Days Update Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Leo is in the town square with his bag packed, on the phone talking about booking a flight. Leo admits he hadn’t thought about where he’s going. Leo talks about recovering a concussion and acknowledges that maybe he shouldn’t be flying, but his dear friend is in deep trouble. They tell Leo to call back when he’s got his head on straight. Leo asks what if that never happens as they hang up on him.

At the DiMera Mansion, EJ calls Johnny and tells him that it appears the Titan loan buyout is working exactly as planned. Johnny guesses that serves them right. EJ says that’s spoken like a true DiMera. Johnny thanks him for the update and says they’ll talk later as he hangs up. Chanel calls Johnny over, worrying that Trey feels warm and could be sick. Johnny takes Trey away and reminds Chanel that she had chemo this morning, so the last thing she needs to be around is a sick baby while her immune system is compromised. Chanel says it’s fine and argues that she’s not just a cancer patient, but a mom too. Johnny encourages Chanel to focus on staying healthy and says they have a village of people willing to help them, so he thinks it’s time to call in reinforcements. Johnny then calls Leo and asks if he’s free to babysit Trey since he’s come down with a cold and Chanel can’t get sick right now. Leo says normally he’d say yes in a heartbeat but he has something important to take care of. Leo recommends his friend Denise but Johnny says it’s okay and not to worry about it as he’s sure they will find someone. Leo asks Johnny to tell Trey that he says hi and he hopes he feels better and that he loves him very much, which Johnny agrees to do as they hang up.

Lexie is at home on the phone with Kristen, confirming she is wearing the geolocator now and when the time comes, she will drop everything. Lexie then hangs up as Theo enters and questions what’s going on and what she means by dropping everything when the time comes.

EJ is surprised at home by his mother Susan Banks, who says she’s here on a mission to stop him from making a baker’s dozen of mistakes.

Johnny tells Chanel that Paulina is in a meeting, Lani is holding it down at the Bakery, and he left a message for Javi. Johnny says if all else fails, he can take Trey to the office with him. Chanel argues that he can’t take their sick baby to work while Johnny argues that he can’t stay there with her. Javi then shows up at their door and says he’s sorry he missed the call as he just finished his shift, but he’d be more than happy to watch Trey if they still need a babysitter.

Rafe is on the phone with Cat at home, saying that’s not good news for Gwen but it does give them something to jump off and a reason to question EJ which he will enjoy doing personally. Rafe hangs up and goes to leave, right as Leo arrives. Rafe tells Leo that Javi isn’t home and he has something urgent to attend to. Leo asks if it’s more urgent than life and death, so Rafe asks what it is. Leo informs Rafe that he believes Gwen was kidnapped by EJ and asks him to show concern for his friend. Rafe responds that he didn’t realize they were still friends after Gwen blew up Leo’s marriage to Javi. Leo admits that hurt like hell, but he hurt Gwen deeply too, and says they are all capable of mistakes. Rafe tells him to get to the point. Leo points out that Gwen has only been missing for one day and he was going to start looking for her himself, but he realized he doesn’t have the slightest clue where to start, so he pleads with Rafe to help him.

Susan tells EJ that there is some very bad energy surrounding him and questions what has gotten in to him. Susan argues that she told him the wickedness of Stefano is inside him, but she didn’t know he could be more cruel.

Rafe doesn’t think it’s a good idea for Leo to go out looking for Gwen. Leo argues that somebody has to and asks if Rafe is going to look for her. Rafe reveals that a case has been opened. Leo questions this being a case and says he’s not letting this go until Gwen is home safe. Rafe responds that they are not out looking for Gwen, but that could change soon. Rafe agrees to tell Leo what he knows but it has to remain strictly off the record. Leo promises not to breathe a word of this as he just wants to find his friend. Rafe tells Leo to start by telling him what he knows. Leo asks Rafe if he’s familiar with the concept of a dead man’s switch.

Lexie claims to Theo that she was speaking to a customer service rep at a new rideshare service to take her to the airport. Theo says she could’ve just asked him as he’d be happy to give her a ride. Lexie says she’s sure the airport traffic is crazy and she already ordered the car. Abe then comes home and greets them. Lexie says she’s glad he’s home as she was hoping they could have some family time tonight before she goes on her trip to visit her mother. Abe then reveals that he just got off the phone with Celeste, who said she had no idea Lexie was coming. Lexie is shocked that Abe talked to her mother. Abe says he wanted to say hello to her and remind her not to let Lexie overdo it. Lexie then claims that she wanted to surprise her and that’s why she didn’t know she was coming. Abe apologizes for ruining the surprise. Lexie says it’s okay as he didn’t know. Abe asks if she can forgive him. Lexie assures that she does and appreciates that he cares so much. Lexie tells Abe and Theo that she loves them with her whole heart and that they mean everything to her. Theo asks if she’s okay. Lexie talks about getting this time back with them and seeing the man Theo has become. Lexie says it’s been truly a gift. Lexie tearfully tells Abe that she will miss him.

Javi checks on Trey and says he’ll do everything he can to make sure he’s feeling better. Johnny says they can’t thank him enough for doing this. Javi says he couldn’t be happier to do it, adding that they can video chat every hour if they want and advises Chanel to call her doctor if she starts to feel sick. Javi then exits with Trey.

Susan grabs EJ’s hand and removes Stefano’s ring from his finger, saying that’s where the wicked energy is coming from.

Abe tells Lexie that he will miss her too but she won’t be gone long. Lexie suggests they have a goodbye dinner. Theo offers to cook but Lexie reveals that she already ordered takeout from the Bistro which should be ready, so she asks them to go get it. Theo says it doesn’t sound like a two man job but Lexie insists that she ordered a lot, so Abe and Theo exit together. Lexie then goes back to her phone and makes a call, saying the coast is clear.

Leo tells Rafe about Melinda going to open the file that Gwen left for him, only to find it blank which means EJ must have hacked in to it or had it deleted. Rafe calls that an interesting theory as Leo asks what he has. Rafe informs him that the police did a wellness check and found that Gwen’s hotel key hasn’t been swiped in 48 hours and there’s been no activity on her credit cards. Rafe then reveals that a construction worker just turned Gwen’s phone in and it was found smashed at the air strip.

Lexie brings out a box and staggers, saying not yet as she pleads for just a few more days.

Theo and Abe walk through the town square as Theo questions what’s going on because Abe hasn’t said a word. Abe responds that he feels awful for ruining Lexie’s surprise for her mother. Theo encourages him to stop beating himself up because Lexie forgave him. Theo asks if something else is bothering him. Abe admits that he doesn’t understand why Lexie took this trip without him. Theo points out that it’s been 15 years, so he’s sure Lexie wants to spend some alone time with her mother. Abe says that has to be the reason, but it’s been an overwhelming time for Lexie so maybe spending time alone with her mom might be what she needs right now.

Leo questions Gwen’s phone being found on the air strip. Rafe notes the DiMera private jet has been stationary but he knows EJ isn’t stupid enough to use his own plane. Rafe adds that he did some digging and found that only cargo planes have been through there in the time since. Javi then comes home with Trey. Rafe guesses Javi is doing some babysitting which he confirms. Javi explains that Trey has a cold and Johnny and Chanel didn’t want to risk Chanel catching it, so Trey’s going to hang out with them until Paulina can take him. Rafe says he’d love to stick around but he has to go as duty calls, so he tells Leo not to do anything stupid as he exits. Leo comments on Johnny and Chanel asking him to babysit and he wanted to say yes but he had to talk to Rafe about a big story. Javi then questions if Leo was there to talk about something crime related with Rafe or if he was just hanging around, hoping he would show up.

EJ asks Susan to give back the ring as it means a great deal to him. Susan responds that she will give it back when it’s safe. Susan warns EJ that he’s going down a very bad path and reminds him that he is not Stefano. Susan declares that she will not let him be that monster. EJ says that he hears her as Susan then exits with the ring.

Leo tells Javi that he didn’t come hoping that he would show up as he’s not that stalker-ish anymore. Leo adds that he’ll prove it by getting out of his hair and says he’ll see him around. Gus then comes out of the bedroom and questions what’s going on here.

Johnny tells Chanel that Trey’s blankets are all in the wash and he’s wiped down every surface in the apartment. Chanel thanks him and says she understands why they have to be cautious, but feels it’s silly to do all this over their son having a cold. Johnny says it’s better to be safe than sorry. Johnny adds that not only do they have a squeaky clean apartment, but they have it all to themselves. They start to kiss until Chanel apologizes and says she’s just not feeling it.

Rafe goes to the DiMera Mansion and asks EJ if Gwen is there. EJ responds that she’s at the Salem Inn. Rafe informs him that she’s not and that she hasn’t used her key card in over 48 hours. Rafe guesses EJ already knew that.

Abe and Theo return home with food from the Bistro and can’t believe what they come home to.

Rafe goes over how Gwen proposed buying the hospital out from under EJ, giving the board an opportunity to oust him and then she suddenly disappears. EJ calls it circumstantial and claims he had nothing to do with Gwen’s disappearance. EJ tells Rafe to get the hell off of his property but Susan comes over and asks what’s going on. EJ tells Susan that it’s nothing to worry about. Susan informs EJ that she performed a cleaning ritual on his ring. Susan asks if Rafe was there on business and what seems to be the trouble.

Leo tells Gus that he was just leaving, so he exits. Gus questions Javi as to what that was all about. Javi explains that he just got home and Leo was there to get some sort of quote from Rafe about a big news story and only stuck around to say hi to Trey. Gus hopes that news story can get Leo a job at the Chicago Tribune and he can leave them be. Gus then says he didn’t know they had a play date today. Javi says it was a last minute thing to help out Johnny and Chanel. Gus tries to play with Trey but he starts to cry, so Gus apologizes and says babies aren’t really his thing. Javi tells him not to worry about it and sings to Trey.

Chanel apologizes to Johnny as she was just complaining the other day about wanting him to make love to her more often. Johnny says it’s okay as Chanel mentions feeling a little nauseous with a little bit of lower back pain. Chanel adds that she’s missing Trey already and questions why he had to get sick today of all days. Chanel says Trey would distract her from how awful she’s feeling as she can already tell this time the side effects will be worse. Chanel decides she’ll just have to focus on how lucky she is to have great doctors, a loving family, Trey, a baby on the way, and most importantly Johnny.

Abe and Trey enter their home to find it decorated for Christmas as Lexie comes in with a Santa hat, calling it Christmas in July. Abe questions when she did all of this as they weren’t gone that long. Lexie reveals that she had some help from the DiMera Mansion staff. Lexie says she has missed so many Christmases and asked why wait all those months when they could just have it now. Theo agrees that she deserves two Christmases as they hug and wish each other a Merry Christmas. Abe calls it the first of many more that they will share together.

Rafe informs Susan that EJ is involved in some very shady stuff. EJ reminds Rafe that he asked him to leave. Susan tells EJ not to be rude and agrees with Rafe that EJ is involved in very shady stuff. Susan says she knows because of EJ’s ring, which she says has a dark, mystifying energy. Rafe wonders if that ring would confirm that EJ kidnapped Gwen. Susan argues that he must have it all backwards because EJ would do no such thing and she would feel it if that were true. EJ says they’ve taken up enough of Rafe’s time as he was just leaving. Rafe warns EJ that this isn’t over. EJ calls that an empty threat. Rafe insists it’s a very real threat and that he’s taking it all the way until EJ finally gets what’s coming to him. Rafe then exits.

Johnny decides he will take the rest of the day off and not go to work, but Chanel insists that she’s fine. Johnny says he will at least get her set up on the couch with snacks and a romantic comedy. Chanel decides she wants to video chat with Trey first. Chanel is sure Javi is doing great, but she wants to reassure him. Johnny assures that Trey sees and feels her love. Johnny promises someday, all of this will just be a distant memory and says they have a lot to look forward to. They hug and end up feeling the baby kick.

Lexie suggests they take turns saying what they are thankful for. Lexie starts by saying she’s so grateful to have this day, this meal, and this precious moment with her loves. Lexie talks about being blessed to have so many years with Abe and says she couldn’t be prouder of Theo. Lexie emotionally declares that she’s beyond grateful to be alive in this moment with her family.

Leo goes to his room at the Salem Inn and makes a call, trying to get flight records from the air strip. Leo thanks them and hangs up as he gets the records. Leo goes over the flights and finds one flight to Alamainia.

Gus tells Javi that he’s surprised Leo is still in town since he ran in to him earlier and he said he was leaving Salem to go look for Gwen as she’s apparently missing. Javi says he had no idea. Gus figured Leo would have filled him in. Gus adds that Leo also told him to tell Javi goodbye in case anything happens. Javi wonders if that’s what he was talking to Rafe about and why he didn’t just tell him directly. Gus asks if he wanted Leo to write him a love letter or something. Javi says no and that it’s all just really strange. Javi declares he’s done trying to figure out what’s going on in Leo’s mind which Gus says he’s glad to hear.

Leo texts Dimitri, asking if he happens to know where Gwen is. Dimitri texts back “Turnabout is fair play”

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Days Opinions For The Week Of August 3, 2026

Opinion Article

 

by Michele & Cheryl

8/3/26 – 8/7/26

We decided to change things up with this column. The idea came through Facebook. Someone from a soap opera group wrote a very funny and interesting article about the characters on a different show. We decided to pick up the baton and do our own version of it. We’re going to write about the idiots of the week. This column focuses on the characters who do idiotic things. Hopefully there’s enough space because there are plenty of them to go around. We can’t write about everybody so the challenge will be narrowing it down to a specific number of people. The characters won’t be in a particular order. It’s a random drawing. 

Our first idiot award goes to Javi. He’s picked because this guy didn’t hesitate to dump Leo because he felt like he wasn’t over Dimitri. Javi didn’t want to be with him and told Leo to move on since he did with Gus. Fast forward, and he wanted to help Leo while he was in Alamania. He had a dream about Leo and called out his name in his sleep. Javi is in a relationship with Gus, but he’s focused on Leo. He’s an idiot because he was free from Leo, but he wanted to circle in his orbit again. You would think he would mind his business instead of finding ways to bring him up like he’s on a juicy soap you can’t stop talking about…oh wait a second…LOL

Our next nominee is Paulina. This woman has become a little too concerned about Abe’s situation with Lexie. She was the one who chose to do the dumping before she got dumped, but she was a little too excited to find out Lexie left Abe to see her mother. Paulina practically drooled over the idea that Lexie left around Abe’s bday. Side note: Paulina remembered Abe’s birthday, but Lexie didn’t. Lexie wanted to recreate Christmas, but she didn’t think about Abe’s birthday. He should feel about as wanted as a jury duty letter. Paulina should focus on running Salem instead of playing buttinsky with Abe’s marriage. She’s an idiot because she is poking her nose in Abe’s business just to rub it in that he hooked up with someone who left her. She clearly doesn’t have enough to do in Salem, or she wouldn’t be playing amateur detective. 

