BTG Short Recap August 20, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Michele & Cheryl

Leslie couldn’t believe she was going to be rich courtesy of Dupree money. She was thankful that the Duprees were responsible for her money. Leslie talked about being black royalty and enjoy her life beyond the gates. She accused Anita of being responsible for Barbara’s death. Since the group thought of themselves as sisters, Leslie wondered if she could consider her an aunt. Things got heated between them women, and Anita slapped her. Vernon showed up while they were arguing. Leslie told him that Anita slapped her. She played the victim, and Vernon threw her out. Anita got sick at the idea of what happened.

Shanice was ready to start physical therapy with Derek, but he wasn’t ready for it. He wanted to watch television. After their session, Derek thanked her for her help. He wondered if his condition would scare her if they were more than friends. Shanice said it wouldn’t scare her, and it wouldn’t scare Ashley. Madison told Ashley that she and Derek need a support system. Andre showed up and hugged her. Ashely didn’t want to be bothered with him hugging her. She confronted him about kissing Dani. Ashley wondered if that was a different type of break up. Andre told her that he did break things off with Dani. After Ashley left, things changed between him and Dani. Unfortunately, Ashley didn’t care about that. After everything that happened, she realized that she belonged with Derek. Kat went to the police station to talk to Jacob about busting Leslie. While they were talking, they discussed her love life. Kat admitted that Tomas was hot, but the sex wasn’t. She wasn’t sure if she was the problem or if it was Tomas. Jacob joked that the best way to find out was for her to sleep with another guy. He told her that things took time. Tomas was bonding with Eva. She was struggling to figure out her identity.

 

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Gabi went to Steve’s office because her bosses at Titan-DiMera were upset over the Freedom of Information Act he filed. Steve thought it was a good thing because the paperwork checked out.  He said they must have something to hide if they were upset. At the town square, Belle and Philip talked about Johnny’s case. She said she hoped she didn’t do a good enough job and he would be found not guilty. Philip said he heard about what EJ did in court and pretended to be upset about the breakup. Belle knew he wasn’t upset. Philip said he would be there if she needed him. Gabi showed up. Belle left to see Steve. Gabi invited Philip to lunch so they could talk about work. Philip asked if she was the one trying to blow up the Titan-DiMera merger. Gabi said she didn’t have anything to do with it. Philip said he believed her for now and agreed to lunch but they couldn’t talk about business. Belle went to Steve’s office. He asked her if she knew anything about Philip doing something suspicious with the business. She said she couldn’t help him because of attorney/client privilege. After Belle left, Steve called Paul to see if the ISA could get the original court records where Philip got half of Titan.

EJ flashed back to Rachel shooting him. He was shocked. Marlena got Rachel out of the room when she realized EJ remembered what happened. She said she didn’t know that Rachel was the shooter, but she suspected she was. EJ was furious that Rachel let Johnny take the fall for what she did. Marlena said Rachel had dissociative amnesia and didn’t remember shooting him. She said they had to be careful about how it came out or it would cause more damage. EJ said he knew Rachel didn’t mean to shoot him. He said she wanted to know where her grandmother was. EJ blamed himself for what happened. Kristen came in and wondered what was going on. EJ told her Rachel was the one who shot him. Kristen refused to believe it. EJ told her what happened the night he was shot. Marlena said it explained the nightmares and stomachaches. EJ said he wasn’t going to sacrifice his son for her daughter. When Kristen and EJ were alone, she begged him not to tell the police the truth. EJ said he didn’t want to turn Rachel in but his son’s life was on the line. He said he loved Rachel, but he wouldn’t let his son go down for something Rachel did. He said she had to come up with something or he would have no choice but to tell the truth.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Marlena ran into Julie while she was reading a book. Julie was reading about dealing with situations that you can’t control. From there, Julie ranted about Chad’s relationship with Cat after what she did. Marlena reminded her that Chad and Cat were just friends. Julie reminded her that Liz sang a song about friends turning into lovers. She wanted to change the subject and talk about something more fun like the bookstore. Marlena heard that it was for sale. Julie considered buying the store, and Marlena suggested that she do it. They moved on to talking about their grief and how hard it was to move on from it. Marlena thanked Foster (from the bookstore) for giving Rachel a book on the house. Julie scolded him for giving away books. She told him that’s why he was going out of business. Julie wondered if anyone was interested in buying the store. He felt like independent books were a dying breed. Julie believed that they could be resurrected and wanted to buy the store. At the courthouse, Johnny fired EJ and wanted to represent himself. Belle called Chanel back to the stand. She wanted to know why she went to the DiMera mansion to threaten EJ while they watched the video. Chanel insisted that she didn’t threaten him and insisted the video was doctored. After she questioned Chanel, Belle called Johnny to the stand. She asked him about his opinion of the footage. He talked about the errors in the video. Johnny believed it was a deep fake and had an AI expert who was willing to agree to it. Belle reminded him that the police authenticated the video. Johnny told her that Stefano discredited the police numerous times and taught his children how to do the same thing. He stared at his father at the back of the courtroom. Johnny rested his case, and the judge called for a recess.

let Johnny know that she was proud of him. Johnny was concerned about delivering a closing argument. Chanel believed that he would do a great job. Belle told EJ that he should be ashamed of himself for what he did to Chanel. They knew he didn’t have any shame. Court was back in session, and Belle started her closing argument. She told the jury about Johnny’s mindset and motive the night EJ was shot. Belle talked about Johnny’s disappointment when he found out EJ survived. Johnny gave his closing argument. He admitted that he went to his father’s place to kill him, but he couldn’t do it. Johnny said that almost everyone in Salem wanted to shoot his father. He was sorry that someone used the gun he brought to shoot him, but he didn’t do it. Johnny wanted the jury to find him not guilty. The judge sent the jury to deliberate the case. EJ let Johnny know that he didn’t prove anything to the jury, and he should have let him finish the trial. Johnny wanted him to screw himself for what he did to Chanel. He walked away from him. Belle told EJ that Johnny and Chanel thought he was as despicable as she did. EJ didn’t want her to be smug about it. He told her that her own mother thought she might have shot him. Belle thought his accusations were ridiculous. At the time, she didn’t have a reason to want him dead. Marlena brought Rachel to the DiMera mansion. EJ made a drink, and Rachel berated him for drinking early. He told her that he was becoming more like her mother all the time. Marlena talked to EJ while Rachel played with a decorative glass ball from the mantle. Marlena told her to put it down because it was glass. EJ flashed back to Rachel pointing the gun at him the night he was shot. He fell into the chair in shock. Belle ran into Johnny and Chanel at the square. She hoped Johnny was exonerated, and they found out who shot EJ. Belle told them that EJ made a crazy comment about her mother thinking that she shot him. She didn’t think it made any sense. Belle realized that whoever shot EJ was someone he and Marlena would protect. EJ remembered telling Rachel to put the gun down and give it to him. She said she wouldn’t do it until he told her where her grandmother was. He told her that he didn’t know where she was, but Rachel didn’t believe him. Rachel dropped the glass she was playing with, and it shattered. EJ recalled that she shot him and dropped his glass. In the flashback, Rachel seemed shocked by what she did. Marlena looked at EJ and he reacted because Rachel remembered what happened too.

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BTG Short Recap Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

Leslie wanted to meet with Anita. Anita agreed to meet with her. Vernon wondered if Anita wanted him to stay around. Anita said that Leslie wasn’t a threat since he never slept with Leslie or had a child with her. Eva tried to talk Leslie out of meeting with Anita but it didn’t do any good. She suggested that Leslie be careful. Leslie went to the Dupree mansion to meet with Anita. She said good things about Barbara and then accused her of driving Barbara of killing herself. While they were talking, things got heated and Anita wanted her to leave. Leslie said she wasn’t as easy to get rid of as her mother was. She told Anita that Barbara was her mother. Anita was shocked to learn that Leslie was telling the truth. Leslie let her know that she would be getting the money from her mother’s fund. Anita was furious. Leslie wondered why Anita was upset since the money wasn’t coming from her. Anita said the money did come from her.

Martin and Smitty were happy that Tyrell and Samantha weren’t interested in seeing June again. Samantha appeared to have second thoughts about not seeing June. Once June accepted that her children didn’t want to see her, she blamed Naomi for what happened. She ripped up the picture of her children. June blamed Naomi for getting her hopes up for nothing. She said she wished she never saw them. June said Naomi ruined her life. Martin was happy that Smitty said he could spend the night even if he had to sleep on the couch. Naomi wanted Jacob to find June who was at Martin and Smitty’s house. They tried to get rid of June, but she tried to reach out to the children. Tyrell and Samantha came in the room to listen to what June had to say. June looked at the children before she left. Later on, June asked Naomi and Jacob to help her get a job and a place to stay. She said her kids were going to need her one day and she wanted to show them that they could be proud of her.

 

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Days Short Recap Monday, August 18, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Steve told Kayla about Alex’s police record. He asked for her help with his case. Steve asked if Stephanie said anything to her about Philip or Alex’s business dealings. Kayla said the only thing she knew was Stephanie broke up with Philip because she saw a bad side to him. She said that Stephanie saw a side that reminded her of Victor. Stephanie called Steve to come over to her place so she could confront him about investigating Alex. Steve couldn’t answer her but he couldn’t let her warn Alex about a potential threat. While they were talking, Steve realized Stephanie knew more than she was letting on. Gabi and Xander agreed to keep things professional and forget about their kiss. Xander asked her how to know the red flags when picking out a nanny. Gabi told him he was the red flag because he was a control freak. She said he couldn’t raise his daughter the way he ran his company. While she was talking, she said she had an idea of how to make the company better. Before she could answer, Alex showed up. When Gabi left, Alex told Xander that the person looking into them was using an alias so there was no way to find out who it was. Xander said his failure was unacceptable. He said the merger was above board but things were compromised because of Philip’s fraud. Xander said he wanted to hire Stephanie to help them get ahead of the story. Alex didn’t think she would do it. Xander ordered him to make it happen. He said Alex wouldn’t want to see what would happen if he messed up again.

Belle told Marlena how disappointed her father would be that she fell for EJ. She got a call that Johnny fired EJ as his lawyer and told Marlena that Johnny thought EJ was the one who did the deepfake of Chanel on the video. Belle said that was one more reason why she shouldn’t be with EJ. She vowed to never get involved with anyone who doesn’t respect her or she doesn’t respect. Marlena said she was proud of her and that John would be proud of her too. Later, Marlena ran into Kayla and told her she was taking time off. She said she would see a few patients, but she couldn’t help anyone until she helped herself. Kayla said she could give her a list of grief groups that could help her. Chanel told Johnny to stop trying to prove that the video was a deepfake and focus on clearing his name. Johnny said he wasn’t going to let her take the blame for something she didn’t do. While they were talking, Johnny told Chanel that he fired EJ and was going to represent himself. Chanel panicked but Johnny assured her that he knew what he was doing. EJ talked to Tony about Johnny firing him. Tony assumed EJ had the video of Chanel doctored. He advised EJ to admit what he did and asked for forgiveness. Later on, Gabi let Tony know that she was getting closer to finding the information that will help him undermine Titan-DiMera. She wanted him to put their agreement in writing. After they worked out the agreement, Gabi signed it. At the courthouse, EJ told Belle that he let everyone down in his life after he was given several chances. Johnny and Chanel showed up in the courtroom. He yelled at EJ for what he did to Chanel. When EJ tried to defend himself, Johnny said he was forcing him to choose between him and Chanel. Johnny said he chose Chanel.

