Cat talks about knowing what Clyde was capable of and tearfully argues that Chad has to understand that, but Chad says he doesn’t.

Belle thanks Marlena for lending her John’s coin since it made her feel safer like she hoped and served as a reminder of John. Belle talks about being in awe of the love John and Marlena shared. Belle gives Marlena the coin back and says now it’s back where it belongs.

EJ admits that it’s unnerving that Dr. Rolf has failed to get back to him, so he’s beginning to lose faith in some of the people he thought he could trust the most. Rita assumes that he’s talking about Cat. EJ mentions Belle having Paul confirm that Cat left the ISA after her accident, while Chad strongly believes the ISA never would’ve sanctioned Cat impersonating Abigail. Rita asks what EJ believes. EJ responds that he doesn’t know what or whom to believe anymore.

Chad tells Cat that he doesn’t understand at all because she had everything she needed to handle Clyde but instead of using her training or resources, she chose to torture him and his family. Chad argues that what really twists the knife is that he thought Cat was done lying to him and it was all over with, but she lied to him the entire time they were together.

Holly asks Arianna how the text could not be from Mason. Ari questions how he would even have her number. Holly points out they have a class group chat, so Ari points out that she would have his number too then. Holly mentions having no idea why Mason hates her for no reason. Ari responds that she’s not sure it’s for no reason. Arianna reveals that she asked Mason yesterday what his problem was with Holly and he told her that Holly is responsible for the death of someone he knew. Holly is shocked and asks how that’s even possible, arguing that she doesn’t even know him. Ari says she’s just telling her what he told her. Holly says now she’s really freaked out. Ari says she didn’t get a chance to ask further questions as Mason ran after telling her. Holly then asks if she thinks he was talking about Sophia.

Mason sits alone in the town square with his dog tags from the military. Sydney approaches and asks if he can show her where Sweet Bits Bakery is, so he points her in the direction of it. Sydney says she’s heard it’s amazing and asks if he’s tried it. Mason responds that he doesn’t really go to bakeries as he gets up and walks away, leaving Sydney confused. Cat apologizes to Chad for coming clean to EJ and not him, arguing that her time in the ISA was just a job, not who she was. Chad questions why she came clean to EJ. Cat says she didn’t want any secrets between them, so Chad guesses she was okay with secrets between them. Chad tells Cat that she’s out of her mind and delusional if she doesn’t think EJ is hiding anything from her. Chad can’t believe that he once saw a future with Cat and remarks that his son Thomas pegged from the start that Cat is not a good person. Chad guesses that makes sense sinec Cat’s with EJ now and says they deserve each other as he storms off.

Rita tells EJ that she’s well aware that many people in his orbit can be fickle and how distressing that can be, but he has her unflinching support which he will need now more than ever before. EJ questions why that is. Rita reports that a complaint has been filed with the FDA against Coriseal and an investigation has been opened. EJ questions why the hell she didn’t say so sooner. Rita says they had a lot of ground to cover and that George and Johnny had been trying to reach him about it. EJ storms out in frustration. Rita then looks up to the portrait of Stefano and says it’s playing out as he planned, so she trusts that she’s done him proud.

Marlena sits at home with the photo of Stefano holding the child and tells Belle that she just realized Marino means “of the sea” and so does DiMera.

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Days Short Recap Friday, September 25, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Sarah and Kayla went over Destiny’s file to get ready for the lawsuit. Kayla assured her that she was on her side. She told Rita that Sarah wasn’t the only one who knew what EJ did. Sarah was nervous for a bit until Kayla said that she wasn’t afraid to take on the DiMeras. They continued to look through the files, and they looked normal. Sarah noticed an asterix next to one of the test results. The test was edited the day after Destiny died. Sarah never touched the results. She realized that someone was framing her. Sarah didn’t know how to fight it. Chad talked to Kate about his trip. Kate didn’t recognize of Stefano and the boy in the pictures. She just knew that Dominic was the one who bought the Kiriakis mansion. Kate thought it was one more way for Stefano to win against the Kiriakis family.

Brady arrived at the office when Steve got off the phone with Bo. Steve told him that Bo and Hope made it to San Cristobel. They were going to the place where Marlena was kidnapped. Brady and Steve talked about Marlena’s history on the island where Stefano forced her to be a surrogate for Rex and Cassie. They had other problems on their hands. Sarah and Kayla rushed to the pub to meet with Brady and Steve. They told them about what they found in Destiny’s file. Everyone knew that EJ was behind the update in the files. Brady thought they should examine the computer system to find out when the files were changed and from where. Bo called Steve with information. After the call, Steve had to leave. Marlena was dreaming about everything concerning Dominic when Roman showed up at her place. Roman told her that he talked to Sami, and she didn’t know anything about Dominic and Dante working together. Sami said that Dante claimed that he wasn’t really in touch with Dominic. Marlena didn’t feel any better about it. She told him about the dreams she was having. Roman assured her that Stefano couldn’t hurt her anymore. Justin called Sarah and let her know that her troubles were beginning. Melinda was representing Destiny’s parents. They planned on going on TV and accusing her of wrongful death.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, September 24, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Johnny warned Sydney that it wouldn’t be a good idea to stay in Salem. He was happy until he took the position at the company. Johnny was upset because he lost Theo as his co-CEO. He told her some details about what happened to the company. Sydney advised him to hold the line because he’s the one in charge and not their father. Johnny told her that he was in serious trouble. His life would blow up in his face. Belle and Chad met at the pub. She talked to him about Dominic and Dante’s connection. Belle thought their connection would cause something life-changing to happen. She said that she loved Sami even thought they didn’t always get along. Chad understood what she meant because of his complicated relationship with EJ, the situation with Cat, and how much he missed Abby.