We have a three-way tie for this spot. Xander, Philip, and Gabi got a little too happy that they beat EJ. Like most idiots, they couldn’t help bragging about their little victory. They couldn’t keep quiet about the loan to save Titan. EJ got upset and decided to find out where they got the money. He found out through Rita (the busybody of DiMera Enterprises.) that Gabi let Xander and Philip take her inheritance. Things hit the fan quickly when he found out what Gabi did. EJ pulled a fast one on them and sped up the time they had to pay for the rest of the loan. Needless to say the celebration stopped for the trio. The knuckleheads shouldn’t have jumped at rubbing it in that they beat EJ. They are idiots because they chose to be smug to EJ as if they didn’t have anything to lose. Xander, Philip, and Gabi found out the hard way that they were no match for EJ. Thanks to their smugness he went after them. We cheered Alex on when he told them that they should have stayed quiet. If they did that, they wouldn’t have made our list.

The last person to make the idiot list would have to be Stephanie. She isn’t last because she is the least idiotic. As we informed you earlier, the list is in no particular order. If we did the article in order, she would have made the top of the list. Stephanie decided to loan out her brain. For some reason, she decided not to tell Alex about her run in with Joy. The woman used being asleep as an excuse for why she didn’t tell Alex about it. Are you serious? She makes it so easy for Joy to come after her man. Stephanie felt it was the right thing to do to tell Theo but not the man she promised to spend her life with. We thought that was stupid too. Joy didn’t hesitate to tell him about it. Needless to say, she made it seem like Stephanie speared her like she was WWE star Roman Reigns. (If you watch WWE, you know who he is. If you don’t watch it, then you can overlook that reference.) Alex gave her a small piece of his mind about not telling him what happened. We enjoyed him finally ripping into her about her wrongdoings. She doesn’t get called out enough so it was refreshing to see it. If Stephanie continues to make stupid decisions like that, she will have a permanent spot on the list of idiots.

There you have it. We have our idiots list completed. It was a hard choice to narrow it down, but we were able to do it. If the characters continue to do idiotic things, there will be another list ready.

 

 

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 Nitpicks & Flubs For The Week Of August 3, 2026

Nitpicks & Flubs

 

by Michele & Cheryl

Monday

-EJ’s flashback could be heard before it was shown.

-Why would the Kirakis family have alcohol at the mansion when Maggie is an alcoholic?

-Philip’s flashback could also be heard before it was shown.

Tuesday

-Dimitri was talking in Leo’s flashback before it was shown.

-The house in Alamania looked like the Kirakis mansion. 

-Marlena left Xander in her office when she went to see Brady. He could have done anything while she was gone.

Wednesday

– If Joy didn’t need anything from Alex, why didn’t she stay in New York?

-Lani referred to Abe by his first name instead of “dad.”

-Theo was in the office one minute and with Lani the next.

Thursday 

-Holly could be heard talking while Xander was shown. 

– When did Susan become Rachel’s aunt? Rachel called her “Aunt Susan.” She’s not related to her at all.

– The waitress served Steve and Brady coffee twice. They didn’t finish the first cups they had. 

-Sarah was talking to Holly while Xander was shown.

-Rachel should have heard Brady and Kristen yelling in the apartment. They weren’t whispering to each other. 

Friday

-Joy didn’t say anything about doing physical therapy before.

-Kayla was talking to Joy while Stephanie was shown

-Xander and Philip drank an entire bottle of champagne as if they could afford to pay for it.

 

 

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 Of Our Lives Best Lines For The Week Of August 3, 2026

Days of Our Lives Best Lines

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Best Lines by Michele and Cheryl 

8/3/26 – 8/7/26

Leo: OH Gwennie. Oh, thank God I found you.

Gwen: OH, my God, Marty, what are you doing here?

Leo: I’m here for the world-famous Alamainian Tchotchkes Fair. What do you think I’m doing here? I came to rescue you.

 

Dimitri: I take it you found the place without too much trouble?

Leo: Well, Maps actually sent me to a nightclub called Laut und Lustig, which I learned is German for “ Loud and Fun.” Not the most creative name, but I suppose you do know what you’re in for. 

 

Dimitri: And I see you brought your meandering anecdotes with you. 

Leo: No, just a personal item and one carry-on. Traveling light.

 

Leo: Gwennie, you’re not hurt or anything, right? You’re okay?

Gwen: Oh, yeah, you know. I’m just swell, just taking this all in, having an “Eat, Pray, Love” moment. No, of course I’m not bloody okay. 

Leo: Yeah, of course not. Of course not. I mean, how could you be? They’re feeding you gastronomic atrocities. Is he not letting you shower? Do you at least have a cozy pillow?

Dimitri: I assure you, I have been the most gracious of hosts.

Gwen: Oh, yes. You’re so very gracious. You’re just ripe for a five-star dazzling review, if you hadn’t kidnapped me in broad daylight and held me against my will. 

 

Dimitri: Gwen, you should be on cloud nine right now. The cavalry has arrived to rescue you.

Gwen: I’m, yes, my knight in shining armor. 

Leo: Speaking of, those dudes must have been schvitzing up a storm in those cranking metal vests, ugh.

Gwen: Leo, now is not the time, please.

Leo: Yes, yes, of course not. I know. Listen, and I just want to say, even though it was a very long and very turbulent flight, and I couldn’t sleep at all and all I ate was one tiny bag of cashews, and I am still recovering from a concussion so I’m kind of seeing the world as, like, abstract art, just being here with you right now, I am so relieved, I could break out in song period. I won’t, but I could. 

 

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Days Short Recap Friday, August 14, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Theo burst into the DiMera mansion and caught Chad up with what happened to Lexie. Rita tried to intervene, but Theo didn’t want to hear from her. He let her know that he and Chad didn’t believe that she would tell the truth. Rita tried to stop them from leaving, but they pushed past her to get to the tunnels. She saw Devlin and realized that the memory eraser she gave him worked because he didn’t remember her. Devlin overheard people talking about a woman being hidden in the tunnels because a miracle drug didn’t work. Rita offered to take him home since he didn’t seem well. Devlin didn’t know about that since he didn’t recognize her. Rita tased him, and he went down. Johnny and Chanel waited for Paulina to show up to babysit Trey. Chanel insulted Lexie for leaving on Abe’s birthday. Johnny tried to defend his aunt, but it didn’t do any good. Paulina arrived with a gift for Abe. She explained that Marlena talked her into getting it, but she was being funny about it. Chanel wondered if Johnny knew what his grandmother was trying to say. They were about to leave when Chanel had Braxton’s Hicks. She said she was fine so they left. Lani arrived for Abe’s party. Abe didn’t feel like celebrating after finding out that Lexie was missing. Lani felt like the party would be good for him. She and Theo believed that Lexie went somewhere to get treatment. Abe wished Lexie had be honest with him in the first place.

Theo found Lexie in the tunnels and rushed to her side. He asked Chad to get Abe. Theo got Lexie some water and promised to get her help. He didn’t give Lexie a chance to speak because he ran upstairs to get his father. Chad arrived at Abe’s party to get him so he could see Lexie. Abe rushed to see Lexie. Chad explained to everyone what happened. He saw Cat at the square and yelled at her because he believed she knew Lexie was dying. Chad didn’t want to hear what she had to say. He said that she sounded like EJ and called her a liar. Rita took Devlin to a room with a pod. Devlin woke up and wanted to know where he was. EJ showed up in the room. He was upset to see Devlin, but he was excited to see him. EJ wanted Devlin gone permanently. Rita assured him that she would take care of it. She wanted to give him the flu medication first. Rita gave EJ a memory erasing pill without him knowing. She sent him upstairs so she could take care of Devlin. Johnny and Chanel went home with pizza for Paulina. They told her what happened at the party. Paulina thought it had something to do with Lexie. Chanel went into labor. Theo ran into Abe and took him to see Lexie, but she was unconscious.

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BTG Short Recap Friday, August 14, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

Joey called someone and told the person to make it happen. Someone ended up grabbing Heather and took her to Joey’s place. Joey wanted to know what she was doing with Vanessa. Heather said Vanessa wasn’t her pawn. She reminded him that they were family. Joey said he adored her but that was a long time ago. He said there were things he couldn’t unsee when he looked at her. Joey reminded her of what she did as the Impaler. He said there was a limit to what he would do but he couldn’t say the same for her. Joey said that was where the problem was. Heather said the difference between them was she was willing to get her hands dirty or bloody while he had other people do it. Joey threatened to kill her if she did anything to Vanessa. Andre called someone and asked if the person had eyes on their mutual headache.

Andre talked to Smitty about attracting certain people when he was at his lowest. He let Smitty know that Dani changed him. Andre said he was afraid that his past was catching up to him. Later on, Andre got a text from the mystery person telling him to meet at the Bowman Hotel. When he went to meet the person, it turned out to be Heather. Dani met with her family so they could tell her what they have been saying about her. She wanted them to tell her their concerns about Bill. Dani told them nothing was going on with Bill. They let her know they would be there for her if she needed them.

 

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Days Short Recap Thursday, August 13, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Gwen wanted Rafe to rescue Leo since he helped her. Rafe didn’t seem that interested in helping Leo. He said that Leo was free and could go if he wanted. Rafe had a signed confession so he wanted her to worry about herself. He wasn’t interested in putting her in jail. Rafe wanted her to help him get EJ, and she would be free. Gwen wanted to go after EJ, but she wasn’t leaving Leo. Rafe informed her that it was her once chance to get away from Dimitri and take EJ down. Dimitri tried to get Leo to be with him, but he didn’t think he should be with someone he’s forcing to stay with him. Stephanie went to the hospital to give Joy flowers from Kelsey. She wanted Kayla to give them to her. Kayla thought it was a good thing that she wanted to try to work things out with Joy. Stephanie didn’t know what she would do if Joy never let her be part of Kelsey’s life. She was afraid her marriage wouldn’t survive it. Kayla let her know that there wasn’t anything she could do about it now. She let her know that Joy was in the middle of a medical crisis. Stephanie left to go to Jada’s place. Alex met with Steve at the pub to plan a surprise party for Stephanie. Steve was blunt with him and told him that Joy was taking advantage of him so she could spend time with him. He said that Joy needed boundaries. Alex said he didn’t have any interest in Joy other than co-parenting.

Paulina and Marlena caught up with each other at the pub. She talked to Marlena about it being Abe’s birthday. Paulina knew she shouldn’t care about Abe’s birthday, but Marlena thought she didn’t have to try so hard to stop caring. Marlena gave her advice about Abe. Paulina left after their conversation. Abe wasn’t enjoying his birthday after the news Theo gave him about Lexie. He thought Lexie went to see Dr. Rolf. Abe assured Theo that Lexie would come back to them. Later Theo ran into Marlena so she took him to her office. Marlena thought he should look at the DiMera mansion for his mother. She told him that his mother wasn’t just sick. Lexie is dying. Marlena told him that Lexie didn’t want her family to watch her die. Theo rushed to the DiMera mansion to find his mother in the tunnels.

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BTG Short Recap Thursday, August 13, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

At the hospital, Bill thought Andre was there because he was jealous. Bill said he asked to see Dani and she went to see him right away. He told Andre that no matter how hard he tried, Dani wouldn’t stop thinking about him. Andre said Dani had memories of him because their relationship was in the past. He told Bill that their relationship was going to stay in the past. Andre ripped into Bill for taking pride in the idea of Dani having feelings for him after what he did to her. While they were arguing, Bill’s heart started racing. Ashley came in and told Andre about stressing Bill out. Andre got a text from the person who has been texting him. Dani talked to Vanessa and Heather about Bill and Andre.

Later on, Dani went to the hospital and found out about Bill and Andre’s argument. Dani went into Bill’s room and threatened him if he ever told Andre what they did. Hayley showed up. Dani left the room. She asked Bill if she and Andre should be worried about him and Dani. Andre went to Uptown and got another mystery text. The person said they were at the bar. Andre got a call from Dani. Someone watched him while he was on the phone. Vanessa went to see Joey who wasn’t happy about her spending time with Heather. Joey thought Heather was after something. He thought Heather wanted to merge their businesses and wondered how far she was willing to go to get what she wanted.

 

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Days Update Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Brady runs in to Marlena in the town square. Brady informs her that his former assistant Amira is leaving Basic Black as she got another offer from a top fashion company in New York. Marlena says that’s good for her but bad for them. Brady says he doesn’t blame her since Titan is on the verge of collapse so there’s not a lot of job security there. Marlena asks if they have anyone else to use to fill her position. Brady says he’s hoping but he has to go. Brady says they’ll talk soon as he walks away. Marlena then pulls out her phone.

Tate is at his gym, calling Gwen and leaving a message that their session is almost up so he wanted to see where she was at.

EJ visits Holly in the hospital. Holly says she’s physically much better but mentally not so much. EJ informs her that he has good news that he hopes will lift her spirits.

Xander catches Sarah at the hospital and asks if she has a minute. Sarah says she doesn’t, but Xander says it’s about Holly. Xander tells Sarah that he thinks he knows how the pills ended up in Holly’s bag and that Holly had nothing to do with it. Sarah questions who put the pills in her bag if Holly didn’t. Xander tells her that it was EJ to cover his own ass.

Marlena goes to the Kiriakis Mansion and thanks Kate for seeing her on such short notice. Kate says it sounded urgent and asks if everything is okay. Marlena brings up Amira turning her resignation in at Basic Black. Kate says she did remarkable work and it will be hard to replace her. Marlena asks what if they replace her, since that was the plan in the beginning until she backed out. Marlena says with the Johnny business behind them, she thinks they’d have a very good chance of working well together. Kate responds that she’s sorry but it’s going to have to be a no.

Brady joins Tate for a workout at the gym and they talk about Rachel coming home and Holly getting released from the hospital today. Tate says he hasn’t heard a thing from Holly since she kicked him out of the hospital and he’s tried calling and texting. Brady encourages him to just give her some time.