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BTG Short Recap Monday, August 18, 2025

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Michele & Cheryl

Leslie thought Peaches lied to her about her mother being an Articulette because of Nicole. Peaches told her that she didn’t know Nicole. What she did know was Leslie was going to be very rich. She took out different documents to show her. Peaches told her that a mystery donor set up a trust fund for Barbara’s relatives, and Leslie was her last survivor. Leslie didn’t understand so Peaches kept explaining it to her. After her conversation with Peaches, Leslie talked to Eva about what she told her. Eva thought she lost her mind so Peaches confirmed the story. After Peaches left, Leslie and Eva tried to process what she just said. Leslie planned to get Peaches the best medical care if there was any truth to what she told her. Shanice was shocked when Ashley asked her to be Derek’s physical therapist. She vowed to push Derek to his limit despite their issues. Shanice wanted to get Derek walking again. Ashley checked on Derek, and he thought he had feeling in his legs. It turned out he was suffering from phantom limb syndrome. Shanice went to his room and let him know that she would be his therapist. Madison went to Derek’s room and told him that he had a long recovery. She informed him that he would be in a wheelchair when he left the hospital. Madison didn’t know when he would walk again.

Nicole advised Vanessa to cut ties with Joey. Vanessa avoided responding when Nicole was summoned to meet Madison at Uptown. She met with Madison at Uptown. Madison wanted to know about getting emotionally involved with her patients. Vanessa showed up too and saw Doug meeting with Jacob. He talked to Jacob about bringing down Joey. Madison told Nicole that being in love with Chelsea was messing with her head. Nicole gave her good advice about separating work from her relationship. Vanessa overheard Doug and Jacob’s conversation about bringing down Joey. After Jacob left, Vanessa warned Doug to keep her happy or he could kiss their lifestyle goodbye since he quit his job. Ted was at Uptown too and saw Nicole at the club. Peaches arrived and struck up a conversation with Ted. He talked to her about what happened with Nicole. She advised him to get off the barstool and go after Nicole. Every minute he wasted was time he wouldn’t get back with her. After Peaches and Madison left the club, Ted approached Nicole. She made a joke about him being with an older woman. He apologized for his behavior. She suggested that he give up expecting a reunion.

 

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Days Nitpicks & Flubs For The Week Of August 11, 2025

Nitpicks & Flubs

 

by Michele & Cheryl

Monday

-Why would Cat kiss Chad when she knew she was sick? She’s disgusting to spread her germs like that.

-What made Xander think that he could hit Brady when he was drunk? He knows that Titan was losing money, and he took a chance hitting Brady.

-Sarah said everyone at the restaurant was staring at her and Brady, but no one was looking at them.

-Belle claimed she didn’t want to be around EJ, but she went to the DiMera mansion to yell at him. She could have called him and told him how she felt about him.

Tuesday

-Sophia chose to talk about what happened with her baby while she was outside. Anyone could have heard her talking about her plan with Melinda.

-Speaking of Sophia’s plan, Amy should have heard what she said when was behind her when she mentioned Tate.

-Marlena was against doing the hypnosis sessions with EJ. She could have recommended another psychiatrist to help him.

Wednesday

-Tate managed not to see Sophia while he and Holly were at the town square. Sophia tried to hide, but she wasn’t hard to spot with the light color on that she was wearing.

-Rafe clearly showed his phone to the camera when he read Cat’s text.

-Rafe let Javi taste his soup, and he put the spoon back in the pot.

-Belle needs manners. She barged into Tate’s room without waiting for him to acknowledge her.

-Did Chad forget that Cat met Gabi? He said he has a friend named Gabi as if she didn’t know her. They met not long after she pretended to be Abby.

Thursday

-Sarah got jealous at the idea of Xander having sex with Gwen. Why does she care if she doesn’t want to be with him?

-Xander didn’t have a mark on his face after Sarah slapped him.

-Sarah had an issue with Gwen because of the things she did to her, but she was okay with talking to Kristen after what she did to her.

Friday

-Leo and Adam were in their hotel room one minute and at the courthouse the next.

-Tate was obsessed with meeting his child. He could have agreed to raise the baby, but he didn’t want to do it.

-Sophia cried without any tears.

 

 

 

The opinions in these articles are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of TVMEG.COM or its other volunteers.

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GH Short Recap Wednesday, August 20, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Maxie’s family and friends gather at the hospital to wait for Maxie to wake up. Lucas tells everyone that the tests show that Maxie’s heart is fine, but the tests show the presence of an enzyme that he has never seen inside her body.

Lisel tells Lulu that the longer Maxie takes to wake up the more likely that she will slip into a coma.

Anna asks Lucas if he thinks Maxie could have been poisoned.

Chas interviews eight of the nine witnesses that were at the Metro Court pool and they all say that they didn’t see Michael hit Drew. Drew accuses Sonny of paying off the witnesses. Drew signs his statement and then ADA Turner tells Martin to sign Drew’s statement confirming that Drew is telling the truth. Martin takes the pen but hasn’t decided what he should do.

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Y&R Short Recap Thursday, August 21, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Nate has a talk with Devon about Audra. Devon tells Nate to trust his gut, it will tell him if Audra is lying.

Nate later tells Audra that he knows in his guts that she is lying to him.

Victor surprises Claire and Kyle by telling them that he won’t stand in the way of their relationship anymore. Victor talks to Kyle privately and tells him he will be watching him.

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Days Update Friday, August 15, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Arianna goes home and startles Javi as he was dancing with his headphones in. Javi suggests she have some of Rafe’s chicken tortilla soup. Javi notices Arianna has a brochure from Salem University. Arianna explains that she’s thinking of withdrawing from the University of Arizona and enrolling at Salem U. Javi questions when she made that decision. Arianna says she’s been considering it for some time and adds that she hasn’t talked to Gabi about it yet. They joke about how happy Gabi would be for her to be staying in Salem. Arianna agrees that Gabi will be thrilled but she’s not so sure about Will and Sonny.

Leo is brought to the Salem Inn to be sequestered where he complains to another juror about being unable to cover the trial and locked away from outside gossip. Leo talks about his idea for a podcast on who shot EJ. The other man, Adam, begins talking about his excitement to be staying in an expensive hotel which confuses Leo. He tells Leo about his wife knowing him as the ex-head writer of Body and Soul and being a big fan. Adam excitedly says they don’t need cell phones when they can use the landline in the room. The bailiff returns and informs Leo and Adam that they will be sharing a room. Leo argues that it must be a mistake and pleads against the decision.

Belle goes over her notes in court as Paulina enters and talks about being there as moral support for Chanel. Paulina asks how Belle is doing. Belle says she’s hanging in there but wishes her personal life hadn’t been dragged in to this. Paulina praises Belle’s behavior throughout these proceedings, acknowledging that she never wanted to take this case in the first place. Paulina declares that when this trial is over, they will all be relieved.

Outside the courtroom, Johnny talks to EJ about how much Chanel has been through so he asks EJ to not drag her through the mud. EJ questions leaving evidence of reasonable doubt on the table. Johnny confirms that he is, reminding EJ that he hired him as his lawyer which means he is his boss and he must defer to him. EJ reluctantly agrees to whatever Johnny wants as Chanel comes over and hugs Johnny.

Sophia goes to the Brady Pub and sees Tate. She asks him what’s wrong. Tate informs her that he just received an e-mail from their baby’s adoptive parents.

Arianna informs Javi that Will and Sonny still think she’s going back to Arizona for school since she told them that she was only staying in Salem for the summer. Arianna says she was excited to go back but being in Salem, reconnecting with family and friends has been nice. Javi encourages her not to worry too much and says Will and Sonny will miss her but he’s sure they just want what’s best for her. Arianna doesn’t want them to think she’s leaving because she didn’t love living with them. Arianna comments that Will and Sonny are the best girl dads, just like Javi would’ve been. Javi thanks her for saying that. Arianna hopes she didn’t overstep. Javi says no and that he thinks about her all the time. Arianna guesses Leo doesn’t know. Javi confirms that he doesn’t want him to know because it’s too hard to explain. Arianna says she totally understands and her lips are sealed.

Leo and Adam are brought in to their hotel room. Leo complains about it being a little small while Adam talks about ordering room service. Leo is annoyed as Adam continues talking until there’s a knock on the door to let them know it’s time to go to court. Leo is relieved while Adam says they can continue talking when they get back.

Paulina tells Belle that all communication with the attorney general sounds like they are satisfied with Belle. Belle says she wants to do her job, but worries about being responsible for sending Johnny to prison. Paulina encourages not getting ahead of themselves as it’s impossible to know what a jury is going to do, especially if EJ plays the video of Chanel in court. Belle points out that the police didn’t think that was enough to charge Chanel and it’s not enough for her to charge her either if Johnny gets acquitted. Paulina prays that he does. Paulina understands EJ is throwing everything at Johnny’s defense but still worries that Chanel’s reputation is at stake and they both know how damning the video is.

Chanel asks EJ if everything is okay. EJ says it’s just fine and that Johnny is just channeling his inner DiMera. Chanel is not sure she likes that. Johnny clarifies that he was just asking EJ to play nice with her on the stand which he agreed to do. Chanel tells EJ that she appreciates that and everything he’s done to defend Johnny as Paulina said it looked like the case is swinging in his favor. EJ states that he’s done everything he can to raise doubt and get him acquitted so he just prays that it’s enough.

Javi finishes a call and informs Arianna that one of the paramedics called in sick, so he asks if Arianna can watch Tesoro. Arianna excitedly says she’d love to, especially since it won’t be long before they have to say goodbye to him. Javi says he’s been trying not to think of that. Arianna says the whole situation makes her think of how Sophia had to give up her own baby and how that had to be a million times harder. Arianna and Javi agree that it’s going to suck.

Sophia asks Tate about the e-mail from the baby’s parents. Tate informs her that they said they are sorry but they can’t let him meet the baby as they need time to bond as a family. Sophia says she’s sorry as she knows he really wanted to meet her, but maybe it’s for the best. Tate questions how the hell it’s for the best. Sophia thinks it would just make it harder for him to say goodbye. Tate argues that it’s not for the best and declares he’s not giving up.