EJ went to his office and saw Cat packing her things up. Cat felt like an afterthought and reminded him that he’s been cold to her since she told him that she was ISA. She told him about Chad confronting her about being in the ISA. Cat knew that EJ didn’t believe that she was out of the ISA. He thought it would be brilliant for the ISA to recruit her. She became offended by his comments. Cat switched things up and accused him of keeping secrets. She listed his issues, but he refused to let her distract him from thinking that it was a coincidence that she came to work for him.

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Days Update Thursday, September 17, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Leo runs in to Lani in the town square and says he heard about her taking down the mugger. Lani says her instincts kicked in when she saw Holly in trouble. Leo tells Lani that he has an opportunity for her.

EJ is packing his bag in Italy when he gets a call from Cat. EJ answers, so Cat says she’s glad she finally caught him. EJ responds that he’s in a bit of a hurry getting ready to catch his flight, so whatever it is can wait, but Cat tells him no, it can’t.

Chad and Belle lay in bed together in Italy. Belle wonders what Stefano would think of them together. Chad thinks he would approve and asks what if the whole scavenger hunt was his way of getting them together. Belle points out that it was originally meant for her parents, but admits she’s glad for whatever got them away to Italy together. Belle tells Chad it was wonderful getting to spend all this time with him. Chad suggests they schedule a lot more of it. Belle agrees as they kiss.

At Small Bar, Stephanie complains to Theo that she really wanted her marriage to work out so badly and she tried over and over again, but asks what the point is if fate keeps pushing her and Alex apart. Theo responds that somehow, he’s always the one here to catch her. Theo then apologizes for saying that while Stephanie says it’s true. Stephanie says since she can’t be within ten feet of her husband when he’s with his daughter, she might as well lean on her friends since Alex certainly is leaning on his. Theo responds that he’s glad he could be there for her. Theo remarks that he knows what it’s like to want to hold someone and kiss them, but have to stay away. Stephanie points out that Theo is not one to break the rules. Theo says only on rare occasions as he and Stephanie get close.

Belle and Chad get up to start packing their bags. Chad thinks they’ve uncovered everything they are going to find in Italy. Belle declares that the next move is to find the elusive Mr. Marino.

Leo sits with Lani and informs her that he’s launching a podcast for the Spectator and he wants her to be his very first guest. Leo talks about looking for a first topic and decided on Unsung Heroes of Salem. Leo feels she fits that bill and she deserves to be recognized for her bravery in stopping the mugger. Lani responds that she doesn’t want to be recognized and prefers to stay out of the spotlight. Leo gets that the spotlight is not for everyone, but says there is no spotlight with podcasts. Lani wishes him the best but says the answer is no.

Stephanie and Theo are interrupted by Paulina arriving at Small Bar. Paulina says she didn’t expect to run in to the two of them together.

EJ asks Cat what is so urgent. Cat informs him that Johnny and George have been trying to reach him. EJ says he’s aware but he’s had his hands full here, so he will talk to them when he gets back. EJ tells Cat that if Johnny contacts her again, she is to remind him that he has full faith in him. There’s a knock at the door so EJ tells Cat he has to go and hangs up. EJ then answers the door and is surprised by his daughter Sydney as they embrace.

Chad looks over at the photo of Stefano holding a child from 1992 and talks to Belle about how young Stefano looks there. Chad says it stirs up a lot as he did love Stefano in spite of everything. Belle says it looks that little boy did too. Chad questions Stefano never mentioning Dominic if they were so close. Chad adds that Stefano told him they had extended family in Italy so maybe Dominic is his long lost cousin. Belle wonders if Dominic could be the missing pawn while Chad questions what that would even mean since Stefano treated most of them like his pawns. Belle thinks the bigger question is why Stefano would want her parents to know about Dominic’s existence. Chad questions why Dominic would buy property in Salem. Belle doesn’t know what to tell Marlena since she hated that they did any of this and it won’t reassure her that they are coming back with more questions than they started with.

Leo pleads with Lani, feeling he needs a big story to launch his podcast. Lani isn’t sure her stopping the mugger even qualifies as a big story as she was just in the right place at the right time. Leo continues praising her for what happened. Lani stops him and says she’s not flattered or interested. Lani then says goodnight and walks away.

Theo tells Paulina it’s such a small world and it’s good to see her. Theo then claims he has to go and tells Stephanie that he’s sorry he couldn’t stay and chat. Theo wishes her luck with Joy as he quickly exits. Paulina asks Stephanie what Joy is up to now. Stephanie informs Paulina that Joy is paralyzed.

EJ thought Sydney was going to be out of town for much longer. Sydney says she was going to be but Dante knew how much it would mean for her to see EJ, so he generously let her come home early while he continues the business trip without her. EJ admits that’s certainly nice of him, though he wonders if Dante’s extended business trips are a way to procrastinate getting Sami down the aisle. Sydney assures that Sami is Dante’s first priority and the long engagement was a mutual decision as Sami has a long history of rushing down the aisle and Dante wants to make sure she has no regrets. EJ questions why she would have regrets. Sydney thinks he knows why and says that Sami used to call EJ the love of her life as she loved him for a long time. EJ says that’s loved as in the past tense. Sydney suggests maybe the present tense too. EJ questions why she would say that and argues that she can’t think Sami still has feelings for him. Sydney says she doesn’t know what goes on in Sami’s head but admits she doesn’t think that Sami will ever be fully over him. Sydney adds that she does think Dante is good for Sami and they seem really happy together. EJ responds that he’s happy for them. Sydney hopes that EJ will find that kind of happiness soon too.

Cat texts EJ to call her back when he’s free because they need to talk.

Paulina questions Stephanie saying Joy is paralyzed and says that sounds awful. Stephanie admits she’s not Joy’s biggest fan since she and Alex share a child that she’s not allowed to be near, which means Joy gets to spend much more time with Alex than she does. Paulina notes that sounds complicated and says that’s coming from someone whose husband left her for his dead wife. Stephanie invites her to join her since a pity party for one is no fun. Paulina says she’s done with pity parties but she would enjoy her company. Paulina adds that she’s been wanting to pick her brain for some PR advice about Lani.