Holly asks EJ what the good news is. EJ informs her that he spoke to Melinda Trask and he’s confident that Amy Choi will be dropping the lawsuit. Holly gets excited and calls that amazing as she thanks EJ. Holly acknowledges that EJ promised to come through for her and she didn’t doubt him. Holly tells EJ that it means the world to her to have him on her side.

Sarah tells Xander that she would love nothing more than to find out someone planted the pills in Holly’s bag but questions why EJ would when he loves Holly. Xander suggests he did it to stay out of prison and protect his company since DiMera Pharmaceuticals poisoned so many people with tainted drugs on EJ’s watch, so he’d do whatever it takes to stop that from coming out. Xander says they weren’t able to prove Coriseal was in the well water, which Sarah says was most likely because EJ switched the lab results. Xander says EJ knew they would keep digging and that Holly was a loose end, so his thought process was to convince them that Holly was lying so all the questions about contaminated pills would go away.

Marlena brings up that when she asked Kate to come on board, she said it would be an honor. Kate responds that perhaps it’s an honor she doesn’t deserve. Kate states that when she set up Johnny with the lawsuit, she was doing it to save Titan and then it backfired so they dropped the lawsuit, but EJ is not letting go and created a shell company to buy out Titan’s loans. Marlena knows EJ amended the terms making it almost impossible to pay back. Kate adds that Philip made a last ditch effort to get funding to save the company and the estate, but that failed, so most likely Titan is going under, followed by Basic Black. Kate says that’s why she can’t work with her, because all of this is her fault. Marlena disagrees that Titan going under would be Kate’s fault. Kate points out that it was her idea to set up Johnny. Marlena points out that she didn’t have to twist Xander’s arm to go along with it. Marlena knows Kate didn’t force Philip to go along with the forgery scheme as that was all on Vivian and so little of that was her fault. Kate questions why she’s being so kind to her. Marlena knows that she’s been upset with her lately, but the fact is that they’ve been longtime friends and she knows this could cost her much more than money or her position. Kate agrees, noting that it already cost her the man she loves.

Tate complains that he doesn’t want to give Holly time, he wants to fix this. Brady calls it a delicate situation. Tate says if she wants him to leave, he will, but he has to try. Brady decides if he’s going to the hospital, he’s going with him to check on Sarah anyway. Tate stops to check if Gwen is still coming in and mentions that she didn’t show up for her scheduled session and she hasn’t responded to his texts which is weird since she usually gets back to him right away. Brady mentions Steve saying he was concerned about Gwen earlier because she hasn’t been seen or heard from in 24 hours. Tate asks if he thinks something happened to her.

Holly excitedly tells EJ that she can’t believe this as she thought Amy Choi would never back off. Holly tells EJ that she’s so grateful that he stood by her when no one else did. EJ responds that sometimes the people who love you the most, hurt you the most. EJ wants Holly to call him if he ever needs anything at all as he’ll always be there for her.

Xander tells Sarah that he’s aware it sounds a little outlandish. Sarah says it actually doesn’t and mentions that Steve told them he talked to other pharmacies and about two years ago, their supply of Coriseal was just cut off. Xander says that DiMera knew they made a bad batch. Sarah calls it a deadly batch. Xander says instead of reporting it, they just tried to bury the problem which explain the missing records. Xander adds that when it started coming up again, EJ used Holly to cover it back up. Sarah says if he did that, that is so truly despicable. Sarah complains that she fell for it and thought the worst of her niece. Sarah remarks on someone that’s supposed to love you completely losing faith in you which Xander calls the worst feeling in the world.

Kate tells Marlena that she’s been doing a lot of self reflection on the last time she felt totally and completely alone. Kate says this whole debacle hurt her relationships with everyone in her life and she’s feeling like she hates herself. Marlena argues that the Kate she’s always known wouldn’t beat herself up, she’d get back up and get back in the fight. Kate responds that she doesn’t know how this time. Marlena encourages that she does. Marlena hopes Kate and Roman find their way back together. Marlena knows Roman feels lucky to be feeling this kind of love in his life and she’s pretty sure he’ll be coming back and that Kate will want him to. Kate thanks her and calls her a good friend. Kate adds that she’s grateful for Marlena’s forgiveness, kindness, and for her offer. Marlena says the offer will stay on the table as she hopes they can make it happen.

Xander tells Sarah that she can’t blame herself as she had every reason to believe the evidence in front of her. Sarah argues that she should’ve believed Holly and should’ve known she would never have gone back to drugs, but she went straight to it because EJ wanted her to think that and she fell for it. Sarah asks how they nail that bastard. Xander asks about the security footage. Sarah says it won’t show anything just like the book on her desk. Xander says until they have solid proof, they can’t say anything to anyone outside of their little investigative circle. Sarah decides she will go talk to Holly to see if she will forgive her. Xander assures that she will eventually as Holly knows Sarah loves her and never meant to hurt her. Sarah says that’s the last thing she meant to do. Sarah thanks Xander for loving Holly too. Xander tells Sarah that he’s there for whatever she needs. Sarah admits she’s grateful for that and then heads to Holly’s room.

Brady tells Tate that he doesn’t know what’s going on with Gwen since Steve had Shane run her phone and it hadn’t been active in 24 hours and no one can locate it. Tate worries that something must have happened to her. Brady thinks they definitely need to let Shawn know. Tate states that nothing about this sounds good to him.

Sarah goes to Holly’s room and reminds EJ that she told him to stay away from Holly. EJ responds that he is Holly’s attorney while Holly points out that EJ thinks he can get Amy Choi to drop the lawsuit. Sarah comments on EJ going above and beyond for Holly. EJ responds that he cares a lot about her. Sarah wants EJ out and threatens to call security, so EJ agrees to go. Holly argues that he shouldn’t have to. Holly tells EJ to keep her posted and thanks him again for everything as EJ then exits. Holly can’t believe Sarah as she thought she told her she didn’t want to see her, but she still comes in barking orders. Holly asks if Sarah is going to try send her to rehab, Bayview, or prison next. Sarah tells Holly that what comes next is an apology and tells her that she’s so sorry.

Kate goes to the Brady Pub and asks Roman if they can talk, insisting it’s important.

Holly questions Sarah saying she’s sorry. Sarah tells Holly that when they found Coriseal in her system, she was just praying there was an explanation. Holly says she told her a thousand times that she wasn’t using. Sarah adds that when Tate found pills in her bag, she had blinders on and thought her worst fear was coming true. Holly questions if she thinks something different now. Sarah responds that she’s come to realize that the pills could’ve been planted in her bag to make it look like they belonged to her. Holly asks if she finally believes her which Sarah confirms that she does. Sarah says they don’t know who could’ve planted the pills but promises they are going to figure it out. Sarah says in the meantime, she needs Holly to know how sorry she is for jumping to conclusions that the Coriseal belonged to her. Sarah knows she hurt her so bad and she will have a really hard time forgiving herself for that. Holly tells Sarah that it’s okay and she understands why she didn’t believe her, so she forgives her. Holly just wants to move past all of this. Sarah cries that she does too as they hug.

Xander finishes a call as Brady and Tate arrive at the hospital. Brady tells Tate not to worry about Gwen as he’s sure the police will get to the bottom of it. Tate decides to go to the gift shop to get something for Holly and says he hopes she lets him give it to her. Xander goes over to Brady and said he couldn’t help but overhear something about Gwen and the police, so he asks if everything is alright. Brady informs him that Gwen missed an appointment with Tate this morning and no one has heard from her, so he and Steve think that she might have been kidnapped by EJ because she was given the green light to buy the hospital, but not if she’s missing. Xander tells Brady that isn’t all that EJ has been up to.

Marlena goes to see EJ at the DiMera Mansion and says she thought it was important to have this conversation in person. EJ asks what he can do for her. Marlena responds that she’s had several non-confidential conversations where his name has come up and it seems some people are afraid of him and some people think he’s going to destroy their lives. EJ laughs that off as rather dramatic and asks who these people are. Marlena tells him that Gwen is one along with Kristen and Lexie and all of the personnel at Titan. EJ calls Kristen and Lexie warriors and guesses Titan has quite the list of grievances. Marlena asks EJ if it’s ever going to end.

Xander informs Brady that EJ planted the pills in Holly’s bag. Brady wants to kill him but Xander reminds him they can’t prove it yet and they don’t want to tip EJ off, so he needs to calm down. Brady calls it ironic that Xander is telling him to calm down. Tate comes back, so Brady tells him that he’s got an update for him but it has to stay in this small circle. Tate asks what he found out. Brady informs Tate that the pills he found in Holly’s bag were probably not her pills at all. Xander says he remembered leaving the bag unattended so someone could’ve planted the pills then. Tate worries that if that’s true, that means he’s been wrong all this time and questions how to fix this and what he’s going to say to Holly. Xander steps away to let them talk. Tate brings up that he is the one who brought the pills to Brady and Sarah. Brady encourages that he did the right thing, but Tate says that Holly begged him to believe her and he didn’t, so he questions what he’s going to do to fix this. Brady instructs Tate to look Holly in the eye and say he’s sorry. Brady adds that he’s sorry too since he jumped to the conclusion that this was all about addiction. Brady is sorry if he made everyone believe that so he owes apologies too. Tate tells him it’s not his fault as they all went there. Tate says he has to go talk to Holly, so Brady wishes him luck.

Roman tells Kate that it’s not a good time as he’s setting up for the lunch rush. Kate offers to put on an apron and help, but Roman refuses to allow her. Roman tells Kate that she never fit in at the Brady Pub and that he should’ve known as soon as she went back to Titan, that she would turn back in to the woman who married Victor and Stefano. Kate responds that she’s always been that woman and always will be, but she’s also the woman who worked at Hudson Street Diner with Faye and Hattie as a waitress, waiting on Roman and Abe. Roman calls that a long time ago. Kate says she even had feelings for him back then. Kate admits she’s been with a lot of men, but says Roman was different and brought out things in her that were different. Kate says she didn’t feel like she had to compete for his attention or impress him as she could just be herself and she really liked that. Kate brings up Roman also being the father of their two children. Roman repeats that he doesn’t have time to walk down memory lane. Kate says that she is Roman’s wife, not Victor’s or Stefano’s. Kate adds that it’s been a long and winding road, but fate finally brought them here and she thinks that’s because they are soulmates, so she’s not going to give that up without a fight. Kate tells Roman that he’s not going to freeze her out. Kate admits she made a terrible mistake. Roman points out that mistake hurt his family. Kate cries that she’s so sorry, but she doesn’t want him to think that she took that action because she didn’t love him. Kate insists that she loves him so much. Roman questions if she loves him more than money and power. Kate says she does more than anything and she would give it all up in a heartbeat for him. Roman remarks that it seems like now, she won’t have a choice.

EJ questions Marlena when what ends, wanting to protect his family. Marlena argues that he’s actually hurting his family, pointing out what’s happened to Lexie. EJ asks what she means. Marlena reveals that she knows Lexie is dying and that she’s keeping that from Abe and Theo to save them from going through the pain of losing her again. EJ argues that his intention was to give Lexie her life back and says the last thing he needs is to be berated by her, so she can just leave. Marlena argues that she’s not trying to berate him, but to ask him to stop what he’s doing at Titan and to stop asking Johnny to do his dirty work. EJ quickly questions what Johnny said to her. Marlena says he said nothing, but that his answer told her everything.

Sarah thanks Holly for being so forgiving and tells her how important she is to her. Sarah adds that she is glad that Holly was telling the truth. Tate then enters the room, so Sarah goes to talk to the doctor about getting Holly discharged. Tate sits at Holly’s side and tells her that he’s so sorry for thinking the pills were hers and he feels awful. Holly says not as awful as she feels since someone did this to her and made the people she loves doubt her, most importantly Tate.

Roman tells Kate that as angry as he is with her, he doesn’t want Titan to fail as it would hurt too many people they care about. Kate appreciates that. Roman admits that he would hate if she lost everything. Kate cries that she feels like she already has. Roman says that’s not true as he still loves her, but he just needs to work on liking her again. Kate responds that she is going to work on reminding him what he liked about her in the first place.

Tate tells Holly that she has every right to be angry with him. Tate says he loves her so much and hopes she can find it in her heart to forgive him. Tate doesn’t want to think about who did this to her, he just wants to think about Holly getting out of the hospital and them doing the fun things they talked about. Tate tells her that she will be okay as they kiss. Holly tells Tate that she has more good news as EJ thinks he can get Amy Choi to drop the lawsuit. Tate says that’s great. Holly feels like a huge weight has been lifted. Tate says they can celebrate that, but in the meantime, he has something to make her smile as he gives her a stuffed animal from the gift shop. Tate tells Holly they are going to get her out of here for real this time.

Marlena asks EJ not to drag Johnny in to this. Marlena knows Johnny does not want to follow in Stefano’s footsteps and she doesn’t think EJ does either. EJ responds that he has a legacy to uphold. Marlena points out that he also has a choice. Marlena notes that she’s seen his darkside and knows he can be vengeful and ruthless, but she’s also seen the side of him that both of her daughters fell in love with, the man who adores his children and would do anything to embrace and protect his mother. Marlena hopes they get to end up with that side of EJ. EJ thanks Marlena for sharing her thoughts, but assures that he’s only protecting his family. Marlena would like to believe that’s true.

Sarah rejoins Brady and Xander to tell them that Holly forgave her and she thinks she’s going to forgive Tate too. Brady says that’s so good to hear. Sarah adds that she found EJ in Holly’s room again and it took everything in her to hold back from going off on him. Sarah doesn’t want EJ to know that they are onto him and says it’s going to crush Holly to know that EJ betrayed her that way. Xander says there’s no reason to tell her until they know for sure. Brady says he will fill Steve in as he’s going to keep digging until they find proof that EJ was responsible. Xander says he can’t wait to see EJ brought to his knees. Sarah points out that she didn’t see them working as a team coming. Xander declares that it’s like Victor said, never underestimate the power of a common enemy.

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Days Update Monday, July 27, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Gabi answers the door at home to see Philip and tries to close the door on him.

Alex and Joy bring Kelsey to the Brady Pub. Joy thanks Alex for coming to the hospital with her. Alex is glad she’s on the mend. Joy is glad to be out of her neck brace so she can enjoy sleeping in her own bed again. Arianna comes over and greets them. Ari says she’s glad to have Joy and Kelsey back as her next door neighbors and asks how Joy is doing. Joy says she’s much better and credits Alex for being such a great help.