Court resumes with Chanel taking the witness stand. EJ asks if she believes Johnny is guilty of the crime he is accused of, that he shot him in cold blood. Chanel says absolutely not and that Johnny is innocent. EJ asks how she is so certain of that. Chanel responds that she loves him and knows he’s telling the truth. EJ asks if those are the only reasons she’s certain. Chanel reiterates that she knows Johnny didn’t shoot EJ. EJ questions her having no doubt at all even though she’s aware of his so called motives of learning his parents complicated history. Chanel remarks that she’s aware that EJ raped Sami and she’s aware of how Johnny felt when he first found out. EJ brings up that it was so devastating that Johnny changed his mind about adopting a child with Chanel, which was an extremely difficult time for her which Chanel admits. EJ asks who Chanel blamed for this terrible misfortune. Chanel admits that she blamed EJ.

Arianna and Javi walk to the Brady Pub with Tesoro. Arianna mentions that she’s going to bring him inside and jokes about Roman and Kate seeing her come in with a stroller. Javi then says goodbye to them and heads to work.

Sophia reminds Tate that when they signed the adoption papers, that’s it and their baby is someone else’s now. Tate doesn’t give a damn and argues that they have to let him see her. Tate declares that he’s going to find the lawyer that Sophia hired to get the adoptive parents to let him meet his daughter. Arianna then enters the Pub with Tesoro.

EJ brings up Chanel coming to his home on the night that he was shot and he was very angry with him which Chanel confirms. EJ then reveals to the jury that a video camera was planted in his home and what they are about to see are the final images it recorded before he was shot.

Arianna greets Sophia and Tate. Arianna mentions babysitting Tesoro and then tells Sophia that she’s very sorry as it’s probably the last thing she needed. Arianna offers to go but Sophia asks her to stay and says she’d like to see Tesoro again. Tate questions what she means again.

EJ plays the video of Chanel arguing with him. Chanel has the video stopped and swears that she didn’t say the things in the video but the judge has the video proceed where Chanel warned EJ that she wouldn’t let him live long enough to hurt Johnny or anyone else she cared about ever again. EJ declares it speaks for itself. Chanel tries to argue but EJ says no further questions. The judge informs Belle that they will begin with her cross examination of Chanel tomorrow.

Tate questions when Sophia saw Tesoro before. Sophia explains that she ran in to Javi in the town square. Tate mentions running in to Leo and even got to hold Tesoro. Arianna jokes that Tesoro gets around and is everyone’s bundle of joy while Sophia tries to hold back her emotions. Tate asks if Sophia is alright. Sophia says she’s sorry and she just can’t as she breaks down crying while Tate hugs her, telling her it’s alright.

Leo and Adam return to their hotel room as Adam continues telling Leo stories. He goes over the video of Chanel but Leo reminds him they aren’t supposed to talk about the trial. He suggests talking about football but Leo is not interested. He offers to play a game of cards but Leo declines. Adam insists on teaching Leo a game and says he’ll call the front desk for a deck of cards. Leo then asks him to cool it and complains of a migrain which worries Adam. Leo then makes up further symptoms and wonders if he’s having a stroke, then convinces Adam to call 911.

EJ goes home to the DiMera Mansion and calls Johnny, leaving a message that he knows he’s upset with him but asks him to call him back as they need to talk.

Johnny is with Chanel and Paulina in the town square. Johnny tells them that EJ just called but he’s not going to even listen to his voicemail. Paulina is sure EJ is going to try to spin things. Johnny says he’s sorry. Chanel says now that she’s seen the video, she knows things didn’t happen that way and that she said some of those things but not all of it. Belle comes over and tells them that she’s so sorry. Johnny then tells Belle that the video was fake. Chanel is relieved that Johnny believes her. Johnny adds that he has reason to believe the video was manipulated using AI and he thinks it was a deep fake. Belle states that Salem PD forensics authenticated it. Johnny argues that film is his business and if he’s right, he’d like to send the video along to someone he knows that’s a leading authority in AI. Johnny argues that as evidence, he has a right to take a closer look. Belle states that EJ would have to file a formal request as Johnny’s attorney. Johnny declares that if he’s right that the video is a deep fake, he thinks EJ might be the one behind it.

Javi and a paramedic arrive at the Salem Inn where Adam tells them about Leo, identifying him as a famous TV writer. Javi quickly realizes what’s going on as Leo starts to say he suddenly feels better and calls it a miracle. Adam worries about the symptoms Leo mentioned. Javi tells the paramedic that he’s got this and asks Adam to leave the room to give them privacy. Adam tells Leo to feel better as he exits. Leo jokingly asks Javi to rescue him and complains about how much Adam was annoying him and wouldn’t stop talking. Javi tells Leo that if he takes him to the hospital, it could get him out of jury duty but Leo says no way after what happened at the trial today, feeling it’s now worth more than a ticket to “game seven of the super bowl”. Leo declares there is no way he’s giving up his seat now. Javi says he’ll just tell Adam that Leo needs some peace and quiet which Leo says would be perfect as they kiss.

Arianna tells Sophia that she’s so sorry as she should not have stayed with the baby. Sophia says it’s okay as she asked her to and tells her she doesn’t have to leave but Arianna says she should get Tesoro home anyways and exits. Sophia apologizes to Tate for getting upset as she really thought she was doing okay and she was healing. Sophia guesses she thought she would be over it by now, but she’s not. Tate apologizes for continuing to bring it up and says he can’t believe he’s been such a jerk about this when Sophia was just trying to do what’s best for the baby. Tate worries that he’s just made things worse. Sophia understands it’s been really hard for him too. Tate says that doesn’t give him the right to cause her more pain. Tate decides he needs to stop obsessing about seeing his daughter and just let it go.

Chanel argues that Johnny’s right as it’s the only thing that makes sense because all of that stuff at the end of the video never happened. Paulina talks about the weird things people do nowadays but she could’ve sworn it was Chanel on the video. Paulina asks if AI is really that good. Belle admits it can be. Chanel wonders how it’s possible that the police supposedly analyzed the video like crazy and thought it was legit. Belle calls that a good question. Paulina suggests that EJ could have a mole in the forensics department and she will look in to that. Belle says anything is possible with EJ but technology is moving so fast that the police department can’t always keep up. Belle adds that something like that would cost a fortune. Paulina wonders who would have that fortune.

Johnny goes to the DiMera Mansion. EJ assumes he got his message but Johnny says he didn’t play it. EJ says he knows Johnny is upset but he did exactly what he asked and just played the video but he never accused Chanel of shooting him. Johnny tells EJ to save his pathetic excuses. Johnny informs EJ that he just came to tell him he’s fired.

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GH Short Recap Tuesday, August 19, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Maxie collapses in the middle of Thema makeup demonstration the Home and Heart Channel. The ambulance is called and the paramedics think Maxie is having a heart attack. Brook Lynn calls Spinelli and Lulu on the phone and tells them Lucy went with Maxie to the hospital. Lucas uses the defibrillator to shock his cousin’s heart back into normal sinus rhythm after three tries with the defibrillator paddles.

Lucas talks to Maxie’s family and friends trying to figure out what could have affected Maxie’s heart. Lucas thinks it could have been Deception’s Youth Truth serum but Lucy tells him that Maxie was involved in the development of the serum and has never had a negative reaction to it.

Carly and Nina get into an argument about Willow. Carly throws Nina into the Metro Court pool.

Sonny and Michael meet with Diane and she tells them that the only way Michael can keep from going to jail is to find an unbiased witness who saw Drew talking to Wiley at the Metro Court pool before Michael punched Drew. Drew goes to the hospital to document the injury to his eye before he heads to the police station to report what Michael did to him.

ADA Justine Turner goes to the police station and asks Anna to open an investigation into Drew Cain because she believes that Drew is a corrupt politician. Justine tells Anna she can’t tell her how she knows Drew is a corrupt politician. Anna tells Justine that she can’t open an investigation against a member of the U.S House of Representatives without a good reason but Justine tells Anna that she can’t tell her the reason yet.

Drew arrives at the police station to give an official statement about Michael punching him. Justine tells Anna to bring Michael in so he can be questioned about what happened with Drew.

Vaughn and Josslynn have sex at the Five Poppies Resort while Britt and Jason have a long awaited talk. Jason tells Britt he found a way out of the cave before it collapsed and then he became an FBI informant to keep Carly from going to prison. Brit tells Jason that she faked her death to keep her family from watching her deteriorate from Huntington’s disease. Britt also tells Jason that her disease is in remission.

Jason tells Britt that the WSB has flagged the resort and she could be in danger. Britt tells Jason she doesn’t need to be rescued by him. Britt asks Jason to leave before she calls security.

Josslynn and Vaughn decide the best way to try and save the mission is for her to talk to Britt and see if Britt will tell her if she is working with Professor Dalton. Britt calls someone on the phone and tells the person that they have a problem that must be taken care of right away.

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Y&R Short Recap Wednesday, August 20, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Billy tells Sally that he has a secret weapon that will help him get Chancellor Industries back and beat Cane and Victor too.

Nate interrupts the drinks that Holden, Claire, Daniel, and Tessa are having to ask Claire how Victoria is dealing with Cole’s death. Claire takes the opportunity to tell Nate that Victor paid Audra to seduce Kyle so they would break up but, her plan failed, so Victor stopped funding Vivrante.

Audra later tells Nate that Claire is lying because she believes that Kyle is telling her the truth. Nate believes Claire is telling the truth but he has some doubt until Audra slips and tells Nate that Victor is right, Kyle will break Claire’s heart. Nate wonders how Audra knows what Victor thinks about Claire’s relationship with Kyle.

Tessa thanks Daniel for being a bright spot in her life and helping her believe that she could be happy again. Daniel tells Tessa he feels the same way about her.

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Y&R Short Recap Tuesday, August 19, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Diane surprises Jack with an Italian dinner at home and they talk about rescheduling their honeymoon.

Daniel meets Holden and he asks Holden if it is a good idea that Phyllis work for Cane. Holden doesn’t give Daniel any information about Cane’s plans for Genoa City. Daniel and Holden run into Claire and Tessa at Society and they all have Vespers together.

Phyllis tells Cane that she thinks that the Newman family is scared of him because Nick wants to be his ally. Cane is worried because Charlie and Mattie won’t answer his phone calls. Phyllis advises Cane to forgive himself for his mistakes and then explain to Charlie and Mattie why he became Aristotle Dumas. Phyllis tells Cane that Charlie and Mattie will eventually forgive him. Cane tells Phyllis that they are not partners, he is her boss.

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Days Update Thursday, August 14, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Xander goes to the Kiriakis Mansion and asks Sarah if Victoria is ready to go. Sarah responds that the nanny will bring her down in a minute and asks how his session with Marlena went. Xander says it went well and Marlena agreed to take him on as a patient, so he will be able to uphold the terms of their custody agreement. Sarah remarks that she’ll believe it when she sees it. Xander says at least he’s making an effort. Sarah argues that it’s only because she forced him to. Sarah brings up Xander taking a swing at Brady. Xander blames that on Sarah deliberately provoking him by kissing Brady. Sarah complains that it doesn’t give him the right to do that. Xander doesn’t want to relive the events of last night and complains of a splitting headache from the hangover. Xander asks if there’s any coffee around but Sarah instead slaps him.