Theo runs in to Lani in the town square. Theo guesses Johnny made it home to Chanel and the kids. Lani confirms he did and asks if Theo knows what was going on at the office that was such an emergency. Theo thinks DiMera is doing some illegal stuff and he refuses to be apart of it, so when Johnny shows up to work tomorrow, he will see his letter of resignation sitting right on his desk. Cat walks through the town square where Leo stops her. Cat says she has to go but Leo tells her to take a seat as it will only take a second.

Chad thinks they made decent progress on the case and now they have Paul, Steve, and Brady. Belle says she wouldn’t throw Paul in there since he’s busy with his actual job. Belle then brings up that if EJ was right about Cat being an analyst for the ISA in her past life, then maybe she could help them out but Chad says absolutely not. Belle apologizes for suggesting that. Chad admits he was a little harsh but says he wouldn’t feel comfortable asking Cat for help. Belle asks if that’s because he still has feelings for her. Chad assures that’s not the case and asks who even knows if Cat is telling the truth about the ISA since she’s lied to them before. Belle reveals that she asked Paul to look in to it and confirmed that Cat was working for the ISA, but severed all ties after her accident. Chad is sure that will give EJ some peace of mind. Belle asks what about him. Chad repeats that he doesn’t think they should get Cat involved.

Leo tells Cat that he received a text that is relevant to their EJ investigation. Cat says that she is not part of his EJ investigation, so Leo says he won’t tell her about the salacious tidbit he got about EJ. Cat then decides she wants to hear it. Leo informs Cat that a source of his told him that the FDA is looking in to a complaint against DiMera Pharmaceuticals failing to properly dispose of a contaminated drug leading to some sort of biohazard. Cat notes that sounds serious. Leo asks if she means ISA serious.

EJ tells Sydney that he is happy for Sami and talks about being so proud of Sydney getting her MBA and becoming a business lawyer right out of graduation. Sydney tells EJ that it’s so good to see him as she’s missed hanging out with him. EJ agrees it’s been far too long. Sydney asks how his trip is going and if he found what he was looking for. EJ says not exactly. Sydney asks if there’s anything she can do to help. EJ responds that there actually is and asks if she happens to know a man named Dominic Marino.

Paulina tells Stephanie that she’s sure Jada has mentioned the cop shortage in Salem. Paulina talks about Lani taking down the mugger and how it brought that light in her eyes. Paulina says it’s killing her that she’s the reason that sense of purpose was taken from Lani in being a cop. Stephanie argues that what happened with Lani’s father wasn’t Paulina’s fault. Paulina complains that it certainly wasn’t Lani’s fault and she doesn’t think Lani should have to pay the consequences for ending his life and saving her life. Stephanie agrees and asks how she can help. Paulina responds that the Governor is coming to the end of his term and he owes her big time since he’s only Governor since she stepped aside. Stephanie asks if she wants to ask him to pardon Lani. Paulina knows it’s stepping in to a political minefield and that’s where Stephanie comes in. Paulina asks if she has any advice on how to proceed.

Lani questions Theo saying that DiMera is doing illegal stuff. Theo responds that he doesn’t know anything specific and mocks the title of co-CEO, feeling Johnny tried to keep him out of it to cover himself and EJ. Lani calls that a huge accusation and asks if he’s sure. Theo declares that he knows for a fact that Johnny’s been lying to him, so he has to walk away. Lani is proud of Theo for taking a stand and doing the right thing. Theo states that he’s not proud of himself. Lani argues that most people in his shoes would’ve looked the other way or got involved in something else shady to keep their CEO title, but he stood up to his cousin and held his morals. Theo says he thought that for a minute, but then he realized he’s no better than Johnny or EJ. Lani argues that whatever he’s beating himself up about, she’s sure it’s not that bad. Theo then reveals that he almost kissed a married woman.

Stephanie tells Paulina that the optics are a concern but if she has a good relationship with the Governor, he might be willing to pardon Lani as a favor to her, but if he perceives it as a threat to his position, he could run straight to the press and tell them that Paulina used her pull for family members. Stephanie admits that the Governor could refuse the pardon and cost Paulina her career.

Cat tells Leo that she’s not in the ISA and she would not dream of investigating EJ after all he’s done for her and her family. Leo says he just thought he’d pass along the intel in case she wanted to work her magic on it. Cat thinks he’s going to want to hear what she’s about to say, so Leo tells her the floor is hers. Cat says she’s told him repeatedly that she’s not in the ISA and he’s soon going to learn most likely that she used to be.

Belle tells Chad that they don’t have to get Cat involved if he’s opposed to it, especially since they already have an ISA agent on the case. Chad appreciates her understanding that. Chad admits he’s kind of sad to be leaving Italy. Belle is sure he’s excited to get back to his kids. Chad says he does miss them. Chad tells Belle that they will make a promise to go back to Italy for a proper vacation. Belle says she would love that as they kiss.

Sydney tells EJ that everyone around here knows of Dominic Marino, but she doesn’t know him personally, and asks if he does. EJ says he just has a few questions about a business deal he’s involved in. Sydney jokes about EJ leveraging his personal connections. Sydney asks how long EJ is staying. EJ responds that he’s afraid his trip to Italy is coming to an end. Sydney can’t believe he’s leaving already. EJ is sorry she took time off work to come see him, but says pressing matters are calling him back home so they are leaving this morning. Sydney questions him saying they as there’s a knock at the door and Chad asks if EJ is about ready. Sydney then excitedly opens the door and has a group hug with Belle and Chad.

Stephanie tells Paulina that she can give her some PR tips for talking to the Governor but thinks she should first talk to Lani to see if she’s on board with this. Paulina thanks Stephanie for giving her a lot to think about. Paulina adds that she’s sorry if she interrupted her and Theo earlier. Stephanie insists that she didn’t, claiming they just ran in to each other as Theo was on his way home.