Leo runs in to Marlena in the town square and says he was just about to call her for an emergency last minute session. Marlena asks what’s going on. Leo informs her that he’s certain a terrible fate has befallen Gwen and he’s the only one who can save her.

Cat goes to Rafe’s office. Rafe notes that she sounded really fired up over the phone. Cat then delivers Rafe a handwritten confession from Gwen, confessing to teaming up with EJ for a whole host of crimes. Rafe questions where she got it. Cat admits she hacked Gwen’s attorney’s computer and stole it.

Philip tells Gabi that he has something to say and she’s going to listen. Philip repeats that he and Xander had nothing to do with her counterfeit bags. Philip asks how stupid they would have to be to antagonize her when their entire fate rested in her rich hands. Gabi argues that it wouldn’t be stupid while they were profiting off of it. Philip states again that they had nothing to do with it and calls it outrageous and insulting that Gabi would think that. Gabi mocks Philip being hurt and insulted while asking how hurtful and insulting it is for her to see her creations ripped off. Philip repeats that he and Xander had nothing to do with it. Gabi questions taking his word for it. Philip states that he’s being dead honest. Philip admits he’s done despicable things in the past, but that’s not who he is anymore, and he would never do that to someone he cares about.

Joy talks about Alex being such a great help for her and their daughter. Alex is just glad they are okay. Joy repeats that it’s thanks to him. Arianna says to call her anytime if she needs anything. Joy thanks her as Ari heads back to her table. Alex calls Ari a good friend. Alex brings up Philip. Joy says everyone has made it very clear that they should call them instead of Alex, unless it has to do with Kelsey. Alex assures that she can still call him anytime. Joy says it’s okay and that she’s got it from here, so he doesn’t need to hang around. Alex says he will see Kelsey again soon then as he then exits the Pub. Arianna then starts clapping and mocks Joy for her performance, accusing her of still having a thing for Alex which Joy denies. Arianna asks if Joy came back to Salem so that Alex could fall in love with his daughter and back in love with her too. Joy denies that, pointing out they were never in love and just hooked up, adding that Alex is married now. Ari points out that Joy has a kid with him while Joy argues that she’s not going to use her child to get a man. Joy then admits that it would be nice for her daughter to have two caring parents in her life, without a psycho stepmom in the picture.

Alex runs in to Stephanie in the town square. She asks about Joy’s doctor’s appointment. Alex says it went okay and she’s back home to start physical therapy soon. Alex asks about Stephanie’s day. Stephanie calls it stressful as the hospital’s future depends on Gwen buying it but she’s gone missing and no one knows what’s going on, so Steve and the police are looking into it. Alex asks if she thinks something happened to Gwen. Stephanie says you’d think if she was going off the grid, she would’ve at least left a note or told someone.

Leo tells Marlena how it makes no sense for Gwen to disappear right before she was going to buy the hospital from EJ. Leo says he had to do something about it, so he went to Melinda Trask to open the document from Gwen’s lawyer but the document was blank. Marlena asks what he thinks happened to it. Leo thinks EJ found out about it and got rid of it before he could see it. Leo adds that the next thing EJ is going to get rid of is him.

Cat explains to Rafe that Leo told her about the file and that he’s convinced EJ disappeared Gwen. Rafe looks up on his computer and sees that Steve checked in with the police to do a wellness check on Gwen but there’s no result yet. Rafe asks if Cat thinks something happened. Cat points out that with Gwen not around, it delays her purchase of the hospital which is certainly to EJ’s advantage. Rafe mentions seeing the state board gave EJ 90 days to sell the hospital or they will take it. Cat states that Gwen disappearing gives EJ the chance to keep the hospital after those 90 days are over. Rafe asks how that’s possible after the state board agreed his activity was illegal. Cat says if anyone can skate by, it’s EJ which Rafe agrees with. Cat adds that she called Andrew to track Gwen’s phone and he confirmed it hasn’t been turned on since yesterday morning. Rafe calls it unlike Gwen to be off the grid. Rafe then asks if Cat now wants to tell him why she committed a crime and stole the letter.

Gabi questions Philip saying he cares about her when she was under the impression that he hated her. Philip clarifies that he hates what she did in bugging Xander’s office. Philip reminds her that he said when they were together that she made him happier than he’d been in a long time and woke him up to what his life could be. Philip says he thought they were in it for the long haul and going to get married. Gabi points out they wouldn’t have had kids which Philip says he was fine with. Philip says his point is that he thought they had something special and asks if Gabi did too.

Arianna informs Joy that Stephanie is her cousin, so she warns her to be careful what she says about her. Joy admits she didn’t know that. Arianna asks why she called Stephanie psycho. Joy responds that things have been complicated between them and Stephanie has kind of lost it a couple of times around her. Ari feels that’s understandable, especially if Joy was trying to break up Stephanie and Alex which would be shady and low. Joy insists that’s not what she’s doing because she’s not that type of person. Ari asks if she’s sure about that. Joy declares that she’s not trying to cause problems for Alex and Stephanie, she’s just trying to make sure her daughter has two loving parents in her and Alex and trying to do right back by her daughter.

Alex can’t believe EJ would do this after all the damage he’s caused Titan. Alex says he won’t do anything to provoke him further, but wishes EJ would get his. Stephanie thinks everybody wishes that. Nearby, Marlena tells Leo that if EJ got rid of the letter, he must believe he never saw it. Leo worries that EJ would think of him a loose end and would want to get rid of him for that. Leo adds that EJ could’ve had a hacker get rid of or maybe Melinda did, but he has to figure out his next move.

Cat tells Rafe that she had to act fast and get rid of the letter before Leo published it and tipped EJ off, giving him time to cover his tracks, and she wanted to keep Leo out of EJ’s crosshairs. Rafe reads that Gwen wrote that if Leo is reading this, she’s probably dead and EJ is to blame. Rafe notes that the list doesn’t give them a lot to go off of. Rafe says they already know they were doing experiments on Lexie and were going to put Dr. Rolf’s drug on the black market which they seemed to have abandoned, so he doesn’t see anything here, but Cat says she does.

Gabi tells Philip that she did think they had something special and real, but guesses it wasn’t meant to be. Gabi tells him that he should go, but Philip says not before he finishes saying what he came to say. Philip brings up Gabi accusing Theo of ratting her out and refusing to believe his denials, Theo was devastated, and now she’s doing the same thing with him and it hurts like Hell. Philip then exits as Arianna comes home.

Alex tells Stephanie that it’s driving him up the wall, having to sit and wait while Philip is trying to get some of Gabi’s inheritance money which he feels is a waste of time. Stephanie asks if he doesn’t think Philip will be successful. Alex responds that when Gabi makes up her mind on something, there’s no changing it. Alex then gets a call and says he’ll be right there. Stephanie guesses it was Joy but Alex informs her that it was his dad, who has the amended birth certificate and wants he and Joy to come over to sign some documents including the custody arrangements. Stephanie comments that Justin works fast. Alex says they will get this whole co-parenting thing settled and thinks getting the legal stuff behind them is a step in the right direction. Alex tells Stephanie that he will see her at home soon as he exits.

Joy tells Kelsey that it’s just them and she is her favorite person in the whole world. Joy adds that she thinks Kelsey is becoming Alex’s favorite too. Joy remarks that the good news is things aren’t looking so good for Alex and his nutso wife right now, so if they do split up. Joy then gets a call from Alex and says she can be there soon. Joy hangs up and tells Kelsey that she’s about to get a new name of great distinction.

Leo tells Marlena that he’s through being paranoid and letting fear control him. Leo admits EJ scares him but he won’t let him get away with this. Leo declares that he’s going to find Gwen and if it is too late, he will avenge her. Marlena argues that it’s not his responsibility and he’s not trained for this. Leo argues that he tried to get the pros involved and brings up believing Cat was ISA. Leo says he confided in Cat, but she denied being ISA and told him that law enforcement wouldn’t take him seriously, so it’s up to him. Leo declares he is going to summon his courage and if something happens to him, he will exit the cruel cold world in a blaze of glory. Marlena tries to stop him but Leo says he must go carry out his noble mission and walks away.

Leo goes to his room at the Salem Inn and begins packing, saying he’s coming for Gwen.

Cat shows Rafe where Gwen admits to conspiring with EJ to kidnap Dimitri and that Dimitri said he was grabbed the moment he was let out of prison which means it happened on US soil and not Alamainia. Cat adds that Gwen laid it all out how they used Dimitri’s money to partially fund EJ’s purchase of the hospital and get the patent for Versavix to develop Dr. Rolf’s miracle drug. Rafe acknowledges that would’ve made them billionaires. Rafe declares this is the piece of the puzzle they have been looking for. Cat says that Gwen is the identity of EJ’s silent partner, so they’ve got it. They congratulate each other. Cat says she has let Andrew know and that their next step is finding Dimitri because he left town, vowing to find evidence that Gwen was behind his kidnapping, so they need to see if he found it and if any of it points to EJ as well. Rafe agrees and says he will continue digging for information on Gwen. Cat says she will head to the hospital to look around. Rafe compliments Cat on her good work as she exits.

Philip comes across Stephanie in the town square. She invites him to join her table and thanks him for agreeing to help with Joy. Philip says no problem and that she hasn’t asked for any help yet. Stephanie hopes she will so she doesn’t rely on Alex so much, but warns that Joy can be high maintenance so she hopes that doesn’t burden him too much. Philip assures it will be fine and he will welcome a distraction from the trainwreck of his life. Stephanie asks if he wants to talk about it. Philip hopes she brought tissues since it’s a real tearjerker. Stephanie assumes it’s about Titan’s latest financial disaster and EJ buying it to make it impossible to pay off. Philip confirms that made Titan’s chances nearly nil.

Gabi tells Arianna how happy she is to see her but Ari clarifies that she thought Gabi would be at work and only came to grab a few more things from her room. Arianna asks what Philip was doing there. Gabi explains that he was defending himself because she accused he and Xander of stealing her designs to sell counterfeit Gabi Chic purses online. Arianna admits she didn’t know that was happening and asks if she has proof they are behind it. Gabi complains that she never had problems like this until Titan started shipping for her and that no one else had access to her designs. Arianna points out that she did. Gabi says that has no bearing because she always got whatever items she wanted, like the purse she gave her a few weeks ago that she loved. Arianna says she got a lot of compliments on that, but then reveals that she misplaced it the first day she had it which shocks Gabi.

At the Kiriakis Mansion, Alex thanks Justin for taking care of the paper work so quickly. Justin says anything for his granddaughter. Joy then arrives with Kelsey. Justin greets them and presents the amended birth certificate, officially listing Alex as the father of Kelsey Adrienne Kiriakis. Joy calls it officially Kelsey’s new name. Justin adds that he also has the custody papers with the terms they agreed to, including Alex’s open visitation and child support continuing as is which they both agree on. Justin adds that he amended Alex’s will along with the family trust, so Kelsey will be fully provided for. Justin brings up needing to nail down an advance directive along with a will and trust in Joy’s name. Joy says she doesn’t really have anything to leave anybody. Justin says the important thing is that they need to designate who will have custody of Kelsey if one of them dies or is incapacitated. Justin says standard language is that Kelsey would remain with the surviving parent which Joy declares that she is not okay with, because she doesn’t want Stephanie raising her child under any circumstances.

Philip tells Stephanie that no matter how hard he plead his case, Gabi refused to believe that he had nothing to do with stealing her designs while Xander swore on his daughter’s life that he had nothing to do with it either. Philip talks about regretting the forged letter for the rest of his life and says he understands why Gabi would be suspicious of him. Philip says he needs to make this right, but he has no idea how he will do that. Philip asks Stephanie for PR on how to convince Gabi that he is honest and the definition of integrity. Stephanie responds that she can’t work miracles.

Marlena finds Cat at the hospital and asks if she has a minute. Cat asks what’s going on. Marlena says it’s about Gwen as she got permission from Leo to discuss this with her. Marlena informs Cat that Leo seems to think Gwen has gone missing and he’s been very concerned, but she apparently denied that she’s ISA and said she couldn’t help him. Marlena points out that both of those things are a lie. Cat calls it hazards of the job and says she should’ve known Leo wouldn’t let it go. Cat assures that she’s on the case. Marlena brings up Gwen’s letter that incriminated EJ which somehow went missing after Cat learned about it. Marlena then asks if Cat is the person who disappeared it.

Leo runs in to Gus in the town square and says he has no time to chat. Gus asks where he’s going. Leo responds that he’s going to find Gwen, who he may lay down his life for.

Alex questions why Joy would even say that, insisting that Stephanie is not a danger to Kelsey. Joy brings up Stephanie shooting at her, so she does believe her to be a danger to her daughter. Joy wants it added to the custody agreement that Alex’s visitation is contingent on Stephanie not being around. Alex refuses to sign that and says he will not agree to separating Stephanie and Kelsey for the next 18 years. Justin suggests coming up with a compromise but they say they won’t. Joy declares that she’s not signing anything unless that condition is written in to the agreement while Alex says he’s not signing if it is.

Stephanie tells Philip that she can’t work miracles but can offer a little guidance. Stephanie tells him the most important thing is to be honest and transparent with Gabi and not at all defensive. Philip assures that he was honest and transparent, but maybe a little defensive since he was being falsely accused. Stephanie asks if his defending was done angrily or kindly and calmly. Philip responds that he was vulnerable, kind, and calm some of the time but Gabi still looked at him like a liar. Stephanie says she can relate since she recently offered some apologizes that have fallen on deaf ears, so she knows what he’s going through and that it’s tough. Philip argues that she has time to fix things with Joy while he doesn’t have that with Gabi because the clock is ticking on the loan payment due date and the window is closing.

Gabi questions why Arianna didn’t tell her that she misplaced her purse. Ari explains that she thought she left at her desk but it wasn’t there and then she found it in the break room and everything was still in it. Gabi argues that she’s not supposed to let those prototypes out of sight. Arianna says she usually locks it away and thought she’d only be gone a couple minutes. Gabi doesn’t know what to think and realizes maybe it wasn’t Xander or Philip who stole her designs.