Kristen and Rachel eat together at the Brady Pub. Kristen tries to get her excited about shopping but Rachel argues that she only let her buy all the stuff because she felt bad that she had to testify in court. Kristen says she had a tough morning and wanted to make it up to her. Rachel remarks that at least it’s over for her, but points out that Kristen still has to testify. Kristen confirms that after lunch, it will be her turn to take the stand.

Johnny goes home to Chanel, who asks him how court was this morning. Johnny admits it was tough and that Rachel taking the stand was hard to watch. Johnny says he does have some good news and informs her that Marlena hypnotized EJ again to try to help him remember the night of the shooting and this time it worked. Chanel excitedly asks if EJ remembers who shot him. Johnny clarifies that he doesn’t, but he remembers that it wasn’t him.

EJ goes home to the DiMera Mansion and thinks back to Marlena telling him they won’t have another hypnosis session. Gwen walks in and pours drinks for them. Gwen guesses from EJ’s demeanor that it didn’t go well in court which EJ confirms. EJ informs her that he did however remember that his son did not shoot him. Gwen calls Johnny the only other DiMera who hasn’t been dismissive or snarky towards her, so she will drink to that. Gwen then asks EJ who did shoot him. EJ responds that he doesn’t know, but he’s quite sure that Marlena does know.

Marlena goes home where Belle asks how her errand was. Marlena admits that she actually just wanted to take a few minutes to talk to EJ in private to thank him for going easy on Rachel on the stand. Belle acknowledges that he was surprisingly restrained. Marlena adds that she also let him know they will not be doing any more hypnosis sessions. Belle questions why not. Marlena doesn’t think his subconscious will be capable of remembering who shot him, so any more sessions would be a waste of time.

Xander remarks that he thought Sarah abhorred violence. Sarah responds that she thought maybe he’d like to know what it’s like to be on the receiving end. Xander suggests she could take some of Marlena’s anger management sessions too. Xander points out that if she’s trying to avenge Brady, he didn’t even hit him. Sarah argues that he tried to and then tells him that the slap wasn’t just for Brady, but for Xander breaking their marriage vows the first chance he got. Xander questions what the hell she’s talking about. Sarah tells him not to play innocent. Sarah shouts that she knows he jumped in to bed with Gwen and tells him to just admit he slept with her.

Gwen questions EJ saying that Marlena knows who shot him. EJ responds that she’s obviously protecting somebody. Gwen asks if this person means more to her than her grandson and questions why she wouldn’t share the information to exonerate Johnny. EJ responds that he’s trying to figure that out.

Chanel questions EJ knowing it wasn’t Johnny if he doesn’t remember who shot him. Johnny explains that under hypnosis, EJ couldn’t identify the shooter but he referred to them as “her” which means it wasn’t him and could’ve been Gabi, Ava, or Kristen. Chanel includes herself but Johnny argues that they already know it wasn’t her. Chanel worries that EJ is putting her on the witness stand today and will use that against her. Johnny says that he is EJ’s client so EJ works for him. Johnny decides he will call EJ now and tell him to strike Chanel from the witness list.

Gwen questions Marlena refusing to have another hypnosis session with EJ which he confirms. Gwen guesses that EJ deduced Marlena is protecting this person as they question why else Marlena would refuse when it would exonerate Johnny. EJ guesses the culprit must be someone that he also cares about. Gwen goes over that the shooter is a woman that he and Marlena both want to protect. Gwen brings up Sami but EJ says it can’t be and that he asked Marlena point blank and she firmly said no. Gwen asks who Marlena thinks shot him if it’s someone they both want to protect. Gwen then asks if EJ is thinking what she’s thinking. EJ confirms he is as Gwen guesses it was Belle who tried to murder him.

Belle questions if Marlena thinks it’s legit that EJ remembers a woman shooting him. Marlena confirms that she does. Belle asks if Marlena has some idea of who EJ’s mind is trying to protect. Belle guesses that Marlena knows who shot EJ.

Xander questions Sarah, who says she heard it straight from Gwen as she couldn’t wait to gloat and throw it in her face. Xander tells her it’s not true. Sarah adds that Gwen said Leo could back up the story and that it wouldn’t be the first time Xander went straight to Gwen’s arms. Xander tells Sarah that it’s not true and swears that he did not sleep with Gwen. Sarah asks if Gwen just made it all up then. Xander says not all of it.

Rachel asks Kristen if she’s nervous about testifying. Kristen admits she may be a little but thinks she’ll be alright because of how brave Rachel was on the stand. Rachel reminds Kristen that all she has to do is tell the truth and jokes that maybe afterwards, her mom will take her to buy clothes too. Rachel adds that she’s so glad EJ finally told Kristen where her mom was because she missed her.

Chanel stops Johnny from calling EJ and says he has to let EJ put her on the stand. Johnny worries that EJ is going to try to make her look guilty. Chanel says that’s been his defense strategy all along and if it helps Johnny’s case, that’s fine by her because she loves him. Johnny tells Chanel that he loves her, so he still wants to talk to EJ to make sure he drives the bus by her and not over her. Chanel decides that’s a good enough compromise. Johnny realizes lunch is about over so he needs to get back to court and he will see there in a couple of hours. Chanel says after she’s done being a witness, she can finally start going with him to court. Johnny tells her that she doesn’t have to do that but Chanel insists on being by her husband’s side every step of the way until this nightmare is over.

Gwen questions EJ as to why Belle would want him dead when they were having a torrid love affair. EJ explains that before he was shot, Belle hated that she had feelings for him and was tormented by their affair, so maybe she thought it was the only way to get him out of her system. Gwen calls it pretty extreme. EJ brings up that Sami once shot him right in the head which Gwen calls barbaric. Gwen questions if he thinks Belle is now following in her footsteps. EJ jokes that they are very competitive with each other. Gwen questions if Belle would actually let her nephew take the fall for a crime she committed. EJ says maybe she’s counting on Johnny being innocent and getting off. Gwen calls that a plausible theory but questions how EJ will prove it.

Belle reminds Marlena that EJ told her that he was waiving doctor-patient confidentiality, so she tells her to just say it if she knows who shot him. Marlena admits she has an idea but she doesn’t have any proof. Belle wants to know who she suspects and says they will find proof together. Marlena brings up Belle being so involved in the case that she thinks it’s best if she doesn’t say anything.

Kristen wonders where Brady is since he’s supposed to be back from his meeting by now. Kristen then gets a text from Brady that he has a flat tire and he’s running late which means Rachel has to come back with her to court. Rachel shouts that she doesn’t want to go.

Paulina meets Chanel in the town square and says she hurried through her meeting because she was not going to let Chanel go face EJ in court by herself.

Johnny joins EJ in court. EJ knows it was a rough morning but says he’s ready to mount a vigorous defense on his behalf and he’s confident they are going to win. Johnny wishes he was that confident. EJ reminds him that he just needs to provide enough reasonable doubt for the jury to acquit him. EJ says they’ve already provided plenty of other suspects and have more coming. Johnny wants to talk to EJ about Chanel first. EJ says they will but first he has to go over Marlena’s testimony since she was a last minute addition and he has to prepared to question her because she could be the key to him winning his case.

Belle and Marlena go to court. Belle says she will come get her when it’s time to testify. Belle stops to apologize for having to attack her credibility on the stand. Marlena knows the pressure she’s under and assures she will be there for her. Belle calls that one of the few things she’s never doubted as she heads in to the court room.

Xander explains to Sarah it was the 4th of July after they just had a huge fight at the Bistro, so he decided to stay and drown his sorrows when Gwen showed up. Xander admits he brought her back to the Salem Inn and they kissed, he went up to her room, but in the end he couldn’t go through with it. Xander says he and Sarah aren’t together but were still legally married and he could never cheat on her. Sarah mocks him being honorable but points out that he did kiss Gwen which means he did cheat. Sarah declares that what makes it truly disgusting is that it was with Gwen, who did truly horrible things to them. Sarah guarantees the only reason Xander didn’t sleep with her was because he knew he was too drunk. Xander thought she would be relieved. Sarah tells him he was wrong. Sarah orders him to just go get Victoria and leave, so Xander exits.

Xander takes Victoria and walks through the town square where he runs in to Gwen. Xander tells Gwen that if he didn’t have Victoria, he would have a few choice words for her for lying to Sarah about what happened between them. Xander questions what is wrong with her.

Kristen leaves the Pub with Rachel as Rachel continues telling her that she can’t go back to court but Kristen says they have no choice. They run in to Sarah, so Rachel asks if she can stay with her.

Chanel tells Paulina that she doesn’t have to go to court with her. Paulina insists since she knows what it’s like to be under fire from EJ and she wants to be there to protect her. Chanel assures that she’s fine with it if it helps Johnny’s case. Paulina declares that she won’t let Chanel be made to look guilty and that she wants Johnny to go free but she’s not going to let Chanel end up behind bars.

EJ interrogates Marlena on the stand about hypnosis. EJ points out to the jury that he is waiving doctor-patient confidentiality and is giving Marlena freedom to discuss his hypnosis. Marlena confirms EJ remembered asking “her” to put down the gun, remembering that the shooter was a woman. EJ points out that Johnny is not a woman, so the only logical conclusion is that he is completely innocent.

Gwen guesses Sarah told Xander. Xander complains that Sarah told him that Gwen said they had sex. Gwen admits she may have exaggerated. Xander argues that she lied and questions why she would do that. Gwen explains that she thought she was helping by thinking that making Sarah jealous would help her remember how much she loves him. Xander argues that she was just trying to cause trouble. Xander tells Gwen to stay the hell away from him and Sarah from now on. Xander warns that if she ever pulls another stunt like that, he will make sure she regrets it.

Kristen tells Sarah about Brady getting a flat tire and she has to get to court which is why they have to go now. Rachel says now she can stay with Sarah. Kristen says they don’t want to impose but Sarah says she’d love to catch up with Rachel. Kristen agrees to let Rachel stay with Sarah and notes that Brady should be back pretty soon.

Chanel tells Paulina that she’s not going to end up in prison. Paulina argues that they know EJ has the video of her threatening him. Chanel says that only proves that she was at the DiMera Mansion and they had a heated exchange. Paulina points out that she threatened his life. Chanel argues that the police don’t seem to think that’s enough so if it helps Johnny’s case, she’s all for it. Paulina worries about her reputation as a business owner. Chanel says she’s aware of the risk, especially now that EJ has remembered the shooter was a woman while under hypnosis. Paulina questions this not coming out before and Chanel just now telling her. Chanel says she just found out herself. Paulina calls that big news that should be enough in the trial. Chanel guesses EJ wants to prove many people could have shot him, so if he wants to point the finger at her, so be it.

Belle asks Marlena if she is aware of any cases where memories from hypnosis proven to be false. Marlena confirms that she is. Belle brings up the defendant being Marlena’s grandson, who she would like to be proven innocent. Belle asks Marlena if the conscious mind can override the subconscious even under hypnosis which Marlena admits. Belle declares that means even under hypnosis, EJ could be lying. EJ takes over and asks if Marlena believes his memory is legitimate and genuine. Marlena confirms that she does, so EJ says no further questions.