Lani points out that the key is he didn’t kiss the married woman. Theo responds that it’s only because they got interrupted, but admits that he wanted to. Theo states that she’s miserable in her marriage and deserves better. Lani asks if she’s unsafe in her marriage. Theo responds that it’s nothing like that, but she’s neglected. Lani thinks it’s good that he didn’t.

Leo excitedly talks about knowing Dimitri wasn’t lying and that he recognized Cat’s voice. Cat calls it years ago and says she was only an analyst. Leo doesn’t believe that and jokes about how dangerous she must be as an agent. Leo assures that he’ll keep her secret if no one else knows. Cat reveals that she actually told EJ which shocks Leo, who asks if she has a death wish. Leo asks how EJ took the news. Cat responds that she’s not sure.

Sydney says that Marlena mentioned they were there but she didn’t think they would all be together. Belle clarifies that EJ is just riding home with them. Sydney is sad that they are also leaving. Belle hates that they don’t get to spend more time together and says she would stay, but she’s already re-arranged her case load. Chad adds that he has to get back to his kids and his paper. Chad decides he can tell the pilot to hold off for an hour or two so they can have breakfast, which Sydney says she would love. EJ then points out that Sydney said she took time off work to spend time with him, so he invites her to come back to Salem with them. Sydney is surprised and says she just hadn’t thought about going home. Belle insists that everyone would love to see her and tells her to come back with them. Chad adds that they have the jet. Sydney then decides to go with them and declares “Salem, here I come”

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Days Update Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Kayla brings Kelsey to Steve outside of the Brady Pub. Steve asks if they are babysitting again. Kayla confirms they are so that Alex could have a talk with Stephanie. Steve asks if something happened. Kayla reveals that Joy can’t feel her legs.

Stephanie meets Alex at home and asks what’s going on. Alex informs her that Kelsey is with Kayla because he needed to talk to her as he got some bad news.

Chanel gets up at home where Lani asks if she had a good nap. Chanel confirms that she did but questions what Lani is doing there and where Johnny is.

Theo goes to the DiMera Enterprises office and asks Johnny what the hell is going on, demanding that he be straight with him.

At the Brady Pub, Xander wonders when EJ will be home from Italy. Brady thinks he will be catching the first flight home when hears about their complaint. Brady then gets a call from Belle and asks how it’s going. Brady mentions on the phone that the name Dominic Marino vaguely rings a bell. Xander tells Sarah that Dominic Marino is the investor that’s buying the Kiriakis Estate. Brady hangs up as Xander asks what Belle had to say. Brady explains that she and Chad followed some clues that Stefano left to John and Marlena to a compound in Rome owned by a guy named Dominic Marino, who is buying the Kiriakis Estate. Xander asks if they met him. Brady says that they went to his home but he wasn’t there. Sarah questions how this ties to Stefano since he couldn’t have known Dominic would buy the estate or that it would even be for sale. Brady suggests maybe Stefano is the reason that Dominic put in a bid in the first place. Xander and Sarah add that there’s clearly a connection between Dominic and Stefano and their family. Brady says now they just have to figure out what it is.

Johnny questions how Theo even knew he was there. Theo reveals he heard him on the phone with Lani, asking her to watch the kids so he could get to the office. Johnny tries to tell Theo that he was taking care of some documents that needed to be sent but Theo argues that he knows he’s here for DiMera Pharmaceuticals because he just saw George walk out of the office. Theo accuses Johnny of having a meeting behind his back and asks when the hell he’s going to stop lying to him.

Chanel can’t believe Johnny called Lani over instead of just waking her up. Chanel knows she needs her rest but says the side effects of the chemo are easing up. Chanel talks about being able to eat a big breakfast, then says so much for the side effects easing up as talking about food made her feel queasy just now. Lani says she might have something that can help and she’ll be right back.

Steve questions if Kayla is saying Joy is paralyzed. Kayla confirms that’s what she is saying but they are hoping it’s temporary since permanent results from this kind of procedure are rare, but notes that it could be weeks or months before Joy can move her legs. Steve says it’s going to be tough on her. Kayla adds that it will be on Alex and Stephanie too as she doesn’t know how much more they can take.

Stephanie asks Alex what the bad news is. Alex says it’s about Joy. Stephanie notes that Kayla said the surgery went well. Alex says that’s what everyone believed but she ran in to some unexpected complications in her recovery. Stephanie asks what kind of complications. Alex responds that Joy can’t feel her legs and they hope it’s temporary. Stephanie is shocked and questions if Joy is paralyzed and if the prognosis is that she’s never going to walk again. Alex repeats that it’s probably temporary, but her recovery is going to take a little bit longer than they thought. Stephanie asks how much longer. Alex says it’s hard to say, but he knows they were hoping things would be better after Joy’s surgery and now here they are, so he’s sorry. Alex offers to cook Stephanie dinner but Stephanie argues that they can’t pretend everything is fine. Stephanie doesn’t think they ever can be fine again and declares that Alex has a lot of responsibilities now while she’s at the bottom of that list, calling herself an afterthought. Alex argues that she’s his wife but Stephanie remarks that it doesn’t really matter right now. Stephanie says goodbye to Alex and walks out of the apartment.

Lani brings Chanel “special” brownies. Chanel brings up Paulina telling her what Lani did to save Holly. Lani admits it made her miss being a cop. Chanel is sorry she had to give that part of her life up. Lani says she has no regrets. Chanel talks about not feeling the effects of the brownies yet and decides to go take a walk while Lani agrees to stay and watch the kids until Johnny gets home. Chanel thanks Lani and exits.

Johnny shuts the office door and declares that Theo was going to find out eventually, so he might as well tell him now. Johnny then informs Theo that at a doctor at the hospital has filed a complaint to the FDA about DiMera Pharmaceuticals. Theo questions what doctor and what complaint. Johnny responds that it was anonymous but the complaint alleges that DiMera manufactured a contaminated batch of Coriseal that could have been fatal. Theo asks if he’s saying people died because of them.