Cat tells Marlena that she can’t discuss an ongoing investigation with her. Marlena suspects Cat is developing deep feelings for EJ and warns that if those feelings are going to jeopardize the investigation, she will have to talk to Andrew. Cat says she understands but reveals that she already turned the letter over to Rafe and Andrew, so she can assure that this is not a matter where they should involve Leo Stark. Marlena tells her that ship has sailed.

Gus questions Gwen missing. Leo declares that he’s going to find her and tells Gus to tell Javi that he says goodbye and if he never sees him again, that he will always love him. Leo then walks away.

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Days Update Friday, July 24, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

At the Kiriakis Mansion, Xander and Sarah talk about Victoria growing up and eventually getting older until Sarah gets a text from Maggie, telling her that her daughter Melissa had a setback after surgery so she has to stay there with her longer. Xander says he’s sorry Maggie isn’t there for her and he knows he’s no substitute, but he’s there for her if she will let him be.

Leo tries knocking on Gwen’s door again at the Salem Inn, while leaving her another voicemail. Leo wonders if something happened with the sale of the hospital or with EJ. Leo says he knows he’s supposed to wait to hear from her attorney before flipping the switch if something happened to her and then wonders how to know if something happened or if he would then move to the top of EJ’s hit list. Leo then tells himself to do it for Gwen.

Cat gets a call from Andrew and asks if there’s any news on Gwen. Andrew responds that he checked her phone and there’s no activity since yesterday morning.

Steve and Kayla have breakfast at the Brady Pub where Steve asks Kayla what’s bothering her. Kayla tells him that Gwen hasn’t gotten back to her, so she’s worried that she doesn’t want to buy the hospital after all which means EJ has 90 days to find a new buyer or the state will take control of it and it would be terrible. Kayla says finding a new buyer would be challenging. Steve says that if Gwen is missing, the odds are pretty damn good that EJ is behind it.

Johnny goes to the DiMera Mansion and confronts EJ, questioning how he could sink this low.

Housekeeping enters Gwen’s room at the Salem Inn which allows Leo to come in after and see that Gwen is not inside. Leo tells the maid that Gwen said he could use her hair gel. Leo comments on Gwen’s bed being unused and guesses that means she didn’t come home last night. Leo tells the maid that he will just grab the hair gel and be on his way, so she exits. Leo then finds the card to Gwen’s lawyer CJ Richardson.

Kayla tells Steve that Gwen was so excited about buying the hospital so it doesn’t make sense for her to ghost her like this. Steve tells her that if she doesn’t hear from Gwen today, he’ll have Shane track her phone. Brady arrives and greets them. Kayla says she has to get to the hospital and exits. Brady tells Steve that he got his message and asks what’s going on. Steve thinks he got something to link the Coriseal deaths directly to EJ DiMera.

EJ guesses this has to do with Holly. Johnny confirms that he just saw Holly at the hospital and she’s a wreck, going over how they found pills in her bag and now everyone’s going to think she relapsed. EJ questions what Johnny is accusing him of. Johnny asks if EJ planted the drugs in Holly’s bag.

Sarah tells Xander that she is really thankful for all of his support, especially with her mom not being there. Sarah mentions that she hates keeping secrets but she hasn’t told Maggie that they could lose Titan and the whole estate since she’s dealing with Melissa and the whole Holly crisis. Xander assures that he and Philip will handle the mess at Titan. Sarah says she promised Maggie that she would get Holly to a meeting but questions how to do that if Holly won’t even let her in her room.

Leo runs in to Cat in the town square and says it must be fate because she’s just the person he needs to talk to. Leo explains to Cat that Gwen set up a dead man’s switch with a letter that will take down EJ if something happened to her. Leo adds that it’s only been 24 hours and he’s supposed to wait for the lawyer to give him the letter but he’s wondering if he should pull the switch now and storm in to the lawyer’s office for the letter, unless Cat might be willing to help him. Cat asks why she would be able to help. Leo says if she is ISA, maybe she could look in to this for him.

Xander knows how hard it must be on Sarah for Holly to be swearing she never took pills and being angry at her for not believing her. Sarah says she wants to believe Holly but questions how the pills got in her bag. Xander says he’s not going to let this go as it feels like something bigger is at play. Xander believes EJ dumped the tainted Coriseal on Smith Island but it doesn’t add up with the pills in Holly’s bag. Xander declares it has to all be connected and he’s going to get to the bottom of it.

Steve talks to Brady about looking at this from another angle since all of their leads went cold. Steve explains that he visited local pharmacists who do business with DiMera and they all told him that DiMera cut off their supply of Coriseal about two years ago right around the time of those deaths. Steve declares that it’s likely that DiMera Pharmaceuticals cranked out a bad batch, got rid of them, and buried the evidence as deep as they could.

Johnny demands EJ tell him the truth. EJ confirms that he planted the pills in Holly’s bag to throw Sarah and the others off the trail as it was the only way he could protect DiMera. Johnny says he can’t believe him as he thought he cared about Holly. EJ responds that he does, but sometimes tough decisions have to be made. EJ states that he did what he had to do for the company and for the family. Johnny remarks that DiMera survives while Holly’s life is ruined. EJ disagrees that it’s ruined as she can go to rehab. Johnny complains that she doesn’t need rehab. EJ asks if Johnny would’ve preferred their family lose everything which includes Chanel and their children. Johnny says he gets that and the last thing they need is another DiMera-Kiriakis war. Johnny clarifies that he doesn’t have a problem with EJ’s goals, but his methods that he despises and make him ashamed. EJ says he’s sorry to hear that, but since they do share goals, he hopes he’s still with him. Johnny asks what choice he has and walks out.

Cat claims to Leo that she’s not ISA. Leo understands she can’t admit it but he has to do anything he can to help Gwen and maybe stop EJ from killing him in the process. Cat tells Leo that she won’t say a word to EJ. Leo wonders if he should just take this to the police, but doubts they’ll do anything when it hasn’t been a day. Leo thanks Cat for letting him rant and says she’s good people. Cat tells him to take care and she hopes Gwen shows up soon as Leo walks away.

Brady and Steve talk about DiMera Pharmaceuticals find arsenic in Coriseal and instead of alerting anyone, they just bury it and restart production like nothing ever happened. Steve bets they thought they got away with it until Brady and Sarah started looking into it.

Sarah tells Xander to be careful about getting to the bottom of it since they are talking about EJ DiMera. Xander assures that he can handle EJ. Sarah points out that EJ just came after their entire family because of Xander going after Johnny, so escalating it could make things worse. Xander feels it can’t get any worse while Sarah points out that something could happen to him and she couldn’t stand that, for Victoria’s sake and her sake.

EJ goes to Melinda Trask’s office and says he’s there on behalf of Holly Jonas since Melinda is representing Amy Choi. EJ orders Melinda to drop the case or he will file a countersuit. EJ argues that Sophia tried to murder Johnny and he can prove it, adding that he can also prove Amy was responsible for Sophia’s death, not Holly. EJ argues that Sophia was mentally ill and her mother didn’t get her the help she needed. EJ warns that neither of them want to fight him on this. Melinda agrees to relay her message to her client. EJ warns her to convince Amy to back off or there will be hell to pay. Leo arrives and tells EJ it’s good to see him. EJ walks out as Leo complains about him being rude. Melinda asks what Leo wants. Leo informs her that Gwen is missing. Melinda asks why she should care. Leo explains that her lawyer is CJ Richardson, who works for Melinda. Melinda informs Leo that CJ is on vacation on a secluded resort in Fiji. Leo tells Melinda that she needs to help him then. Melinda argues that she’s not Gwen’s lawyer. Leo brings up their past working together and asks Melinda to help him bring down EJ before anyone else gets hurt.

Sarah goes to the hospital and tells Kayla that Holly wants another doctor because she doesn’t want her around anymore. Kayla says she’s sorry. Sarah is sure they’ll get through it at some point when Holly realizes she loves her and is on her side. Sarah comments on Holly’s labs looking great and gaining strength, so she should be discharged in the next couple of days. Brady and Steve then arrive. Steve announces they think they have something as Brady reveals Steve found something that proves their theory that Coriseal was contaminated.

At the DiMera Enterprises office, Johnny kicks a chair in frustration as Xander enters and asks if everything is alright. Johnny questions why he cares. Xander feels EJ has put him in a very difficult position, so he’s here to help.

EJ runs in to Cat in the town square. Cat says she was just thinking about him and asks about the sale of the hospital. EJ responds that Gwen has apparently vanished off the face of the earth. Cat asks if that’s just unbelievable good fortune or convenient timing. EJ questions if she would be accusing him of something.

Xander understands it might be difficult for Johnny to trust him after the lawsuit. Johnny calls it impossible. Xander points out that Johnny accepted his apology. Johnny says that doesn’t mean he trusts him and if he’s hear for help on his loan that EJ bought, he can forget about it. Xander says it’s not that and brings up Brady and Steve coming to see him about the missing Coriseal. Xander reveals he knows Johnny was lying when he told him there was none missing.

Brady tells Sarah and Kayla that it all adds up that DiMera produced a bad batch of drugs, ignored that it was out there, and got rid of the rest. Steve says is lines up with the timing and missing records while Sarah says they don’t have any evidence since the well was decontaminated, Destiny was cremated, and they can’t prove that Holly could’ve accidentally ingested the drug. Kayla questions the chances the Coriseal would’ve been the same one from a years ago. Steve says that brings them back to the well and EJ.

Cat tells EJ that she never meant to imply that he had something to do with Gwen’s disappearance and apologizes if it came out that way. EJ apologizes for jumping to that conclusion and says he shouldn’t have lashed out at her, especially because he doesn’t know what he would do if he lost her and she wasn’t by his side. Cat tells EJ that he has her.

Melinda tells Leo that she has tangled with EJ a few times and he is formidable, but he did just threaten her, so for old time sake, she will look. Melinda mentions covering CJ’s cases while he’s gone and pulls up Gwen’s file. Melinda sees there’s a folder called “For Leo Stark”. Leo explains that he promised Gwen that he would go after EJ with whatever is in it if anything happened to her. Leo declares that he cannot be a coward and he has to do it for Gwen, so he needs that letter.

Brady asks Sarah how she’s doing. Sarah admits she’s not great as she doesn’t know what to believe. Brady realizes now he was quick to assume Holly had relapsed, but he knows how easily addicts can lie. Brady says if Holly is using again, she will need their help while Sarah states that if Holly is telling the truth, she made a major mistake.

Johnny tells Xander that he wasn’t lying. Xander says he’s not here to give him a hard time, but he knows Johnny cares about Holly and they all need the truth. Xander says if Holly is using again, she needs to be in treatment, but if she’s not, they need an explanation for the pills. Johnny tells Xander to get out. Xander says if EJ is forcing him to do something, he can help him. Xander gives his word that Johnny can trust that it stays between them and guesses he knows something. Johnny denies it. Xander brings up that Holly swears that the pills are not hers and he believes her. Xander asks if Johnny believes her. Xander thinks back to watching Kayla arguing with EJ at the hospital and then to bringing Holly’s bag to the hospital. Xander then remembers setting the bag aside on the hospital counter while showing Sarah a video and walking away, leaving the bag behind. Xander comes to the realization about the bag and tells Johnny he has to go as he runs out of the office.

Steve gets a text from Shane, informing him that Gwen’s phone hasn’t been active in over 24 hours and can’t be located so he’ll get right on it. Steve notes that Shawn can get the police to run a wellness check, so they will start with that.

Melinda opens Gwen’s document for Leo, but is shocked to find that it is blank.

Cat sits in her room on her laptop, where she has downloaded and deleted Gwen’s “For Leo Stark” folder. Cat wonders EJ had done now.

EJ looks up at the portrait of Stefano and says that he taught him to survive, not to feel. EJ thinks back to Johnny arguing with him about arsenic and then to Xander and Sarah confronting him at the hospital and then to Kayla informing him that the state board was revoking his ownership of the hospital. EJ states that Lexie is dying and brings up Kristen. EJ then calls Rita and says he has enough to deal with without having to worry that Kristen is a threat to his children, so he wants her gone. EJ hangs up and stares up at the portrait of Stefano.

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Days Update Thursday, July 23, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Marlena and Brady surprise Rachel at Bayview to announce that she’s coming home as they all excitedly hug.

Kristen goes to Abe and Lexie’s where she finds Lexie asleep on the couch.

Belle goes to Small Bar where she finds Stephanie seated at the bar. Belle guesses Stephanie is meeting Alex there while she is meeting Chad. Belle asks Stephanie how things are going. Stephanie responds that Alex spent the night at the Salem Inn with Joy, playing nurse maid, and now he’s late meeting her because he went back there to check on her, so they can revisit that question if and when he finally shows up.

Alex walks through the town square on the phone with Philip, who informs him that Gabi’s not delivering with her money. Alex says he doesn’t trust Philip to handle this and advises him to sell the house to save the company or else they will lose it all. Alex hangs up as Chad approaches and asks if everything’s alright. Alex asks what he thinks.

Kristen is relieved as she wakes up Lexie. Lexie explains that she was just taking a nap and having a nice dream of having a picnic with Abe and Theo. Kristen asks if anyone else is home. Lexie says everyone is out, so Kristen says that’s good because they have an emergency on their hands. Lexie questions what kind of emergency they are talking about. Kristen informs her that she got in touch with one of her contacts on the island that EJ planned to exile her to and found out that EJ intends to ship her there tomorrow night. Kristen tells Lexie that they have to be ready.

Chad assumes Alex’s call was about EJ buying out Titan’s loan and putting unfavorable terms on it. Chad says he’s not surprised after the way Xander and Kate messed with Johnny, so they had to expect retaliation. Alex assures that he told them what a mistake that was. Alex tells Chad that if they don’t find a way to stop this whole family feud soon, it’s going to take them all down.

Stephanie tells Belle that she’s not saying the car accident wasn’t traumatic, but Joy and Kelsey are okay yet Joy hasn’t stopped Alex every five minutes with one problem after another. Belle relates to what happened with Shawn and Jan Spears, so she understands when someone you hate is the mother of your husband’s baby. Belle adds that Joy is no Jan Spears, but Alex and Shawn are both really nice guys who didn’t set out to hurt or mislead them. Belle says she and Shawn ended up divorced, but it didn’t happen the way Jan wanted, but because she pushed Shawn away by being jealous and paranoid. Stephanie brings up that this morning, Alex told her that Joy doesn’t have the power to pull him away from her and that the biggest threat they face is her pushing him away. Belle wishes someone told her that before it was too late.