Gwen complains that she tried to do something nice for a friend and this is the thanks she gets. Xander argues that what she did was wicked and they aren’t friends. Gwen thought he was just in a bad mood because of he and Sarah separating. Xander asks if she did this because he blew her off at dinner. Gwen tells Xander that she wants him and the rest of the town to leave her alone. Gwen declares that from now on, she will stay the hell away from him and Sarah. Gwen tells Xander to have a nice life and storms off.

Rachel and Sarah have dessert at the Pub. Rachel wishes Victoria was with them and asks where she is now. Sarah responds that she’s with her dad right now. Rachel asks Sarah if she and Xander are getting divorced. Sarah says she’s not sure yet. Rachel feels bad for Victoria because she knows what it’s like when your parents don’t get along. Sarah explains that she and Xander are committed to doing what is best for Victoria, just like Rachel’s parents. Rachel still wishes they all lived together as a family.

Kristen takes the witness stand in court as EJ asks about her being in the DiMera Mansion on the night of his shooting and brings up the conversation they had earlier that night. EJ states that Kristen threatened him. Kristen says she wouldn’t call it a threat but admits she was desperate for him to tell her where her mother was. The judge orders Kristen to answer the questions without adding unnecessary details. EJ brings up Kristen being the first suspect that the police held for questioning because they found a gun in her purse. EJ reminds the jury that Marlena testified he remembered the shooter was a woman. Belle then takes over and brings up the police not pressing charges against Kristen because the bullet didn’t match her gun.

Chanel tells Paulina that they should head over to the courthouse. Paulina knows Chanel will do whatever it takes to help Johnny, but warns her to keep her guard up and not trust EJ. Chanel assures that she doesn’t, but Johnny did say he would make sure EJ doesn’t throw her under the bus so she thinks she will be just fine.

EJ exits the courthouse. Kristen follows him out and tells him that she is happy for him since if it was a woman, it wasn’t Johnny and that has to be a relief. Kristen questions if EJ honestly thinks it was her. EJ responds that he doesn’t know and that he believes Marlena has a suspect in mind but she is being tight lipped about it. Kristen wonders who she would be protecting and says it certainly wouldn’t be her. EJ asks why not since she is Rachel’s mother. Kristen argues that Chanel is Johnny’s wife and Gabi is Arianna’s mother, so the shooter could be anyone. EJ agrees that it could be anyone as Belle comes out from the courtroom.

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Days Opinions For The Week Of August 11, 2025

Opinion Article

 

by Michele & Cheryl

Is anyone else tired of Belle complaining about EJ only to take him back in the end? We are so sick of listening to Belle go on about how she’s done with EJ only to be with him again. She talked to Marlena about her disgust at EJ for trying to get her taken off Johnny’s case. Belle didn’t want to be on the case so why did she get so mad about it? EJ also wanted her on the case so it didn’t make sense that he wanted the judge to take her off it. We are tired of watching her be indecisive when it concerns him. She needed a fall from grace when he proved he wasn’t her Prince Charming. Belle should have thought twice before getting together with Sami’s ex-husband.

Sarah proved that she could be a b*tch when she wants to be. She used Brady and kissed him to make Xander jealous. Sarah had a lot of nerve getting upset that he was with Gwen when she wanted to take Victoria from him. Xander wanted to have a joint custody arrangement, but Sarah wasn’t having it. Fast forward, and she’s jealous when she thought he had sex with Gwen. Sarah slapped Xander because she thought he didn’t hesitate to jump into bed with Gwen. She claimed she was finished with Xander so it shouldn’t matter to her that he was with her. Abuse isn’t okay just because a female hits a man. We are here for drama, but their heated exchanges aren’t exactly must-see-TV. Their exchanges are more like fast forward material.

Most of the week was focused on two stories. One story is Johnny’s trial. The other story is Tate wanting to see his daughter, and Sophia scrambling to keep him from finding out about their baby. We’ll start with Johnny’s trial. It’s been a long time since we’ve seen a trial. That is the type of story that usually holds our interest. We give the writers a thumbs up for making the story an umbrella storyline. A lot of characters are involved in the trial storyline. There are a couple of characters serving on the jury which was a nice touch. EJ and Belle were ruthless during the trial. They got the people on the stand to admit to things that they didn’t want to come out. We enjoyed watching the courtroom scenes. EJ and Belle weren’t afraid to be ruthless towards each other and their witnesses. He showed that he’s a true DiMera. Let’s take it back a step. Under hypnosis, EJ realized that his shooter was a female. He wanted to figure out who the person was that shot to get Johnny off the hook. EJ and Gwen tried to deduce who the shooter was. There are quite a few women who could have shot him. Belle, Kristen, Chanel, and Sami’s names were tossed around. EJ and Gwen felt like Marlena knew who the shooter was and wanted to protect her. Knowing that information, narrowed down the suspect list. Johnny and Chanel were concerned that the new information would make her look more guilty. Chanel was willing to get punished to keep Johnny from going to prison. Johnny wanted to protect her so he went to his father to ask him not to throw Chanel under the bus to get him out of prison. EJ didn’t listen to him. He played the video of her threatening him. Johnny was livid that he did that to his wife when he promised he wouldn’t. He did the only thing he thought he could do in the situation. Johnny fired EJ. EJ was upset that he fired him. We like how the case brought the mystery back in the storyline. It seemed like the writers forgot about the shooting once Johnny and Chanel got back together. We are curious to find out who the person was that shot Johnny and allowed him to go to trial without saying anything. Hopefully the writers will surprise us and not make the shooter be Rita.

As we said, the other storyline that was heavily focused on was Sophia’s storyline. Sophia got Melinda’s help to write a letter to keep Tate away from the baby. Tate became obsessed with reaching out to the adoptive parents. He didn’t want to be a father to the child and now that Sophia’s given birth, he suddenly wanted to see the baby. Tate could have agreed to raise the child and didn’t have to walk away from the baby. It’s obvious that Tate’s suddenly concerned because Sophia had to look like the bad guy in the storyline. Tate didn’t want the baby either, or they could have raised their baby together. It’s a different type of storyline for the show. The baby storyline gives the audience a chance to see the teens in a storyline that would include the adults. We don’t think we could stomach the storyline if it just featured the teens.

Why do the writers insist on trying to shove Cat and Chad down our throats. We never seen such a blatant attempt to make the audience like a character. Cat is very boring, and there aren’t enough rewrites possible to make her interesting. She kissed Chad, and he chose not to tell her about it. It was supposed to be a sexy moment where we see the chemistry between them. It didn’t work because there was nothing sexy about them. They don’t have any chemistry with each other. Their scenes make us want to grab the remote and fast forward their scenes.

 

 

The opinions in these articles are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of TVMEG.COM or its other volunteers.

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Days Best Lines For The Week Of August 11, 2025

Days of Our Lives Best Lines

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Best Lines by Michele and Cheryl

(about Xander)
Sarah: Well, your boxing skills looked sharp. Been training?
Brady: That man’s a menace, and he’s lucky that Gabi got him out of here when she did.

Gwen: Can I ask what that poor little table did to you?
EJ: Oh, I’m sure I’d find that very clever if my hand wasn’t throbbing.

Gwen: You DiMeras, got every medication under the sun in the mausoleum, including some very strange medical bag labeled “property of Dr. Rolf,” which I don’t even want to ask about. But yet I can’t seem to find a single bottle of ibuprofen anywhere.
EJ: Father taught us to embrace the pain. Plus, were usually the ones creating the headaches.

Gwen: You know I’ve gone through a whole bottle of ibuprofen myself ever since coming here to Salem.
EJ: You don’t say.
Gwen: Turns out, being universally hated is really trying on the nerves.

Marlena: You know, I wouldn’t lift a finger to help EJ after what he did to you in court. But, well, if it means helping my grandson, I might need to consider it.
Belle: Well, I mean maybe after you get EJ to remember who shot him, you could hypnotize him into walking into traffic.
Marlena: Darn, I don’t have that kind of power.

Gabi: Good news. They let me back in the door long enough just to pay the bill.
Xander: Huzzah!
Gabi: But they made it very nice and clear that you and I are not welcome at the Bistro anytime soon.
Xander: Oh, no. How will we go on without overcooked beef and overpriced wine?

Leo: I hate thar I can’t talk to you about Johnny’s trial. I thought that jury duty was going to be a total snooze fest. But I have to say, I’m finding it riveting.
Javi: I mean, I’m glad you find it entertaining.
Leo: I was never really into true crime. I always found it to be a little too murder-y. But now I totally get it. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if they ended up making a movie out of this— “The People versus John Roman DiMera.” I wonder who they would get to play me. Maybe that delicious Jonathan Bailey.
Javi: Well, you think he’d be willing to play juror number nine?
Leo: See, that’s the problem. I shouldn’t be juror number nine. Just some anonymous, yet exquisitely moisturized face in the crowd. I should be covering this trial as “The Spectator’s star reporter. I swear, if the bozo they got to cover my beat ends up with a Pulitzer–
Javi: Or worse—what if Jonathan Bailey plays him in the movie?
Leo: You better shut your mouth.

 

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Days Short Recap Friday, August 15, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Arianna talked to Javi about wanting to go to Salem U instead of Arizona U. She loved her fathers. They are the best fathers in the world. She knew Javi would have been a good father too. Arianna apologized for overstepping. Javi thought it was fine. He admitted that he thought about her all the time. Leo doesn’t know about his secret because it was hard to explain. Arianna promised not to say anything. Tate told Sophia that the adoptive parents his request to see the baby. She knew he wanted to meet her, but she thought it was for the best. Tate didn’t agree with that at all. He refused to give up meeting their baby. Tate wanted to call Sophia’s lawyer so he could meet their daughter. Sophia panicked and tried to talk him out of it. Arianna was pushing Tesoro in his stroller while they were outside Sophia became uncomfortable when she saw the stroller. Arianna was going to leave, but Sophia wanted to see the baby again. Tate wondered what she meant by “again.” Sophia told him that she ran into Javi. Tate told her that he ran into the baby too when he saw Leo. He got a chance to hold the baby. Sophia became overwhelmed and started crying. Tate apologized to Sophia for being a jerk while she was trying to be strong. He promised to stop obsessing over seeing the baby.

Johnny told EJ that he didn’t want him to drag Chanel through the mud when she got on the stand. EJ agreed not to throw her under the bus. Paulina was happy about Belle’s defense, but she was worried that EJ would play the video of Chanel threatening him. Belle assured her that it wasn’t enough to charge her with if Johnny got acquitted. Chanel got on the stand and defended Johnny. EJ decided to become ruthless. He got her to admit that she blamed him for Johnny changing his mind about adopting. EJ played the video of Chanel threatening him. She denied the threat happened, but he cut her off. He didn’t have any more questions for her. The judge told Belle that she would be able to question Chanel the next day. Chanel, Johnny and Paulina were at the town square. Johnny ignored EJ’s call. He apologized to Chanel about what happened in court. She told him that what happened in the video wasn’t true. Belle arrived and saw them together. Johnny told her that the video was probably a deep fake. He wanted to send the video to an authority in AI. If he’s right, EJ might be behind the video. Later Johnny went to the DiMera mansion to let him know that he was fired.