Kayla tells Steve that on top of all that, Gwen’s bid to buy the hospital was rejected by the board and they don’t have any other buyers or bidders, so they are now officially in receivership by the state. Steve says he’s so sorry. Kayla says thinking about what Joy, Alex, and Stephanie are going through puts in to perspective what’s really important.

Xander tells Brady and Sarah that he and Maggie were so sure that whoever was buying the estate had no connection to the DiMeras and that Dominic Marino wasn’t acting on behalf of EJ. Brady and Sarah say they don’t know that he is for sure. Brady adds that according to Belle, there is very little information on Dominic and they have Paul investigating. Brady sees Steve outside through the window and decides he’s going to loop him in on this, so maybe with his help, they can figure out who this guy is while Xander wonders what the hell Dominic wants. Sarah tells Xander that thank God he and Maggie didn’t sign the contract that Dominic’s broker sent over. Xander points out they’ll have to by tomorrow. Kayla comes in with Kelsey and greets them. Sarah asks about Joy but Kayla says there’s no change. Stephanie then arrives, so Kayla tells her that she’d like to talk to her. Stephanie points out that she has Kelsey so she can’t. Sarah says they can watch Kelsey, so Kayla and Stephanie step outside to talk.

Theo realizes this is why Johnny didn’t want him involved in DiMera Pharmaceuticals and questions what they have done. Johnny says they have not done anything and that everything the complaint alleges happened years before either of them were CEO. Theo argues that Johnny is still covering it up because his father was in charge. Johnny calls it an unproven allegation and says that he and George only met to go over all the records from that time and insists that nothing from the allegation is going to stand. Theo disagrees and argues that Johnny wouldn’t have put all this energy in to hiding it from him if there wasn’t something to hide. Theo says Johnny can’t tell him he’s wrong and says “damn you, Johnny.”

Chanel goes on her walk through the town square and comes across Alex. Chanel asks why he looks sad. Alex responds that maybe because it seems like no matter what he does or doesn’t do, he can’t seem to get anything right. Steve and Brady sit together in the town square. Steve calls this an interesting twist as Marlena was so worried about who was sending Belle those clues and now they are closer to an answer. Brady questions if they are when all they have is a name. Brady asks if Dominic Marino means anything to him. Steve responds that he’s been dealing with Stefano and his associates for decades but has never heard that name. Brady says he’s only heard the name in passing in business, so Steve wonders why now all roads are leading to him.

Theo tells Johnny that they are going to cooperate with the FDA’s investigation fully. Johnny insists they will not find anything. Theo hopes not. Johnny argues that he’s tried to do what is best for everyone and asks if Theo understands that. Theo responds that he does. Johnny says he has to get back to Chanel and the kids, so they will regroup in the morning. Theo tells him to have a good night. Johnny says he’s glad they had this conversation as he then exits the office. Theo then sits down at the desk to begin writing his Letter of Resignation.

Chanel tells Alex that Joy isn’t her favorite person but she feels terrible that she’s going through this. Alex questions how his life got so damn complicated. Alex says he and Joy worked together on the soap opera and liked each other but it was never serious and now they have a kid. Chanel asks how Stephanie took the news about Joy. Alex says she took it badly, knowing they can’t live together for weeks or months. Alex admits he’s worried that now it’s going to break their marriage.

Stephanie complains to Kayla that she’s so angry at Alex for having a baby with Joy and angry at herself for the reckless thing she did to cause Joy to think she’s a danger to the baby and she’s also angry that she’s making it about herself when Joy is in the hospital and may never walk again. Kayla encourages that Stephanie just misses her husband and that doesn’t mean she’s not sympathetic to what Joy is going through. Stephanie questions why Joy is going through it when the surgery was successful and it’s very rare for this complication. Kayla calls it just bad luck while Stephanie questions if she’s sure Joy is really paralyzed.

Xander and Sarah watch over Kelsey. Sarah says she feels for Joy since she knows what it’s like and remembers very well how difficult it was to try and take care of Victoria after her accident and being so limited. Sarah adds that she’s very grateful that Xander was there to take care of them as he was so caring and strong which gave her strength. Sarah admits she doesn’t know what she would’ve done without him.

Steve finishes a call with Paul and tells Brady that Dominic Marino has been on the ISA’s radar, so Paul is going to send them everything he’s found. Brady feels Dominic has to have connections to Salem. Steve says that’s what they are going to figure out, but for now, Dominic Marino is as close to a ghost as one can be since he has no criminal record, no social media, and apparently he hardly ever leaves his private island unless it’s to go to his compound in Rome. Brady questions how he could do that with all of his businesses. Steve guesses he has lieutenants as faces of all those companies which is why they can’t get a picture of him. Brady questions him having no driver’s license or passport. Steve points out that he’s not a US citizen, so Paul is calling in favors to try and get a look at that, but there’s no guarantee he can. Brady feels it sounds like a dead end. Steve says not necessarily since most of Dominic’s big purchase were through a shell company, but not on the Kiriakis Mansion. Steve thinks Dominic wants them to know his name. Brady agrees that it sounds intentional but only Dominic Marino himself can answer why.

Xander talks about going out of his mind after Sarah’s accident and falling in love with her deeper then. Xander says he has so many decisions he regrets, but what he’s most proud of was loving her and making their child.

Kayla questions Stephanie thinking Joy is faking being paralyzed. Stephanie goes over how soon after Joy came back, she got a flat tire that Alex came to fix and then the tire had a blowout on the road and she had whiplash. Stephanie says they all thought she recovery, but then she needed surgery and it was successful but now she’s paralyzed. Stephanie argues that she has to see why she’d find it suspicious and questions what her scans said. Kayla reminds her that she can’t discuss Joy’s medical condition with her but she can tell her that spinal swelling can’t be detected by any scans, so the absence of spinal reflexes would be impossible for a patient to consistently fake because they are involuntary reflexes. Stephanie guesses that shoots her theory then and apologizes for asking. Stephanie says she has just been spiraling ever since Alex told her that Joy is paralyzed. Stephanie asks how her marriage is going to survive if her and her husband can’t ever be together. Stephanie cries that she misses him so much as Kayla hugs her.