Shawn and Jada go to the Brady Pub. Jada encourages Shawn for working his ass off to get stronger than he was before the shooting. Shawn wants Jada to put him back on active duty.

Rachel can’t believe she finally gets to go home. Brady says he has a little bit of paperwork to fill out while Marlena informs Rachel that if all goes well, she will be home by tomorrow. Rachel realizes she needs to start packing. Brady says the staff will help her and adds that Kristen will be there soon. Rachel exclaims that she can’t wait to be back in her own room as she hugs Brady.

Alex tells Chad that the Kiriakis-DiMera feud is why Owen Kent came back in to Stephanie’s life and was obsessed with her. Alex adds that Stephanie may have said she wouldn’t be a victim anymore but those feelings don’t go away and it didn’t help that they found out he had a kid. Alex says he’s trying to ensure that Stephanie is his priority, but he’s not sure that will be enough. Chad talks about seeing how Alex stood by and supported Stephanie. Chad thinks they are good together and that they will survive this. Alex says he appreciates that. Chad asks how fatherhood is treating him. Alex responds that Kelsey is pretty amazing. Chad welcomes Alex to being a girl dad and says that Stephanie was good with his kids, so he’s sure she will be with his. Alex notes that she’s trying to be while Chad calls it an adjustment and knows it has to be tough for Stephanie. Chad encourages Alex to give her time and she’ll get there.

Belle tells Stephanie that she’s not saying this to worry her and that what happened with her and Shawn was over a lot more than a baby. Belle believes Alex and Stephanie can make it through this. Belle declares that she’s not looking back anymore and for the first time in a long time, she and Shawn are both hopeful about the future.

Jada reminds Shawn that he has not been medically cleared by his doctor to return to active duty. Shawn is hopeful of his upcoming appointment, which Jada says they will revisit this topic after that. Shawn asks if there’s any other reason she wouldn’t want him returning to active duty. Jada admits that it’s silly, but that him getting a clean bill of health means he wouldn’t have an excuse to stay with her anymore.

Kristen reiterates to Lexie that the island staff was told to expect a delivery of a DiMera sister tomorrow morning, but EJ won’t be getting the sister he was expecting. Lexie thought they had more time. Kristen says if Lexie isn’t ready to leave, they can come up with an other plan as she won’t take away any more time than she’s willing to give.

Chad and Alex join Belle and Stephanie at Small Bar. Stephanie asks Chad about his kids. He says they are enjoying their summer with Jack and Jennifer, adding that he does miss them but he’s glad to have more free time. Chad and Belle then go to their table where Chad surprises Belle with two first class tickets to Milan, Italy. Belle thanks him but says she thought they were going to Rome.

Marlena says she has to go but tells Rachel how proud she is of her hard work to get better. Marlena tells Rachel that she will visit her at home as soon as she’s settled in as she then exits. Rachel talks to Brady about being excited to see her snake. Brady talks about Tate’s excitement and says that Tate is living at home, so it will be the three of them together again. Brady tells Rachel that Tate has missed her but no one has missed her more than him as he’s so excited to have his little girl home. Brady hugs Rachel and says he’s proud of her.

Shawn tells Jada that she’s right that now that he’s recovered and doesn’t need help, he doesn’t have an excuse to stay with her but he’s a grown man who makes his own choices, so he doesn’t need an excuse other than that he very much wants to stay with her, assuming she’s okay with that. Jada responds that she’s more than okay with that.

Lexie appreciates Kristen giving her an out, but she told her that she would stand in for her on the island so she’s not backing out now. Kristen calls her really brave while Lexie suggests she’s cowardly for not wanting Abe and Theo to suffer over her death again. Lexie asks if Kristen has figured out how they are going to switch places after she’s kidnapped. Kristen says she’s working on it, but there’s not much she can do until she is grabbed and EJ has his people watching her every move. Kristen gives Lexie a geo locator bracelet and says once she’s grabbed, she will activate it, so that Lexie will know where to find her. Lexie declares that it will then be time to say goodbye to this life again. Kristen can’t imagine how difficult this is for her and asks if there’s anything she can do before they part ways. Lexie says she just has to figure out how to say her goodbyes in her own way. Kristen understands as she has some difficult goodbyes ahead herself.

Shawn asks Jada if she’s given any thought to giving him a partner. Jada says they haven’t replaced JJ yet, but she’s working on it. Jada talks about holding any applicants to a very high standard.

Abe goes home to Lexie and asks if she’s writing a letter. Lexie claims it’s just some thank you notes for the treatment she’s been given and asks where he went off to. Abe informs her that he has a surprise for her.

Chad tells Belle that the Lire clue had the opera house that is located in Milan, so he booked them a tour of it. Belle explains that her research of the Verdi clue led to Rome, so Chad guesses they’ll just have to do both. Chad says they’ll start in Milan and end up in Rome as no matter where they go or what they find, they will have an amazing Italian adventure. Alex and Stephanie sit at their table as Stephanie asks about Joy and Kelsey. Alex says Joy is better and hopefully will able to get back to the Pub tomorrow while Kelsey is great. Stephanie knows she hasn’t always shown it, but she wants him to know that she’s so proud of him for how he’s stepped up as a father. Alex says he’s doing the best he can. Stephanie encourages that he’s doing great and is totally committed to being there for Kelsey which proves he’s a good man and that she’s very lucky to be married to him.

Brady and Rachel talk about Rachel’s first meal when she gets home as Kristen arrives and hugs Rachel, saying she’s so sorry she’s late. Rachel exclaims that she’s going home which Kristen calls the best news ever. Rachel then questions why Kristen is sad.

Abe surprises Lexie with their wedding rings, revealing that he had them in the safety deposit box at the bank and hoped one day Theo would use them. Lexie can’t believe he kept them all this time. Abe assures that his love for her would never change, no matter who else was in his life. Abe puts her ring on her finger. Lexie says this is too much while Abe wondered if it was enough because he could never fully tell her how much she means to him. Abe calls Lexie a miracle and his angel on Earth. Abe adds that now that her death certificate has been rescinded and they are married again, he figured they should renew their vows, so he recites them.

Alex tells Stephanie how much it means for him to know that she’s in his corner with everything going on. Stephanie asks if there’s any developments with Titan. Alex says the clock is still running on the loan and Philip has refused to consider selling the mansion. Alex complains that they have poured everything in to the company but it never occurred to him that it might not work. Stephanie says it’s okay but Alex disagrees, questioning how he can be the father he needs to be if he can’t support Kelsey. Alex worries that with the way things are going, they could lose everything.

Chad and Belle walk through the town square. Chad asks if Belle has heard anything from Paul to help their investigation. Belle says Paul is off the grid on an assignment so they will be on their own. Chad says it will just be them then and says he’s not spreading the word about their trip since whoever is dropping clues is still out there. Belle adds that she won’t be telling Marlena so she doesn’t worry her as they then see Marlena walking by.

Kristen tells Rachel that she’s not sad and that she’s happy that Rachel finally gets to come home. Kristen talks about all the time they spent apart and time that was lost thanks to EJ but they don’t need to talk about that. Kristen tells Rachel that she’s missed her so much while Rachel encourages that they have forever now.

Lexie recites her vows to Abe but starts crying that she’s just so emotional. Abe points out that even death couldn’t keep them apart or stop their love. Abe says here’s to them and all the years they had, all the years they lost, and all the years to come as they hug.

Rachel goes to collect some of her artwork. Kristen suggests framing some of it. Brady wants to make sure there’s no reason to be worried about Rachel’s safety around EJ. Kristen assures that she’s safe and that everything is taken care of. Kristen thanks Brady for being an amazing father and says that Rachel will now be relying on him more than ever. Brady assures he’ll always be there for her. Kristen knows she has spent years making things difficult between them and that they’ve hurt each other and over and over. Kristen cries that she just wants him to know that she’s really sorry. Brady points out that they are here now and working together for Rachel’s sake. Kristen says in spite of those difficult times, she’s always known he’s a good man and a great father. Kristen thanks Brady and cries that their little girl is the best thing to ever happen to her and without Brady, there would be no her.

Stephanie thanks Alex for sharing all of that with her. Alex complains that the timing could not be worse. Stephanie talks about Alex being so worried about her and when she was spinning out after the kidnapping, he never stopped fighting for them. Stephanie says with everything going on with Kelsey and Joy, she sees how hard he’s working to make it okay for her too, so now is the time to let her help him. Stephanie brings up still having her company and the royalties from her book. Alex feels he shouldn’t be relying on her. Stephanie reminds him that they are a team. Alex asks about Kelsey. Stephanie says she’s her family too, so they won’t let her down and promises they will be okay.

Shawn asks Jada how Stephanie is doing. Jada says that she said she’s okay but she always says that. Jada feels she should be more present for Stephanie. Shawn points out that Stephanie has a lot of people to lean on. Jada says she’s Stephanie’s best friend and feels she should be there. Jada worries that she’s been a bit distracted while Shawn’s been staying with her. Shawn says he’s grateful for Jada’s help and that he wouldn’t have recovered as quick as he did without her, but he’s good now, so if she needs to be with Stephanie, she should do that because he’s not going anywhere.

Marlena greets Chad and Belle, who ask where she’s headed. Marlena says the more important question is where she’s been and she’s just been to Bayview. Marlena announces Rachel is being released tomorrow morning. Belle lets it slip that they will get to see her before they leave. Marlena questions where they are going. Belle informs her that she and Chad are planning some time away. Marlena asks where they are heading. Chad informs her they are going to Italy. Marlena thought they meant just like a weekend away and asks why Italy. Belle praises Italy as a magical country and asks why not Italy.

Abe suggests to Lexie that they should take a second honeymoon in New York. Lexie wishes she could but says she made a reservation to visit her mother and she leaves tomorrow night. Abe asks if she’s sure he can’t talk her in to going with her as he would love to see Celeste. Lexie reminds him that they talked about this. Abe says after so many years apart, he hates not having her near me and he will miss her every second she’s gone. Lexie cries that she will miss him even more as they hug.

Brady tells Kristen that he doesn’t know what to say. Rachel comes back in with her things packed. Kristen says she has to take care of some things and tells Rachel to get as much sleep as she can tonight so she is rested for her homecoming tomorrow. Rachel says she will see her tomorrow then as Kristen hugs her. Kristen tells Rachel that she will see her soon and to never forget that nothing is more precious than her as Brady looks on concerned. Kristen wants Rachel’s life to be bright, beautiful, and full of love as she holds her.

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BTG Short Recap Wednesday, August 12, 2026

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Recap written by Michele & Cheryl

Vanessa talked to Joey about playing tennis with Heather. Joey told her that Heather didn’t play tennis. Their conversation was cut short when they heard Andre and Dani have a heated conversation about her attentiveness towards Bill. Ted called Andre so he cut the conversation short. Dani tried to convince Vanessa and Joey that things couldn’t be better between them. After Joey left, Vanessa wanted to talk to Dani about her reaction to Bill almost dying. She wanted Dani to realize that she still loved Bill. Dani said she loved Andre too. She said she wanted to be with Andre. Vanessa felt like she was trying to convince herself that she wanted him. Dani knew she had to put Andre first and get Bill out of her system.

Joey went to see Bill at the hospital. He told him that he should go to another hospital if they couldn’t find out what was wrong with him. After his visit with Bill, Joey ran into Hayley. He warned her that he was watching her. Tomas and Naomi go at it in Bill’s office again. She put him in his place when he accused her of taking over the company. After their conversation, Naomi thanked Caroline for saving her father’s life. She asked Caroline what she thought about Tomas. Caroline admitted that she didn’t trust him.

 

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BTG Short Recap Tuesday, August 11, 2026

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

Hayley told Randy what was going on with Bill. While the Duprees were gathered together, Hayley felt like she didn’t belong. Leslie showed up and wanted to be there for Hayley. She told Hayley that she knew what it was like being on the outside of a powerful family. The doctor showed up and said Bill had a cardiac arrest instead of a heart attack and was on a long road to recovery. Hayley wanted the Duprees to leave, but Dani refused to leave. Hayley said they all wanted Bill to die if it meant she was out of their lives. Dani ripped into Hayley. Nicole showed up and kept the situation from getting worse.

Ashley said Bill was awake and wanted to see Dani. Dani went to see Bill. He apologized to her and said he should have apologized more. While they were talking, Hayley walked in on them. Bill said he didn’t remember what happened. Kial went to the hospital with Nicole. Anita told Nicole that she approved of her choice. Joey overheard part of Randy’s conversation with Hayley and wanted to know what was going on. Randy lied to him about the conversation. Vernon called Joey to ask him about Hayley and Randy. Joey said Hayley and Randy were friends but the situation didn’t involve him.

 

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, August 11, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Devlin St. John arrived into Paulina’s office and informed her that he was the chief water inspector. He let her know about the complaints he was getting about the water on Smith Island. Paulina thought the problem was solved. She didn’t have any more worries about it, but Devlin wasn’t so sure about that. After his meeting with Paulina, he saw Julie. He went to the house to call her out for the Horton well at Smith Island. Devlin felt like she interfered with their investigation so they couldn’t figure out what happened to the water on the island. Julie told him that she wanted to make sure that no one died. He questioned her and asked if she noticed any suspicious behavior in the area. She didn’t notice anything. He thanked her for her time. Cat was working when Chad arrived at the DiMera mansion. Chad wanted to see EJ because Kristen was missing. Brady and Marlena felt like EJ had something to do with it. Chad wanted a mask so he could talk to EJ. He warned her to be careful around EJ. EJ was asleep so Chad didn’t get to talk to him. Devlin arrived at the DiMera mansion and wanted to see EJ whether he was asleep or not. Rita took him upstairs to see EJ. Devlin had questions for EJ.