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BTG Short Recap Friday, August 15, 2025

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

At the hospital, Ashley got a shock when Derek was wheeled into the emergency room. He was in a biking accident. When Madison asked where his pain was, he said he couldn’t feel his legs. Ashley admitted that she loved Derek when he was going to surgery. She said she tried to move on but it didn’t work. Later on, Madison told Ashley that the surgery went well, but Derek may never walk again. Despite Leslie interrupting her, Peaches told her that her mother was a talented young singer whose life was cut short. She told Leslie that her mother never talked about the father. Peaches said her mother didn’t want children so she chose to raise her. She assured Leslie that her mother loved her but knew giving her up was for the best. While Peaches was talking about Leslie’s mother, she said her mother committed suicide. Peaches ended up telling Leslie that Barbara was her mother and that she was entitled to an inheritance.

Nicole had a divorce party with Dani and Vanessa. Ted and Andre talked about their problems. Andre wondered what he did wrong with Ashley. Ted said he missed Nicole. Andre told Ted to fight for the woman he loved. Ted thought he might have had a chance. Sharon and Tracy asked Anita if she wanted to go on tour with them, but Anita turned them down. Anita said she was glad they were able to deal with the pain of the past and move on to a better future. After they left, Anita told Vernon that she should have reached out to Barbara’s family so someone from her family could have represented her.

 

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Days Short Recap Thursday, August 14, 2025

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Xander arrived at the Kiriakis mansion to get Victoria. Sarah confronted him about his therapy sessions with Marlena. He was hungover, and she wasn’t happy about it. Sarah slapped his face when he wanted to get some coffee. She wanted him to know what it was like to get hit. Sarah also slapped him for breaking his marriage vows with Gwen. Xander admitted that he went to Gwen’s room, but he didn’t sleep with her. He said that he would never cheat on her. Sarah reminded him that he cheated when he kissed Gwen, and she did horrible things to her. She yelled at him to get Victoria and leave. Johnny told Chanel that EJ’s hypnosis session indicated that a female shot him. Chanel was scared that EJ would blame her for shooting him during the trial. She was okay with EJ throwing her under the bus if Johnny’s name was cleared. Chanel loved him and would be by his side after she was done testifying. EJ flashed back to asking Marlena if Sami shot him. Gwen interrupted his flashback. She poured them drinks while he caught her up about the trial. He didn’t know who shot him, but he thought Marlena knew who did. They put their heads together and tried to figure out who shot him. EJ and Gwen thought the shooter was someone he and Marlena would protect. While they were talking, Gwen realized that Belle is someone they would protect. She dismissed her theory, but EJ thought Belle had her reasons. Marlena admitted to Belle that she had an idea who shot EJ, but she didn’t have any proof. She didn’t want to say any more since Belle was involved in the case

Johnny tried to talk to his father about Chanel, but EJ was preparing for Marlena’s testimony. Belle apologized to Marlena for attacking her credibility on the stand. Marlena assured her that she’s there for her no matter what. Belle never doubted that she would be there for her. Marlena took the stand and testified that EJ remembered being shot by a woman. The jury reacted to Marlena’s statement. EJ told the jury that Johnny was innocent. Belle cross-examined her mother. She got her mother to admit that EJ could have lied under hypnosis. EJ redirected and asked Marlena if she thought his memory was legitimate. Paulina met with Chanel at Sweet Bits because she wanted to support her in court. Chanel thought she would be fine and understood EJ’s plan. Paulina didn’t understand it. She refused to let EJ put her in jail to protect his son. Chanel was confident that EJ would prove more people had motives to shoot him. She was okay if EJ pointed the finger at her. Chanel told her that Johnny was going to talk to his father about throwing her under the bus so she thought she would be fine. Xander ran into Gwen and yelled at her for lying to Sarah about them sleeping together. Gwen dismissed what she did by saying she was trying to make Sarah jealous. He said that her lie made things worse. Xander warned her that she would regret it if she did anything like that again. Kristen took the stand at court. EJ got Kristen to admit that she threatened him because her what happened to her mother. He wanted her to talk about the cops finding a gun in her place. Belle cross-examined her and got Kristen to testify that the bullet that shot EJ didn’t match her gun. Later Kristen found EJ in the corridor and asked if he thought she shot him. He wasn’t sure if she did, but he believed that Marlena knew who did it. Kristen knew that Marlena wouldn’t keep quiet to protect her. They talked about the different women Marlena would be willing to protect. EJ agreed that it could be anyone and looked at Belle in the hallway.

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BTG Short Recap Thursday, August 14, 2025

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

Eva was shocked to find out that Leslie was in debt for $10,000. Leslie wanted Eva to get the money from Ted. When Eva left, she got a surprise when a woman named Peaches showed up claiming she was the only mother Leslie knew. While they were talking, it was revealed that Leslie stole a man from Peaches. Peaches said she wasn’t there to remind her of what she did. She said she was trying to get in touch with Leslie because she’s dying and thought it was time for her to know who her real mother was. Kat met up with Chelsea to talk about her sex life with Tomas. She told Chelsea that she wasn’t gay or asexual, but questioned if she waited too long to have sex. Ted was upset when he saw Nicole having dinner with Carlton. When Ted was about to go to their table, Anita interrupted. Anita and Vernon let Ted know that he hasn’t spent much time saving his marriage as he has been building a relationship with the child that ruined it. Ted wanted to talk to Nicole. When Carlton left, Ted confronted Nicole about moving on with his co-worker. Anita and Vernon showed up and made Ted leave.

June told Naomi that the reunion with her children was going to be a disaster. She told Naomi that her dreams didn’t come true. June said she would rather disappoint the children by not meeting them than see how they would react to her. She said she remembered the good times as well as the night everything went wrong and decided they were better off without her. After Naomi fixed her up, June liked what she saw. Smitty and Martin were afraid they would lose the kids. Martin told a shocked Smitty that he was in therapy. He told Smitty that he wanted to be a better man than the one he married. Later on, Naomi and June showed up. Tyrell and Samantha expressed their anger towards June. She told them that she gave them up so they could have a better life. June asked if there might be room in the picture for her. Smitty and Martin told her they needed to talk in private about it. Tyrell didn’t want June in their lives while Samantha thought their mother wanted to be in their lives. Martin told Smitty that he should move back in for the sake of the children. Before Smitty could say anything, Tyrell and Samantha came in and said they had a decision about June.

 

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Days Update Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Sophia walks through the town square and hides off to the side as Tate and Holly come through after finishing biking together. Tate and Holly joke together about racing while biking and Holly always winning. Holly praises Tate as an amazing boyfriend and kisses him as they walk off together while Sophia sadly watches on.

Chad wakes up on Cat’s couch and says he can’t believe how late he slept. Cat says she and Felicity are feeling much better thanks to him.

Rafe gets Cat’s text that she won’t be able to meet as she is sick. Javi comes home with Tesoro and comments on Rafe cooking chicken tortilla soup. Rafe tells him that it’s for a friend who is under the weather but promises to save him a small bowl. Javi then gets a text from Leo, revealing the jury has been sequestered and he doesn’t know when he will be able to come home.

Marlena and Belle exit the courtroom. Marlena asks how Belle is feeling after resting her case. Belle says she’s okay but EJ still has to present his, so she guesses they should be prepared for more surprises. Belle asks how her second hypnosis session went. Marlena reminds her that she can’t talk about that but EJ comes out from the court and tells her to feel free to talk to anyone about it because he’s waiving doctor-patient confidentiality. Marlena responds that he doesn’t have to do that, but EJ says he does as he reveals she’s been served and hands her a piece of paper. Marlena questions EJ wanting her to testify about what he said under hypnosis. Belle asks if there was a breakthrough and if EJ remembered who shot him. EJ responds that he did not, but he remembered who didn’t.

Cat bets Chad didn’t expect this when he offered to pick up Felicity’s prescription and jokes that they’ve become a sick bed and breakfast. They joke about when they got stuck in the elevator. Chad says at least they were in good company and guess fate brought them together.

Rafe tells Javi that he’s sorry about Leo. Javi jokes about Leo sending him a three page list of things he wants him to pack up and bring to him at the Salem Inn. Arianna comes out from her room and mentions being on her way out to meet with Sophia as she’s been really down lately since giving her baby away. Javi recognizes Sophia’s name and questions her giving her baby away. Arianna says it was right after it was born actually and asks if Javi knows her. Javi looks puzzled and looks down at Tesoro.

Tate goes home with Holly and they talk about how great it is to be together. Tate wishes they didn’t waste time apart while Holly says all that matters is they are together now as they kiss. Holly feels like she should freshen up and asks if she can use the shower. Tate assures that she can in the guest room and mentions that his whole family is at the trial so they have the place to themselves. Tate and Holly go take their showers and rejoin each other afterwards in just their towels. Tate tells Holly how beautiful she looks and how he waited so long for them to be together again, so now he can’t believe she’s really here. Holly says she can hardly believe it either but they can prove it to themselves as they begin kissing. They drop their towels and move on to the bed.

Chad talks to Cat about making cereal. Cat realizes she doesn’t remember when she last ate. Chad points out that she had a few crackers last night. Cat says she doesn’t remember much of last night as she was so delirious, but she does remember asking Chad if she kissed him. Chad flashes back to Cat kissing him, but tells Cat that it was just a crazy dream.

Javi tells Arianna about running in to Sophia with Leo and then seeing her again with her mother, who didn’t seem too thrilled about Tesoro having more than one foster dad but she kept her comments to herself. Arianna then exits. Rafe asks Javi if everything is okay since he’s gazing at Tesoro more intently than usual and asks what’s on his mind.

EJ informs Belle that after Marlena brought him out of hypnosis, he remembered referring to the shooter as “her” which means it couldn’t be Johnny or any other man. Marlena confirms she believes EJ. Belle questions why EJ can’t remember which woman. EJ says according to Marlena, he’s still blocked. Belle asks what Marlena is thinking.

Cat tells Chad that she’s sorry if she sounds like she’s protesting too much by saying her crazy dreams don’t mean anything. Cat feels like Chad has become such a good friend, so she thought that’s what he wanted to hear. Chad asks what if he doesn’t know what he wants to hear. Chad then tells her to forget he said anything and comments on feeling hot which causes Cat to worry that he’s getting sick too.

Javi tells Rafe that it’s probably nothing but Amy was talking about how much Tesoro looks like one of her kids and it made him realize that Tesoro might be Asian. Rafe doesn’t see why that matters. Javi adds that he didn’t know until now that Sophia gave her baby away, so if he didn’t know that she was pregnant when Tesoro was born, he would begin to think Tesoro was Sophia’s.