Chanel tells Alex that she’s so sorry he’s going through this but offers to cheer him up with a song. Chanel sings “Itsy-Bitsy Spider” but forgets the rest of the words. They laugh together as Alex says she definitely cheered him up. Chanel then confesses she’s a little high right now which Alex jokes explains everything. Chanel explains that pot brownies were prescribed to her for her chemo, so she guesses that’s why she just burst in to song even though she’s a terrible singer. Alex tells her it was great as they laugh together. Alex hugs Chanel as Stephanie walks in to the town square and sees them, then turns and walks away. Chanel tells Alex that he’s such a gentleman and that she really hopes he and Stephanie can make it work.

Johnny goes home and asks Lani how it’s going, noting it’s quiet and assumes everyone stayed asleep for her. Lani responds that the kids did, but Chanel woke up. Johnny asks where she went. Lani explains that she was feeling a little nauseous, so she thought some fresh air might help. Lani guesses that Johnny was hoping Chanel wouldn’t find out that he left. Lani remarks that she was once a detective, always a detective, so she knows he is keeping something from her sister.

Stephanie goes to Small Bar and finds Theo, commenting that he looks like he can use a friend. Theo says she does too and orders two drinks. Stephanie tells Theo to go first. Theo reveals that he just quit his job. Stephanie is surprised but says she knows he was worried that Johnny was hiding something from him. Theo confirms that he was. Stephanie says she’s so sorry because she knows how important the job was to him and selfishly, she will miss working together. Theo says he knew in his gut for awhile but he didn’t want to admit it to himself.

Lani tells Johnny that Chanel is going through a lot right now and she’s in love with him so she’s kind of blinded by what’s going on, but she’s not. Chanel then comes home and excitedly greets Johnny. Lani decides she should get going and tells Chanel that she loves her as she then exits. Chanel tells Johnny that she missed him and questions why he looks sad like Alex.

Stephanie complains to Theo that she really wanted her marriage to work out so badly and she tried over and over again, but asks what the point is if fate keeps pushing her and Alex apart. Theo responds that somehow, he’s always the one here to catch her.

Alex returns to the Pub and apologizes to Steve and Kayla for keeping them waiting. Alex watches over Kelsey and says she knows she misses her mom and that she loves her very much. Alex encourages that they are all going to be okay.

Chanel asks Johnny why she sees so much sadness in his eyes. Johnny insists that he’s fine. Chanel says she is too, especially after the brownies Lani made her. Johnny is glad she’s feeling better as they kiss. Chanel points out that the kids are asleep. Johnny reminds her that she just had a baby and the doctor said they should wait a few weeks. Chanel responds that she’ll take what she can get as they kiss onto the couch.

Brady returns to Xander and Sarah at the Pub, telling them there is no intel on Dominic Marino. Sarah questions what the plan is and if this changes Xander’s mind about selling the mansion to him. Xander says he’s not sure and he’ll have to talk to Maggie about it, but he’d love to know his connection to the DiMeras before selling to him. Xander adds that if they don’t make a sale before EJ forecloses on the loan, he will get the estate and the company, so the clock is ticking. Xander doesn’t know what the best option is between the devil they know or the one they don’t.

 

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Days Update Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Tate and Holly remain together at the lake. Tate wants this day to never end while Holly remains worried about the random number that texted her, asking if she’s having fun. Tate blows it off as probably spam or a wrong number and assures they are alone out there as it’s just them as he hugs her.

In Monte Carlo, Gabi tells Philip how she was barely breathing while he was playing and it was like watching a Bond movie. Gabi talks about Philip keeping his cool and beating the odds and the house. She mentions the looks on Sydney and Dante’s faces when he won. Philip admits it was a thrill when he laid down the flush but not as thrilled to still not have enough to pay back EJ’s loan. Philip declares that he has a briefcase full of chips, but the company and the house are gone.

Brady, Sarah, and Xander sit together at the Brady Pub. Brady jokes with Sarah about always ordering the same thing. Xander thinks back to overhearing Sarah tell Brady that she loves him. Sarah tells Xander that Maggie told her the house is officially sold. Xander clarifies that the buyer signed, but he and Maggie still have to and they have until the end of tomorrow and they just haven’t been able to bring themselves to do it yet. Sarah understands it’s a very hard goodbye, like a chapter in all of their lives is ending. Brady points out that at least EJ didn’t get the house. Xander agrees that losing it is bad but losing it to EJ would be intolerable. Xander adds that foiling EJ’s plans wasn’t enough and that’s why he wanted them to get together. Brady notes that he said it was about the Coriseal investigation. Xander confirms that is and that he saw something last night that makes him think they should focus on Johnny.

Johnny takes care of baby Olivia at home, saying he hopes not to wake Chanel up as she needs her sleep. Johnny then gets a call from George. Johnny says it’s not a good time and asks what it is. George tells Johnny that he needs to get to the office now. Johnny argues that Chanel is asleep and he can’t just leave his family. George warns him to figure it out because his family’s future depends on it.

Gabi tells Philip that she’s sorry he didn’t win what he needed to, but it’s still more than most people will make in a thousand lifetimes, so she thinks that’s something to celebrate. Philip responds that it’s hard to celebrate knowing he let his family down but there just wasn’t enough money in the pot. Gabi asks if that’s because she got Otto kicked out of the game. Philip tells her that Otto was cheating, so he wouldn’t have won anything if not for her. Philip adds that he wouldn’t have been able to play the game without her. Philip declares that Gabi supported and believed in him when she had very little reason to do either. Gabi says she’s a big believer in second chances.