Belle and Marlena met at the pub. They talked about Kristen being gone. Marlena wasn’t sure if something was wrong, but they wanted to focus on Rachel. Belle told her that Chad couldn’t go to Italy. She thought about going by herself. Marlena would rather Paul handle it. Belle thought she could handle it. She asked Marlena to go with her if she didn’t think she could go alone. Marlena wanted her to wait for Chad, and she agreed. Dimitri thought he had Leo and Gwen locked away safely when Rafe arrived with one of Dimitri’s goons with a gun on him. Rafe wasn’t there to rescue anyone. He wanted a statement from Dimitri since he found Gwen’s letter and knew that she and EJ kidnapped him. Dimitri didn’t care about the letter. He wasn’t going back to Salem or giving a statement. Rafe gave him another alternative. He could keep Gwen kidnapped forever or send her and EJ to jail forever. Celeste called Theo and let him know that Lexie didn’t visit her. Theo lied when Abe walked in the room. He said Lani wished him a happy birthday. Later Theo wanted to talk to Kayla, but she was in surgery so he spoke to Marlena. He told her everything that was going on. Theo explained that his mother was sick again. He wanted to know if Marlena knew anything about it. Marlena froze as Cat walked in behind her. She told Leo that she didn’t know where Lexie was.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, August 12, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Brady wanted to take Rachel school shopping, but she wasn’t up to it since her mother was gone. He tried to tell her that Kristen left for her, but it didn’t do any good. Rachel said she loved her mother but it didn’t mean she trusted her or wanted to be like her. She said something bad always happened when her mother was around. Rachel thought her life would be better without her. Brady said she wasn’t a bad person for saying that. He thought some time apart might have been a good thing. Devlin talked to EJ about the coriseal cover up. EJ said he didn’t know anything about it. Devlin said he went to Smith Island and found an excavation that confirmed what he was told. While they were talking, Devlin said he wasn’t interested in the legalities. He said he was cleaning up EJ’s mess before someone else died. Devlin said the arsenic could have seeped into the water and all it would take would be one storm that could put it in the Salem River. He said everyone in Salem drank from it. Devlin said the situation was serious. He was excited to be the hero which was why he hadn’t said anything. Devlin said the coriseal mess would cost millions. He told EJ to pay to have it fix or he would expose him to the world. Devlin gave him a list of things he had to pay for.

Sarah walked in on Xander planning to see the estate. Xander said they were in the mess because of EJ. He said he told Maggie about it already. Xander was upset about what was happening. When Sarah tried to comfort him, he pulled away from her. He said he didn’t deserve comfort. Sarah said there was enough blame to go around. She said if she told him what Philip did sooner, Tony wouldn’t have had the leverage to get DiMera back. While they were talking, Sarah said she couldn’t imagine anyone else living in the mansion. Xander said he hadn’t told Brady yet. He thought it would be better coming from her. Sarah left to tell him. Philip texted Gabi to come to the office because he found a way to save Titan. His solution was a poker game. He told her he was good at it and had a game for next week. Gabi didn’t think it was a good idea. Philip said there was a multi-million dollar buy-in to get the top prize. He needed her to give him the money. Gabi said that would be her entire inheritance. Philip tried to convince her that he was a good poker player. EJ sent Rita a message to meet him and Devlin. Before Devlin left, EJ grabbed him from behind. Rita stabbed him with a syringe.

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Days Short Recap Monday, August 10, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Stephanie told Alex that he wasn’t moving in Joy’s room while Joy was in the hospital. She told him she would move out since it was his apartment. Alex agreed to it for Kelsey’s sake. Chanel and Alex ran into each other while they were pushing their kids through the town square. Alex told her what was going on with Joy. Chanel sarcastically told him she was sorry to hear what Joy was going through. She offered to help him take care of Kelsey. While they were talking, she warned him not to let Joy mess up his marriage the way she did hers. Lani went to see Jada at the police station to tell her about Lexie. Jada didn’t think it was a police matter, but she thought it was enough for her to check on Lexie. Later on, Jada went home. Stephanie came over to talk to her about what was going on. Jada told Stephanie to move in with her. Stephanie agreed to stay with her and thought it would help her save her marriage.

At DiMera Enterprises, Theo left a voicemail for Lexie when Johnny came in. He told Johnny that he didn’t think Lexie was in South Africa because there wasn’t an international dial tone when he called. When Theo called Celeste, there was an international dial tone. Lani showed up to tell Theo that there was no record of Lexie boarding a commercial flight. They talked about Leo, Gwen, and Kristen being missing. Johnny wanted to talk to EJ about it. Lani thought there was a problem with the drug and that Lexie’s health was failing. She wanted Theo to focus on getting Lexie home. EJ had a coughing attack when Cat showed up with paperwork on the state’s case against him. He said he didn’t have any energy since he had a cold. Cat asked him what was going on because she saw the panel closing last night. EJ tried to dodge her question with a coughing attack, but she kept pressing the issue. Johnny showed up and asked Cat if he could be alone with his father. He asked EJ about Lexie’s disappearance. EJ told him that Lexie was dying and was in the tunnels. Stephanie talked to Jada about Alex choosing Kelsey if he had to choose between them. EJ said Lexie couldn’t tell anyone what she knew. Johnny was furious with him for saying that and was about to leave. EJ stopped him from leaving and said he made a promise to Lexie. When Johnny left, Cat came back and noticed that EJ had a fever. She helped him get into bed. Johnny went back to Theo and Lani, but he didn’t tell them what EJ told him.

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BTG Short Recap Monday, August 10, 2026

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Recap written by Michele & Cheryl

Caroline called 9-1-1 for help with Bill. Darlene talked her through CPR so she could help Bill. The EMTs arrived to help Bill. Dani talked to Naomi and Chelsea and wanted to know if she was too involved in their lives. She also wanted to know if she was too involved in Hayley’s marriage. They were honest and said that she was, but they wouldn’t have it any other way. While they were talking, Jacob called Naomi to tell her what happened to Bill. They rushed to the hospital. Bill was having surgery while they rushed to the hospital. Hayley showed up at the hospital pretending to be concerned about Bill. Dani felt like Hayley’s behavior was inappropriate, and they started arguing. Shanice did her best to stop the women from arguing. Dani snapped and said she would always be there for “her” husband. Everyone was surprised by her comment. Later Dani admitted to Anita and Vernon that she was afraid that Bill would die. Hayley told Ashley that she didn’t want Dani allowed in Bill’s room.

Eva continued to push Izaiah away. Izaiah continued to reassure her that he didn’t have a problem with her scar. Eva felt disfigured. He thought she should see a therapist. Izaiah felt like she was trying to make him the bad guy even though he wasn’t one. He walked out of the apartment. Eva thought about their relationship. Izaiah left to get advice about his relationship with Eva. He went back to the apartment to see Eva. She seemed willing to listen to him. Eva kissed him. Joey and Vanessa talked about their plans to meet with Heather for dinner when he got a call that the security cameras were down in the casino. He left to take care of the problem. Heather walked in the room after Joey left. She and Vanessa took shots. Heather let her know that she approved of her. Joey came back and warned her that Heather always had an agenda. He let her know that Heather pretended to drink and remained sober.

 

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GH Short Recap Thursday, July 16, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

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Gio and Trina get an offer to sign a development contract.

Curtis, Isaiah, Stella, and Trina meet the new baby.

Anna is angry with Britt for not telling her that Cassius wasn’t Nathan and she tells Britt that the only good Faison was Nathan.

Josslynn lies to Lisel and tells her that Cassius shot her.

Cody tells James that his Uncle Cassius pretended to be his father Nathan, but James doesn’t believe the news until his oma Lisel tells him the news. James tells Cody that he never wants to see him again.

 

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GH Short Recap Wednesday, July 15, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

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Trina has her showcase and has to sing her songs twice because one of the record executives thinks that Trina is holding back and not showing enough of her talent.

Jordan helps Portia give birth to her baby boy.

Nina and Jack search Wyndamere for his black safe because they have to find it before Drew comes out of his locked-in state. Drew begins to move his hands and arms. Amelia runs into Drew’s room and Wiley goes to get her and tells her she isn’t supposed to be in Drew’s room. Drew waves at Amelia and Wiley and the kids leave the room. Drew is in his room alone. When he slowly says Willow’s name.

Josslynn tells Anna about the cigar illustration and book that Faison and she found at Wyndamere. Josslynn tells Anna that although she can’t prove it; she thinks Ross Cullum caused her mental breakdown. Anna tells Josslynn that since she asked to free Jason and Valentin in exchange for her lying and blaming Cassius for the cold fusion project the WSB will collect on that favor they did for her. Anna tells Josslynn that the WSB will ask her to do something she doesn’t want to do.

 

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GH Short Recap Tuesday, July 14, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Jason decides to take Danny on a trip for a few days so they can sort things out.

Valentin asks Dante to persuade Lulu to let Charlotte live with him. Dante later talks to Elizabeth because he thinks it would be good for Charlotte to live with Valentin. Dante also tells Elizabeth that he is worried that Charlotte is a bad influence on Rocco.

Jack and Nina go to Wyndamere to look for his black safe that has information on Drew that Willow could use for leverage over Drew since he will soon come out of his locked-in syndrome.

Drew knocks over a glass while Kai is visiting with him and blinks to Kai that he doesn’t want Willow to know about it. Willow arrives when she hears a noise and Kai tells Willow he knocked over the glass. Willow figures out that Drew knocked over the glass to signal Kai.

Willow tells Drew not to push her because she won’t lose her children again. Willow remembers that Jack told her that maybe she should kill Drew. Willow tells Drew she sent Scout to live with Alexis because she didn’t want Scout to know that he had regained some of his movement.

Dr. Tristan Roberts arrives in Port Charles to work at Gen1eral Hospital. Tristan argues with Britt because he rented the room that used to be her room above Bobbie’s restaurant.

Jordan goes to Portia’s house to try and make peace and try to resolve things but they end up having an argument and, a few minutes after Jordan leaves, Portia has a contraction.

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Days Update Wednesday, July 22, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Sarah finds Brady at the hospital and tells him how bad she needs a hug as Brady asks what’s wrong. Sarah complains that she hated having to confront Holly about the pills that Tate found in her bag. Brady encourages that she might have prevented Holly from having a full on relapse. Sarah hopes that with some rest, Holly will be more open to her help.

Holly escaped from the hospital and staggers to the town square where she runs in to Gabi. Gabi thought she was still in the hospital. Holly claims she was just discharged and thanks her for the flowers. Gabi asks if she’s sure she is alright. Holly says that she is and that it was nice to see her as she rushes off past her.

Sarah goes to Holly’s hospital room but finds she is gone.

Leo goes to Gwen’s room at the Salem Inn and knocks on the door until Holly comes by and then collapses in Leo’s arms.

Kayla goes to EJ’s office at the hospital and tells Cat that she came to talk to her.

EJ is frustrated at the DiMera Mansion as Rita comes in and asks what’s wrong. EJ complains that he’s going to lose the hospital to Gwen if he doesn’t do something to stop her. Rita then asks if he’s sure he didn’t already do something to stop her.

Leo sits Holly down in the hall of the Salem Inn and asks her what’s going on. Holly responds that she’s fine and just needs a second. Leo notices her hospital ID bracelet and questions if she was officially released. Holly asks Leo to just help her to her room. Leo suggests getting her back to the hospital but Holly says no. Leo asks if there’s anyone he can call for her, like Sarah. Holly pleads with him not to call Sarah and says she just needs a second to rest and she’ll be fine. Leo tells her to stay put and he’ll go get her some water and a cold compress. Leo then walks away while making a call on his phone.

Sarah runs back to Brady in a panic, telling him that Holly is gone and that she took her clothes and left the hospital. Sarah worries about how mad Holly was at her and Tate that she could’ve gone looking to score. Brady tells her not to go there and sends Sarah back to Holly’s room to look for clues to where she could’ve gone while he will begin a search.

Gabi runs in to Xander in the town square. Gabi says she has nothing more to say to him. Xander tells her the truth is that he had nothing to do with what happened at Gabi Chic. Gabi doesn’t believe him and points out that he also denied involvement in setting up Johnny for the lawsuit. Xander tells Gabi this conversation isn’t over as he gets a call from Sarah. Sarah tells Xander that Holly skipped the hospital without being discharged when she wasn’t well enough to go. Xander asks what he can do to help and mentions that he’s in the town square, so Sarah tells him to check the stores and ask if anyone has seen her. Sarah then asks Xander to go back to the Kiriakis Mansion as well. Xander says he will check in with the staff and assures that they will find Holly as he hangs up. Gabi then informs Xander that she just saw Holly a few minutes ago heading in to the Salem Inn, so Xander heads that way.

Rita tells EJ that word on the street is that Gwen is missing and asks if he had a hand in that. EJ responds that he did not touch Gwen. Rita says she has no doubt that he didn’t do it, but that things in his orbit have a way of vanishing with no touch required.

Kayla tells Cat that she’s sure she has heard that the board has voted to remove EJ and accept Gwen’s offer to buy the hospital. Cat says she understands the deal isn’t finalized. Kayla confirms it isn’t but she wants to get a jump on things and talk to her about her job. Kayla brings up that Marlena speaks very highly of Cat and she trusts her instincts, so when EJ leaves, she would like Cat to stay on in her current position as assistant to the owner of the hospital. Kayla says that Gwen will need someone by her side who knows how things operate. Cat responds that she’s flattered but she already has a job lined up.

Sarah returns to Brady and tells him that Holly took all of her belongings and she has Xander searching the town square while she’s going to head home. Brady tells her that he has Tate, Steve, and Shawn all on the lookout. Brady assures Sarah that they will find Holly as she couldn’t have gotten far.

Leo returns to Holly with a bottle of water but she says water is the last thing she needs. Gus then arrives as the EMT to check on Holly. Holly complains that Leo promised he wouldn’t call anyone. Leo says he promised not to call Sarah, so he called 911 and just his luck, here’s Gus. Gus asks Holly what’s wrong. Holly claims nothing and that she’s just tired. Leo explains that she could barely stand up and he couldn’t in good conscience just leave her in the hallway. Gus checks Holly’s pulse and confirms it’s weak. Leo adds that she left the hospital without being discharged. Holly calls him a traitor. Gus thinks it’s best to take her back to the hospital but Holly says she doesn’t want to go back. Leo doesn’t know what’s going on with her but asks her to let them take her back so Sarah can check her out. Xander arrives and finds Holly. Holly is relieved, saying he’s finally someone who will listen to her. Holly tells Xander that Sarah thinks she’s on drugs but she swears she’s not using again. Xander tells her that he believes her and just wants her to be safe. Gus says it’s time to go with the ambulance. Holly repeats that she doesn’t want to go back to the hospital but Xander tells her to trust him and promises she will be okay, so she reluctantly gives in. Gus and Leo help Holly up while Xander agrees to ride in the ambulance with her, so Gus exits with Xander and Holly while Leo remains in the hall.