Arianna meets Sophia in the town square and talks about going shopping for a shoe sale. Arianna wants to go to Sweet Bits Bakery first. Sophia declines, saying she already had breakfast there and claims she’s still trying to lose the pregnancy weight. Arianna encourages that she looks amazing. Sophia says she doesn’t feel great. Arianna encourages her to give it time and she’ll be back to her old self and her old life, just like she wanted. Sophia thanks her but isn’t sure that’s going to happen as it seems like nothing is turning out like she thought it would.

Tate and Holly continue kissing in bed.

Marlena says it’s nothing and she’s just curious why EJ can’t quite remember who the shooter was. She understands it was traumatic and that EJ was wounded, but perhaps the person was somebody he knows well or somebody he was significantly involved with. Belle asks if she thinks EJ is subconsciously protecting someone. Marlena confirms it’s a possibility but questions the subpoena since the testimony of statement given under hypnosis are rarely accepted in the court of law. EJ responds that he’s trying to save his son from a conviction and he will do anything to make sure that happens. Belle complains that she’ll have to try to impeach her own mother’s testimony. Belle declares that no matter what happens, she does hope the new information exonerates Johnny. EJ is quite certain it will if Belle’s cross examination doesn’t ruin it. Belle decides she needs a break and is going to get something to eat. Belle offers Marlena a ride but she says she has an errand to run and will meet her there. Belle then exits while Marlena stops EJ and says she has something she’d like to say to him.

Cat takes Chad’s temperature and sees it’s 100.2. Cat says she’s so sorry that she got him sick. Chad says he’ll just stay at the Salem Inn for a few days but Cat says she won’t have him holed up in a hotel. Chad jokes about being a big fan of the room service. Cat declares that Chad is staying right here and she is going to take care of him, just like he took care of her.

Rafe questions Javi thinking Sophia might be Tesoro’s mom. Javi says that the timeline doesn’t add up but knowing that Sophia had to give up her child makes him feel bad for how she must have felt this morning. Rafe relates to when he had to give up David, but says that’s nothing compared to what Javi had to go through. Javi says that feels like a lifetime ago but admits it never goes away.

Tate and Holly lay in bed after having sex and talk about how much they missed each other. Tate assures he’s not going anywhere as they kiss.

Arianna questions Sophia saying nothing is working out and asks if she’s talking about Tate. Sophia asks how she guessed. Arianna knows Sophia was hoping they would end up together after the baby was born, but she thinks Tate and Holly are officially back together. Arianna explains that when she and Holly were trapped in the warehouse, they were so scared and Tate found them, so he was basically like Holly’s hero. Arianna thinks the experience bonded them even more. Sophia questions Holly and Tate having this life changing experience while she was in Chicago in labor with his baby. Arianna says she can’t imagine what she must have been going through as it must have been terrifying. Sophia states that it was really scary. Sophia states that when she was in Chicago, she didn’t even know Arianna and Holly had been kidnapped and were in danger. Arianna tells her not to worry about that as they are fine now. Arianna points out that Sophia had to give up her baby and she can’t imagine how painful that must have been. Arianna says she thinks about what Sophia must have gone through every time she looks at Tesoro. Arianna talks about Tesoro being in good hands and being loved a lot. Sophia is surprised to learn Javi is Arianna’s cousin. Arianna remembers Javi saying he ran in to her, so she met Tesoro, and calls him the cutest thing.

Chad calls Julie and tells her that he’s going to stay at Cat’s a little while longer. Chad promises to come home when his fever goes down and to call the kids when they get home from camp. Chad thanks Julie for everything she always does for the kids and hangs up. Cat guesses Julie wasn’t too happy about him staying here. Chad says she probably would rather catch his sickness but she wasn’t that mad. Cat is sorry but Chad tells her to stop apologizing as it was his choice to stay. Cat decides she will make up Aaron’s room for him so he can rest better there than on the couch. As Cat goes to the back room, Rafe then knocks on the door.

Belle goes home and finds a package for Tate at the door. She goes to deliver it to him, but ends up walking in on Tate in bed with Holly.

Marlena wanted to thank EJ for how gently he handled cross-examining Rachel. EJ questions if she thought he would attack his own niece. Marlena thinks he would do anything to help Johnny. EJ says that is true, but Johnny already admitted to confronting him with a gun which was all Rachel could attest to. EJ appreciates that despite what Marlena may think of him, she’s willing to be his hypnotherapist and he’s very glad they are slowly getting closer to the truth. EJ asks when they can have another session but Marlena says they can’t.

Chad answers the door to find Rafe left his bowl of soup for Cat with a note that says “Get well soon from James”

Sophia agrees with Arianna that Tesoro is adorable. Arianna suggests they can just hit up the shoe sale if Sophia wants to skip food. Sophia suggests returning a dress she bought since she won’t be going on any dates anytime soon. Arianna argues that with Tate off the market, they will be going to college soon and plenty of parties with hot guys. Arianna convinces Sophia to try on the dress for her later. Arianna points out that Sophia still looks sad. Sophia guesses she’s kind of bummed about college as she’s going to Salem U which is a great school but she always hoped to end up at the University of Chicago but that’s just another thing that didn’t work out. Arianna informs Sophia that she doesn’t want to go back to Arizona for college and she wants to stay here. Arianna reveals that she sent an application to Salem U as well as she thought she would come home for school and she got in. Arianna adds that she still enrolled in Arizona but if she stays here, they could go to school together again. Sophia is excited by the idea as they hug. Arianna suggests they head to Salem U to see if the acceptance is still good, so they happily walk off together.

Tate gets dressed and joins Belle in the living room. Belle says he doesn’t need to explain and hopes he was careful. Tate assures that he was. Belle says she won’t tell Marlena or Brady about this but advises him not to do that here. Tate thanks her for being discreet. Belle is sure he’s humiliated enough without getting the whole family involved. Belle decides she’s going to get some food in the kitchen. Holly then joins Tate, who tells her not to worry as Belle was mostly chill about it. Holly can’t believe she walked in on them like that. Tate says that Belle agreed not to tell anyone but did say they should probably find another location for next time. Holly jokes that as traumatizing as that was, she’s looking forward to next time. Holly kisses Tate and then exits.

Cat and Chad eat Rafe’s chicken tortilla soup. Chad mentions that his friend Gabi makes a soup exactly like this and tells Cat to thank whoever this James guy is. Chad questions how “James” knew she was sick. Cat explains that she had to cancel plans with him and claims that he’s an ex that’s trying to win her back. Cat says they went out a few times recently and were just going to see where it leads. Chad tells her that he hopes it works out.

Rafe returns home to Javi eating his chicken tortilla soup. Javi admits Rafe’s version is a tiny improvement on the original. Javi is sure that Rafe’s sick friend appreciated it even more. Rafe says he didn’t get to see her, so he just left it at her door. Javi questions it being a her so Rafe tells him it’s not like that and she’s just someone he works with. Javi jokingly asks if he cooks soup for all the guys at the FBI too. Tesoro wakes up crying so Rafe goes to check on him while Javi gets a call from Leo, using a payphone. Javi doesn’t think he’ll be able to get everything Leo listed in his text, so he will just bring the essentials. Javi tells Leo that he loves him and misses him already.

EJ questions Marlena saying they can’t have another session. Marlena doesn’t think it will be worthwhile. Marlena says her testimony about what he said under hypnosis before should be enough to create reasonable doubt in the mind of the jury. EJ complains that he still doesn’t know who shot him. EJ questions why he gets the feeling that she doesn’t want him to remember and asks if there’s something she’s afraid is going to come out. EJ then asks if Marlena thinks the shooter was Sami. Marlena responds that she doesn’t think it was Sami and then says she has an errand to run, so she exits the courthouse. EJ wonders to himself if it could’ve been Belle.

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GH Short Recap Friday, August 15, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Jordan shows Curtis her new apartment and they celebrate about it right before he goes to dinner with Portia. Curtis and Portia later have a romantic dinner and make love after dinner.

Vaughn pulls Josslyn from the mission because Britt will recognize her when she sees her.

Jason arrives at the Five Poppies Resort and he sees Josslyn there.

Vaughn gets injured when he tries to avoid a hit man stabbing him.

Justine Turner has dinner with Sonny and Donna. Donna tells Sonny she likes Justine.

Drew tells Wiley that his mommy loves him and that his daddy won’t let his mommy see him. Tracy is so disgusted by Drew using Wiley to get what he wants. She tells Drew she is pulling her funding from Measure C.

Stella is questioned about possible insurance fraud.

Drew arrives at Sonny’s place, but he is unaware that Justine is there. Justine is hiding because she doesn’t want Drew to know she is visiting Sonny. Justine hears Drew tell Sonny that he is going to do what he wants or he will have Michael arrested for hitting a public official.

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Days Update Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Sophia sits in the town square, on the phone with Melinda. Sophia says she’s sorry that Melinda had to drive all the way to Chicago to set up a P.O. Box but she figured Tate would send the package right away. Sophia asks if Tate included the letter asking to see the baby which Melinda confirms. Sophia worries about what they are going to do since even if Melinda writes back as the parents, telling him no, she doesn’t think Tate will let this go. Sophia’s mother Amy then appears in the town square, surprising her.

Leo and Javi watch Tesoro at home while Leo complains about not being able to talk to Javi about the trial. Leo says he thought being on the jury would be boring but it’s actually been riveting. Leo talks about never being in to true crime, but now he totally gets it and wouldn’t be surprised if they made a movie out of the trial. Leo complains that he shouldn’t just be on the jury and should be covering the trial for the Spectator.

Kristen meets Brady at the Pub and asks where Rachel is. Brady says she’s in the kitchen with Roman. Kristen asks how she is holding up. Brady says she’s nervous about having to testify. Kristen complains that she’s just a child having to do this. Brady says he hates it too but reminds her they can’t appear freaked out to her and have to stay calm about this. Kristen asks how to stay calm when their little girl is about to take the witness stand. Brady tries to encourage that Belle will be gentle with her but Kristen questions that being how she was with Johnny.

Johnny sits in court and thinks back to Belle interrogating him on the stand.

Belle gets ready for court at home and tells Marlena that she wants to be gone before EJ arrives but then EJ shows up at the door.

Javi shows Leo that a letter addressed to “baby boy” was delivered to the fire station with no return address. Javi opens it up and is shocked to learn it’s from Tesoro’s mom.

Sophia asks Amy what she is doing here. Amy says they must have had the same idea for breakfast and questions who she was on the phone with since she heard her say something about Tate not letting go. Sophia claims that she was talking to Arianna about Tate having a hard time not meeting their baby, but Amy questions if Sophia is telling the truth.

Kristen tells Brady that she heard that Belle went at Johnny pretty hard. Brady assures she won’t do that with Rachel. Kristen asks about EJ. Brady says they’ll just have to hope he’s a decent human being for once. Rachel then comes over and hugs Kristen. Rachel asks if this means they have to leave for court. Brady confirms they do soon. Rachel complains that she doesn’t want to go and worries about Johnny going to prison because of her.