Xander explains that he went to see Johnny and Chanel to congratulate them on the new baby and deliver some flowers. Sarah thinks back to seeing Xander picking out flowers in the town square. Xander adds that Chanel was sleeping, so he was able to spend some time with Johnny and he was trying to figure out what he and EJ were talking about when Arianna overheard him. Xander says he didn’t find anything out specific but Johnny said there were things he wishes he could go back and undo. Xander adds that when he got to the apartment, a man was leaving in a hurry and he didn’t recognize him at the time but then thought he looked familiar, so he found him on the DiMera Enterprises website. Xander reveals it was George O’Halloran, who Brady recognizes as the head of DiMera Pharmaceuticals.

Philip asks Gabi what now. Gabi says they are in Monte Carlo with a boatload of money. Philip admits he doesn’t feel like partying or going on a shopping spree, so Gabi suggests a late dinner which he agrees to. Gabi asks what he’s in the mood for. Philip responds that whatever she wants is fine as he’s happy to spend time with her and take his mind off, but they get distracted by people celebrating winning at a table nearby in the casino.

Tate massages Holly to relax her while she worries that she’s ruining the vibes. Tate assures that he completely understands why she would be jumpy after everything she’s been through this year. Holly wishes she didn’t freak out when something happens. Tate mentions hating that Mason has her upset. Holly asks if he thinks she’s overreacting. Tate says not necessarily. Holly guesses he thinks she’s being paranoid. Tate calls it being cautious. Holly feels she can’t be blamed because every time things are going great in her life, something awful smacks her in the face. Tate says it makes perfect sense and wishes he could make it better. Holly assures that he is making it better by being there. Holly complains that awful things keep happening like Arianna overhearing Johnny and EJ talking about her and then some guy tries to steal her necklace, while now this Mason guy hates her for no reason. Tate encourages her not to let that get to her. Holly says it’s really hard when someone treats you like crap and you don’t know why. Holly wishes she knew what his problem with her was.

Sarah questions the head of DiMera Pharmaceuticals being at Johnny’s apartment. Xander notes the late hour and the way George stormed out of there meant it wasn’t a typical business meeting. Brady agrees that it sounds a little shady to him. Xander says adding that to what Arianna overheard makes it clear that Johnny is more involved in the Coriseal coverup than they thought. Sarah reveals that Brady and Steve came to the conclusion. Brady explains that last night, they went over the security footage from July 4th and it wasn’t easy to spot, but once they enhanced it, it was Johnny. Xander feels Johnny could be the weak link since he’s not a seasoned liar like EJ, so they should go after him. Sarah says they thought the same thing, but then realized how deep Johnny is in this, so he won’t just roll over, especially with everything going on at home and a whole family to protect. Xander says he sees their point and asks what they do. Sarah responds that she’s already done it.

Johnny goes to DiMera Enterprises to meet George, who says it’s about time. Johnny says he’s lucky he’s there at all as he had to ask Lani to stay with the kids. Johnny asks what the big emergency is. George hands Johnny a paper, revealing that a doctor at the hospital has filed an anonymous complaint against DiMera.

Gabi tells Philip that she can see what he’s brainstorming. Philip asks what if there was a way to get enough money to stop the sale of the house and save Titan. Gabi argues that he played great before but he had an incredible streak of luck that won’t happen again. Philip suggests maybe he’s still hot and asks why let the incredibly lucky streak go to waste. Philip declares it’s go big or go home as he approaches the casino table, leaving Gabi worried.

Tate tells Holly that Mason is obviously a complete loser if he can’t see how amazing she is. Holly tells him that he always makes her feel better, which he says is his goal in life. Holly knows he’s happy doing what he loves at the gym, but admits she really misses having him at school. Tate says he would be with her 24/7 if he could. Holly says that would be really nice. Holly brings up how badass it was to see Lani take down the mugger. Tate points out that is what she’s trained to do, so Holly wonders if Tate could train her.

Johnny questions just being notified of this. George explains that the complaint alleges that DiMera Pharmaceuticals had contaminated Coriseal and disposed of it on Smith Island. Johnny says that’s true, but argues that George said it was covered, so he questions how the hell they found out. George admits he’s not sure. Johnny tells George that he needs to call EJ. George says he tried and couldn’t get him, but somebody needs to handle this ASAP. Johnny questions how to handle it when none of this happened on his watch. George responds that as co-CEO, it’s all on his watch.

Xander questions Sarah filing a complaint with the FDA when he thought they agreed they didn’t want EJ to know they are onto him. Sarah clarifies that she filed it anonymously. Xander asks if she doesn’t think EJ will know it’s her. Brady feels if he does, he likely already knew there were onto him, so they need something to shake him up. Sarah adds that if DiMera are in panic mode, they may make a mistake. Brady states that they need them the feel the spotlight on them, especially with the resources of the FDA on their side. Xander questions what the FDA is going to do. Sarah says it can force DiMera to hand over records or demand inspections to put pressure on them that they can’t and maybe that publicity will bring forth witnesses that are afraid to speak. Xander turns to Brady and question how he could let Sarah do this, warning that he knows what EJ does to people who cross him and his family. Xander declares that they’ve lost everything, Titan, and the house, and now he’s put a target on Sarah’s back.

Gabi tries to stop Philip and talk him out of further gambling. Philip tries to bet everything on one spin at the roulette table which Gabi questions him doing. Philip calls it the only way to save Titan and the house. Gabi calls it a good way to lose everything and go broke again. Philip argues that what they have might as well be nothing because it’s not enough, so this is a risk he’s willing to take. Gabi asks if she doesn’t get a say here. Philip responds that he feels luck is on his side tonight and it means everything that she is too. Gabi then gives in, so Philip bets everything on #18, saying that was his father’s birthday and he’s doing it to save his legacy.

Tate thinks it’s a great idea for Holly to learn self defense and says he was actually going to suggest it. Holly jokes that he can turn her in to a certified badass like Lani. Tate says he can teach her the basics at least. Tate then suggests she get another teacher because when it comes to her, he’d rather be a lover than a fighter. Holly responds that they can be both.

Brady tells Xander that he loves Sarah and would never do anything to put her in harm’s way while Xander argues that’s exactly what he’s done. Sarah asks why Xander is blaming Brady when it was her idea. Sarah complains that Holly is her niece and Destiny is her patient who died while Holly almost did the same. Xander feels Sarah let her emotions take over. Sarah talks about thinking every day about what EJ did to them. Xander questions them just deciding to do this without letting him weigh in on it which Sarah admits they did. Sarah adds that she is truly sorry for that.

Johnny tells George that he has tried to stay out of this mess but questions what the FDA is going to find if they start digging. George responds that it depends on the evidence Sarah has. Johnny thought the complaint was filed anonymously. George says they both know Sarah has been poking around since everything with Holly. Johnny thought this was handled. George says he thought so too but Sarah continued to be a problem. Johnny asks if EJ covered his tracks or not. George says he tried his best but there’s no way of knowing. Johnny worries that being linked to the poisoning could bring down all of DiMera. George agrees and warns that it could send him, EJ, and Johnny to prison.

Philip prays to Victor as he bets it all on 18 and the ball lands on 18. Philip and Gabi can’t believe it as they hug and kiss in celebration. Philip is told that the casino will make arrangements for a wire transfer for the rest of his winnings. Philip hugs the dealer in excitement. Gabi can’t believe Philip did it again. Philip tells Gabi that they won because she is definitely his lucky charm. They both say they can’t believe it. Gabi calls Philip crazy while Philip declares he’s also freaking rich. Gabi tells Philip not to place another bet. Philip assures that he has everything he needs right here.

Holly tells Tate to show him some of his skills right here with no one around at the lake. Tate agrees to show her something but then jokes with her about not mixing romance with martial arts as they kiss.

Sarah agrees that they should’ve told Xander before filing the complaint as he deserved to be apart of that decision. Sarah says she just got so excited to get the ball rolling. Xander argues that they were supposed to be working together on this. Brady says none of that matters now since the complaint has been filed and they have to get ready for the fallout. Brady says if Xander feels betrayed and can’t get past this, he needs to let them know now if he wants to keep working with them or not.

Johnny repeats that it has to be okay. Johnny tells George that he and EJ are not responsible for any deaths regardless of any evidence Sarah thinks she has. Johnny gets a call from Lani about feeding Olivia. Johnny makes sure Chanel is still asleep and thanks Lani for doing this, adding that he’ll be home as soon as he can. George tells Johnny that this isn’t just about the legal implications but about the allegations going public. George adds that it would be awfully hard to prove they aren’t true, but there might be one way.

Tate and Holly lay together at the lake. Holly says she feels perfectly safe with him as they kiss. Holly assures that she does want to learn self defense for real, so Tate says they will get her something scheduled at the gym and take things very seriously as they continue kissing.

George tells Johnny that to get ahead of these allegations, they need to take a page out of EJ’s handbook and deny and deflect.

Xander questions asking him if he wants to be part of the team after they shut him out of the decision. Sarah says she’s not sorry about filing the complaint, but she does wish they talked to Xander first. Sarah adds that Brady’s right that what’s done is done so they just have to move forward. Brady says instead of waiting for EJ to retaliate against them, they need to be three steps ahead. Sarah notes that Xander knows better than anyone how EJ will react when he finds out about the complaint. Xander asks if they want him to be part of the team. Sarah says of course they do while Brady admits they need him. Xander agrees to be in then, saying he wants to make EJ pay for what he did to his family and jokes that someone needs to stop them from acting on their worst impulses which he calls ironic.

Philip and Gabi throw money all over their hotel room. Philip can’t believe he pulled this off while Gabi can’t believe he bet all his winnings. Philip reveals that when he placed the bet, he held back the $5 million that Gabi gave him because if he lost all his winnings, he wanted to give Gabi her money back because he owes her everything. Philip adds that Gabi said there’s no way he could get that lucky twice in one day, but says they’ll try for three times as they begin kissing in bed.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Marlena, Belle, and Sydney caught up at the pub. They talked about Sami not coming back to Salem anytime soon. While they were talking, they talked about the treasure hunt and Dominic. Paul called Belle who told her he investigated Dominic. He said Dominic went to boarding school. His roommate was Sami’s fiance, Dante. Sydney said she didn’t know anything about it. She said Dante never gave mafia vibes. Sydney said she would ask Dante about Dominic. Belle told her not to do that. Sydney ended up leaving. Belle and Marlena found it hard to believe that it was a coincidence that Dante meeting and proposing to Sami was a coincidence. Maggie talked to Julie about Philip gambling. Julie talked about Philip’s debt to the Vitali family. Maggie said she didn’t know how she could trust Philip again. She told Julie that she loved Philip like a son and Victor would want her to watch out for him. Julie told her she could do that at Titan.

Theo told Abe that he shouldn’t have taken the job at DiMera. He told Abe that he couldn’t trust Johnny since he lied to him so he quit. Abe said Lexie would be proud of him. Theo told him about the job offer Gabi gave him. He told Abe that he wasn’t sure it would be a good idea. Abe said Theo should go with his gut. Johnny went to DiMera and saw Theo’s letter of resignation. EJ stormed in the office and was upset about what happened while he was gone. Johnny told him that George already ripped into him, but he had his hands full with his baby and sick wife. They argued over whether or not Theo was needed. Johnny said he was lying for everyone and he was disgusted by it. He let EJ know that he was the CEO and that EJ couldn’t tell him what to do. EJ got a text from George to meet at the house. When EJ got home, EJ said that Johnny didn’t have what it took to run the company. George agreed with him. EJ said Sarah would be found responsible for it. George said it would work. EJ said people died on George’s watch. He warned George that he would be taking the fall if it didn’t go away.

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