Belle says goodbye to EJ and walks out. EJ tells Marlena that he hoped Belle might be more willing to forgive him after having time to cool off. Marlena question why Belle would ever want to forgive him after what he did to her in court. Marlena is thrilled that Belle has finally ended things with EJ for good and admits she’d like to toss him out right now but they both love Johnny and want to see him acquitted, so she’s still willing to perform another hypnosis session.

Leo asks Javi what the letter says. Javi reads the letter that Sophia wrote, telling her baby that she loves him and wanted him to have the best life possible but letting him go was still the hardest thing she ever did. Leo points out that she still didn’t say why she had to give him up and didn’t leave a name.

Sophia asks Amy why she would lie about talking to Arianna. Amy says ever since she got pregnant, she’s been keeping things from her when they used to be so close and she misses that terribly. Sophia says she does too so Amy suggests they work on rebuilding their relationship. Sophia says she would like that, but she’s not a little girl anymore and she’s had to make some very hard adult decisions, so she’s not sure Amy would understand what she’s been through. Amy asks her to give her a chance by talking to her about what’s on her mind.

Brady tells Rachel that a lot of people are going to be testifying at the trial, not just her, so she’s not responsible for whatever happens. Kristen reminds Rachel to just tell the truth about what she saw that night. Rachel worries that will be bad for Johnny as everyone will think he shot EJ. Kristen points out that the jury will hear from a lot of people and there will be a lot of suspects. Rachel asks if Kristen is one of them.

EJ tells Marlena that he wants her to do whatever it takes to get him past his mental block, no matter how hard she has to push. Marlena hopes he’s able to handle whatever the truth may be. EJ says he’s willing to handle anything if it will save his son.

Belle arrives at court where Johnny says he’d like to talk to her. Belle doesn’t think that’s a good idea. Johnny knows she’s the prosecutor but also his aunt, so he wants to say how sorry he is about having to testify that she and EJ were romantically involved. Belle says she doesn’t blame Johnny and that it’s all on EJ. Johnny points out that Belle broke it off with EJ. Johnny says he hates what EJ did but he also knows how much EJ loves her and asks if Belle can ever forgive him.

Marlena hypnotizes EJ and asks if he can see who is pointing the gun at him but he can’t. Marlena asks if he can tell her how he feels about the person. EJ isn’t sure what she means. Marlena asks if it’s a stranger or a friend, but EJ is not sure. EJ then declares that he just wants “her” to put the gun down, revealing the person holding the gun is a woman. Marlena asks what else he can tell her. EJ says he doesn’t know. Marlena urges him to remember, reminding him that his son’s future depends on it. Marlena tells EJ to keep thinking. EJ complains that he’s really trying and he desperately wants to save his son so he angrily asks why he can’t remember.

Sophia tells Amy that she appreciates the offer but she doesn’t really have much to say. Amy wishes she would talk to someone at least like their pastor or a therapist since it’s obvious that this experience is weighing heavily on her. Sophia argues that she’s fine but Amy disagrees, saying she’s irritable and could have post partum depression. Amy wants to take Sophia back to see Sarah but Sophia says absolutely not.

Javi wonders if Tesoro’s mom saw his picture in the paper. Leo hopes she at least knows he’s being well cared for until he finds a permanent home. Leo thinks they make pretty great foster parents and emphasizes that Javi is like a natural born dad. Leo mentions having to get to court while Javi reminds him they planned a date night and asks if he has any idea where he wants to go to dinner. Leo says no but he knows what he wants for dessert as he kisses him.

Belle tells Johnny that it’s sweet of him to go to bat for his dad but he crossed a line. Johnny says he knows but that he did it for him, so he feels terrible that they broke up because of it. Belle says that they broke up because of who EJ is. Belle says when they got involved, she knew exactly who EJ is and she thought she could look past it but she was wrong. Belle declares that there is no getting over what he did. Johnny says he understands and wishes they could just put this whole trial behind them.

Marlena tells EJ that he did great and decides to bring him out of the hypnosis. Marlena asks if he remembers what they talked about. EJ says he couldn’t get past his mental block but he said “her” which means the shooter was a woman and couldn’t have been Johnny. EJ exclaims that this is huge. Marlena asks if it will hold up in court. EJ says ideally he would remember who the shooter actually was, but this revelation could be enough to eliminate Johnny as a suspect. They agree that it will narrow down the field to just women. EJ points out that there were at least four women at the house that night: Ava, Gabi, Chanel, and Kristen.

Brady reminds Rachel that the police already questioned Kristen and they let her go, so they think she’s innocent. Kristen tells Rachel that she was upstairs with her, watching her sleep when the incident took place. Kristen doesn’t want Rachel to spend another minute worrying about this. Kristen promises her that she did not shoot EJ.

Kristen and Brady bring Rachel to court. Kristen wishes she could go in but tells Rachel she’s not allowed. Brady encourages that he will be there. Kristen takes Rachel to get some water. Belle comes out of the court and asks Brady about Rachel. Brady says she’s nervous. Belle promises to go very easy on her. Brady says he’s worried about EJ. Belle says as much as she despises EJ, she doesn’t think he will do anything to upset her, but if he does, they will shut it down right away. Brady thanks her and asks how she’s holding up. Belle admits she’s never hated her job more than she does today.

Amy questions why Sophia is so opposed to seeing Sarah when she said they could come back anytime. Sophia complains that she’s done with doctors appointments, insists that she doesn’t have a fever and tells her to stop worrying about her because she’s fine. Javi walks up with Tesoro and tells Sophia that it’s good to see her again. Javi comments that it looks like Sophia had her baby which she confirms. Amy introduces herself to Javi and then recognizes Tesoro. Javi asks if she knows him. Amy responds that she and Tesoro have a special bond, giving Sophia a look of worry.

Marlena and EJ enter the courtroom as the judge resumes the trial. The judge says she first wants to address the jury and brings up that they learned of the relationship between EJ and Belle. She instructs the jury to disregard that as all of that testimony should not be considered when deciding the final verdict. She rules that going forward, the jury will be sequestered where they will be provided hotel but their phones will be taken and any contact with family will be supervised until a verdict is reached which upsets Leo.

Kristen encourages Rachel that she will do just great and it will be over before she knows it. Rachel is then called in to court. Kristen hugs her and says she loves her as she sends her inside. Rachel takes the stand as Belle, Brady, and Marlena watch on. Rachel swears to tell the truth as the judge encourages that there’s nothing to be afraid of and she just has to honestly answer the questions the lawyers ask her.

Sophia questions what Amy is talking about, arguing that she couldn’t possibly know the baby. Amy reveals that recently spent a long morning together a few weeks ago when she was reporting for jury duty. Javi guesses she met Leo, who thought bringing the baby to court would get him dismissed. Amy asks how Javi knows Leo. Javi reveals he is his boyfriend, so Amy comments that Tesoro has two foster dads then. Javi points out that he actually has three.

Belle asks Rachel about the night EJ was shot. Rachel says she was upstairs sleeping, but she woke up and went downstairs to get a glass of water. Belle asks what Rachel saw and heard when she went downstairs. Rachel responds that she heard two people arguing and when she looked in to the living room, she saw Johnny pointing a gun at EJ. Belle asks what happened next. Rachel says they kept arguing. Belle asks if she remembers what they said. Rachel responds that Johnny said it’s what you deserve while EJ said he doesn’t want to do this and to put down the gun. Rachel says she then went back upstairs. Belle asks if that’s all she remembers. Rachel admits to hearing a gunshot. Belle asks if she saw anyone else there. Rachel confirms she did not and after the gunshot, she got back in bed and pretended to be asleep. Belle asks how much time passed between seeing Johnny with the gun to hearing the gunshot but Rachel says she doesn’t know. Belle says that’s okay and she just has one more question. Belle asks if Rachel thinks that Johnny shot EJ. EJ objects so Belle withdraws the question and tells Rachel that she was very brave today as she takes her seat.

Amy calls it progressive for Tesoro to have three foster dads. Javi calls it amazing that he has a house full of people who adore him. Sophia suggests Amy put in an order so she can have breakfast with her. Amy agrees and tells Javi it was nice meeting him and that it was so good to see Tesoro again. Amy comments on how much Tesoro looks like Sophia’s brother Cooper when he was a newborn. Sophia then takes Amy to get breakfast.

EJ promises Rachel that this won’t take long as he just has a few questions and then she can go home. EJ brings up Rachel saying she saw Johnny pointing a gun at him and asks if she saw him actually fire the gun. Rachel admits she did not, but she heard the gunshot. EJ adds that she doesn’t know how much time had passed between seeing Johnny and hearing the gunshot. EJ asks if there was enough time for Johnny to leave the house and someone else come in to the house to shoot him. Belle objects to that already being asked and answered. EJ clarifies that he’s not asking Rachel to guess how much time passed, but to recall generally how much time it was, so the judge allows it. EJ goes over how Rachel went upstairs, down the hall, and in to her room. EJ questions again if there was enough time between then and hearing the gunshot for Johnny to leave the house and someone else to come shoot him. Rachel says yes. EJ thanks her and declares that’s all he needed to know. The judge asks if Belle cares to redirect but Belle declines.

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GH Short Recap Thursday, August 14, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Chase and Willow talk. Willow tells Chase about slapping Lucas. Chase tells Willow that he and Brook Lynn have decided not to adopt right now because Brook Lynn wants to wait until Brook Lynn can have a relationship with Gio. Chase tells Wilow that he isn’t sure Brook Lynn will ever have a relationship with Gio. Chase wonders if he and Brook Lynn will ever adopt a child.

Stella tries to persuade Trina to forgive Kai but Trina can’t forgive Kai for betraying her trust and telling Drew about Curtis’s plan to find Jacinda and say that Drew was the one who bought drugs and decided to do them with her.

Sonny and Michael both have separate conversations with Gio trying to persuade him to let go off his anger toward his parents and let Dante and Brook Lynn into his life because they love him. Gio doesn’t change his mind about Dante and Brook Lynn. Dante and Brook Lynn decide to work together to try and break through to Gio and build a relationship with their son.

ADA Justine Turner tells Sonny that she can’t accept the second gift that he sent her anonymously.

Drew tells Kai he needs him to be his eyes and ears in Port Charles when he and Scout move to Washington DC.

Molly tries to persuade Drew not to take Scout to DC, but Drew tells Molly that he thinks it’s best that Scout moves to DC with his daughter. Drew also tells Molly that Scout won’t have any more contact with her grandmother and her aunts again.

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Y&R Short Recap Friday, August 15, 2025

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Recap written by Eva

Adam releases an article on Newman Media telling everyone that Cane Ashby is Aristotle Dumas. Cane tells Lily he will give up his entire plan if she will give him a chance to build a relationship with her again.

Devon and Amanda text Lily and Cane about the Newman Media article.

Mattie calls Lily on the phone and Lily wants to know how Cane wants to handle the situation. Nick interrupts Cane and Lily’s conversation to apologize to Cane about the Newman Media article. Adam and Chelsea interrupt Nick and Sharon at the coffee house just before they kiss.

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