Sarah complains to Brady that she can’t stand here and do nothing, feeling she has to be out there looking for Holly. Brady promises that she will be best here since she will need to check on Holly if she comes back. Sarah then gets a text from Xander that he found Holly and they are on their way in the ambulance, leaving her and Brady relieved.

Kayla questions Cat already having another job lined up. Cat reveals that if EJ goes, she’s going with him because he offered to keep her on as his personal assistant and she accepted. Kayla calls that a choice. Cat says she knows how most people feel about EJ, but she’s gained a lot of experience and learned a lot working for him. Kayla argues that Cat thinks she knows EJ, but she hasn’t been around him or his family very long while she knows from experience what the DiMeras are capable of. Kayla hopes that Cat and the people she cares about don’t get caught in the crossfire. Cat appreciates her concern and assures that she’s walking in to this with her eyes wide open.

Rita shows EJ the numbers in the worst case scenario of losing the hospital. EJ says he knows losing the hospital means he’ll lose everything. Rita points out that EJ won’t be broke since he’ll have the money from selling the hospital as well as his inheritance, but admits that times are tough. EJ brings up that Stefano taught him the hardest challenges bring forth the sweetest triumph.

Leo comes out of the Salem Inn and runs in to Gabi in the town square. Leo tells her that he has news about the counterfeit purses, but Gabi stops him to ask if he has seen Holly. Leo confirms he just did in the Salem Inn and that she was in terrible shape. Gabi mentions that she saw her too and she looked like she was about to pass out. Gabi asks if Leo helped her. Leo responds that he doesn’t like to throw the word “hero” around, but says Holly is lucky she ran in to him.

Sarah informs Brady that the ambulance arrived and Holly is in stable condition as Brady hugs her. Xander comes over so Sarah says she’s so glad he found Holly and asks how he knew where she was. Xander calls it just right place, right time. Sarah says she will keep them both posted as she goes to the exam room. Xander then tells Brady that Holly told him that Sarah accused her of being on drugs again and asks what that’s about. Brady brings up Xander bringing Holly her bag. Xander confirms that she asked him to and asks what that has to do with anything. Brady then reveals that Tate found pills in her bag. Xander argues that can’t be and questions if Holly would use again.

Sarah joins Gus in Holly’s hospital room. Holly argues that she didn’t overdose and isn’t on drugs. Sarah questions why she left the hospital then. Holly complains that she was tired of being treated like a junkie and she’s not going to stay here and be called a liar, especially by someone who claims to love her.

Rita points out to EJ that at least it seems they have contained the issues with the tainted Coriseal. Rita adds that it couldn’t have been easy using his former stepdaughter for a scapegoat. EJ says he takes no pleasure in making it look like Holly relapsed on drugs, but he had no choice. Rita says she understands and that Julie already had the well decontaminated. EJ says that worked out, so they will have to believe that Holly chose to have the drugs in her system. EJ adds that while they are helping her, he’ll be helping Holly with her Amy Choi lawsuit and the unfortunate fallout from her drug habit. Rita notes that it seems to have worked in throwing focus away from DiMera Pharmaceuticals and Coriseal. EJ says they should be grateful for that because if the truth ever came out, he’d go to prison and it would be the end of DiMera.

Kayla wishes Cat luck. Cat reminds her there’s still no guarantee the sale of the hospital will go through. Kayla goes over the board finding EJ’s actions unethical and leading them to have him removed. Cat asks if EJ can appeal their decision. Kayla says the hospital assured he wouldn’t have a leg to stand on, so it would be about EJ and Gwen’s negotiating price. Cat notes that she doesn’t have any meetings on EJ’s calendar. Kayla says she and the board need to meet with Gwen first and hopefully soon, but they haven’t been able to reach her. Kayla adds that Gwen didn’t show up to their meeting and is not returning her calls now which she finds a bit surprising.

Leo sits with Gabi and tells her that Holly was in rough shape but he was able to convince her to back to the hospital. Gabi is glad that Holly is getting the help she needs. Leo tells Gabi that he did a deep dive on the counterfeit bags and set up a meeting with a contact. Gabi says she appreciates that, but she already figured out that Xander is behind it.

Xander questions Brady thinking that Holly wanted him to bring her bag because there were pills in it. Brady says it’s hard not to think that. Xander asks about the belief that she ingested the Coriseal from the well water on Smith Island. Brady says he wanted to believe that too, but the well sample came back showing only arsenic which means Holly probably took those opioids willingly. Xander questions all their theories about EJ just being wishful thinking because they can’t prove it. Brady says it seems that way.

Sarah tells Holly that she loves her but she can’t help her unless she tells the truth. Gus informs Sarah of the tests he took and how Holly showed no signs of drug use. Gus declares that he believes Holly was just dehydrated. Holly then remarks that at least someone believes her.

EJ tells Rita that once the Coriseal investigation ends, there will be nothing tying him or DiMera to the contamination. Rita adds that if he gets from Gwen what he paid for the hospital, they’ll be back in business. EJ responds that if he’s forced to negotiate with Gwen, he will make it a living Hell for her and profitable for him. EJ tells Rita that Cat will be there soon, so it’s time to make herself scarce. Rita guesses EJ must be sad to be losing Cat. EJ reveals that he’s offered Cat a job as his personal assistant if the hospital goes south. Rita question where that leaves her. EJ assures Rita that she is irreplaceable. Rita then asks EJ if he plans on making Cat his personal assistant, how personal does he intend on it getting?

Cat asks Kayla why Gwen would suddenly drop off the radar right when it’s time to finish purchasing the hospital. Kayla wonders if EJ may have done something to dissuade Gwen. Cat doesn’t think she has to worry about that since it’s a business deal. Kayla remarks that business can become very personal, especially when the DiMeras are involved. Cat decides she will reach out to Gwen and check on her. Kayla tells Cat that if she changes her mind about the job, her door is open as she exits the office. Cat then calls Andrew Donovan and asks him to put a trace on Gwen’s phone ASAP.

Leo asks Gabi how she figured that Xander was the counterfeiter. Gabi explains that the only thing new in Gabi Chic was the shipping contract with Titan, so she connected the dots to Xander. Leo thinks that’s circumstantial and that Xander would be smarter than that. Gabi remarks that Titan is hanging on by a thread so Xander is desperate and maybe got sloppy. Leo calls it possible but thinks she needs definitive proof. Gabi asks if Leo can get that for her. Leo agrees to investigate and declares that if it does lead back to Xander, this could be the end of him as CEO. Gabi remarks that she will enjoy every second of his downfall.

Xander tells Brady that he wishes they got the second sample of the well water before Julie had it decontaminated. Brady points out that it still wouldn’t explain the pills in Holly’s bag. Brady says he’s looked at every possible explanation and every road leads back to that bag and the pills.

Sarah tells Holly that they are just waiting on the latest round of blood work and that she will stay overnight. Holly argues that she wants to go home. Sarah questions why she was so desperate to get out and what was so important to go to the Salem Inn. Holly responds that it wasn’t to meet with her dealer if that’s what she’s thinking. Holly says that she needed to go somewhere to be alone and not be judged. She declares that she needed to get away from Tate, Brady, and mostly from Sarah. Sarah asks Holly who she will talk to if not her because she has to talk to someone. Holly asks for Xander or EJ since they don’t think she’s some lying druggie.

EJ tells Rita that there’s no need to concern herself with he and Cat. Rita suggests he exercise caution because they both know there are some parts of his business that are very sensitive right now. EJ assures that Cat won’t find out.

Cat asks Andrew to let her know if he gets any hits on Gwen. Cat adds that she’s looking at a different angle on the EJ investigation because it’s possible that EJ has done something to get Gwen out of the way. Cat calls it another item on the list of things they’re trying to nail EJ for. Cat adds that the closer she gets to EJ, the closer they get to being able to do that. Cat declares that if she finds what she’s looking for, they may just be able to shut down EJ DiMera once and for all.

Sarah pleads with Holly that she’s not ready to be on her own and says it’s dangerous for her to leave until she’s stronger. Holly wants another doctor because she doesn’t want to see her anymore. Sarah agrees to find someone else if it means Holly stays at the hospital, so Sarah exits the room.

Xander tells Brady that there must be more they can do to help Holly. Sarah comes over and says there is because Holly is refusing to talk to her or Tate, but she did say she would talk to Xander or EJ because they are the only ones who haven’t accused her of lying. Xander agrees to go talk to her now. Brady tells him that it’s important that he gets her to come clean as it’s the only way they can help her and they know addicts can be convincing. Xander heads to Holly’s room. Brady hugs Sarah as she laments that she wishes she could save Holly but she won’t even talk to her. Brady encourages that Holly is just angry but she will realize that Sarah loves her and is just trying to help her.

Holly cries in her hospital room, asking why won’t anyone believe her.

Gabi tells Leo that she knows they’ve had their differences in the past because she didn’t trust him as she was worried he would hurt Javi which he did, but she knows he regrets it and now she’s glad to have Leo by her side. Leo hates that Gwen was scammed and wants to make sure nobody else suffers at the hands of this criminal. Gabi appreciates that and says she hoped to break the news to Gwen about Xander, but she hasn’t been able to get ahold of her. Gabi says that Gwen hasn’t answered her texts or voicemails. Leo adds that Gwen hasn’t even read his texts and that’s not like her.

Cat goes to the DiMera Mansion and joins EJ in the living room. Cat informs EJ that Kayla came to see her to tell her that she would still have her job at the hospital once EJ was gone, but she told Kayla that she is loyal to EJ. EJ says he’s very pleased to hear that and adds that he hasn’t given up on the hospital just yet. Cat notes that Kayla mentioned trying to schedule a meeting with Gwen, but they haven’t been able to reach her. Cat asks when EJ last heard from Gwen. EJ says it was a couple days ago. Cat wonders why Gwen would suddenly go off the radar like that which EJ calls a good question.

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Days Short Recap Friday, August 7, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Xander told Philip that EJ called in their loan, and they had to pay everything by the end of the month. Alex walked so they told him what happened. He felt like they gloated to EJ too much. Gabi felt like she made things worse for them by playing around with EJ. Alex called them all out for not keeping their mouths shut. Dimitri let Leo know that he was the only one who would care if something happened to him. Gwen reminded him that he would care if Leo didn’t come back. She was glad that Leo ruined their marriage since he was a horrible person. Dimitri told her that she was bait for Leo. He planned to make love to Leo, but he was going to hide them somewhere that no one would find them in case someone actually looked for them. Javi talked to Rafe and told him that he was going to Alamania. He started to tell Rafe about it when Joy walked in the pub clutching her arm and doubling over in pain. Javi rushed to her side. Rafe called 9-1-1 when she got numbness in her arm.

Stephanie was at the hospital and talked to Kayla about her situation with Joy when Javi and Rafe showed up. Joy was brought to the hospital. Kayla rushed to help her. Joy wanted Kayla to call Philip. Philip was getting called out by Alex. Alex decided to take over and rushed to the hospital. He was by Joy’s side. Alex wouldn’t let Stephanie watch Kelsey so he took her to Joy’s room. Kayla left them alone. Joy was afraid that she wouldn’t be able to take care of Kelsey. Alex assured her that she wouldn’t be alone. Joy was happy that he came to see her instead of Philip. Kayla told Stephanie about what happened to Joy. She warned her that things could be bad for her. Leo and Gwen discussed ways to escape until they came up with an idea. He was going to fake being hurt to get out of the house. Leo pretended to have an appendicitis, and Dimitri became worried about him. Dimitri was trained so he would take out his appendix. Leo panicked so the plan didn’t work. Javi continued to talk to Rafe about going to Alamania. Rafe wondered what Gus would think about it. Javi told him that Gus was understanding about it. Rafe said that might not be true. Kayla told Joy that she had spinal stenosis. She assured Joy that she could live with it with a lot of treatments. Joy wasn’t sure about that. Alex told Stephanie about what happened. He’s going to watch Kelsey while Joy was in the hospital. Alex wanted to move into Joy’s room, but Stephanie said he wasn’t doing that.

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BTG Short Recap Friday, August 7, 2026

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Recap written by Michelle & Cheryl

Hayley wanted to get out of town right away. Bill told her that she was making too big of a deal out of what happened with Dani and the girls. Hayley said she wasn’t making a big deal out of it. They ended up arguing over it. She told him that she was going with or without him. Bill said they could leave today. He said he was going to the office and would meet her at the airport. Hayley talked to Randy and told him that she was going to be a widow soon. Later on, Bill collapsed at the office. Caroline called for help. Dani and Vanessa talked about Bill. Heather showed up and wanted to take a selfie with Dani and Vanessa. She wanted to take the picture with Dani and Vanessa for personal use. Andre talked to Smitty about finding the person who has been texting him. Heather told Vanessa that she wanted to have dinner with her and Joey.  Later on, Vanessa told Joey that Heather wanted to have dinner with them.

Kial wanted to have sex with Nicole, but she wanted to talk to him. He thought she chose Carlton over him. She told Kial he was the man she wanted to be with. They said they weren’t ready for a long-time commitment, but they were ready to be exclusive. Ted talked to Eva about her scar. He said it wasn’t unusual for transplant patients to have this type of reaction. Ted said after everything she went through it was understandable for her to react this way. He suggested that she be patient and that they would talk about doing something when she was further along. Ted said she should see a therapist and would ask Nicole to recommend someone.

 

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Days Short Recap Thursday, August 6, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Philip and Xander were celebrating saving Titan when the ran into EJ. He was ready to end the celebration for them. Philip ended EJ’s gloating when he told him that they had the money to make the loan payment. EJ was upset and stormed off. Philip admitted to Xander that he was the one who locked him and Sarah in the basement. Kate ended up ruining everything by interrupting them. Xander was grateful because they weren’t ready to be together yet. EJ called Rita to find out where the Kiriakis family got the money from to save their company. He rushed to Gabi’s office to yell at her for giving Titan the money to save the company. Gabi laughed and admitted what she did. She wanted to know if he was going to kill her. EJ started sneezing out of the blue. After he stopped, Gabi asked him if he stole her designs. He denied stealing her designs and warned her that Titan would still go down. Holly felt like Sarah was being nice to her because she felt guilty. She wondered if Sarah actually believed her his time. Holly wondered if she was just playing her to get to the truth. Sarah assured her that she believed her. She told her about the Coriseal, and EJ’s involvement in it. Sarah didn’t want Holly to say anything to EJ about it. Holly was horrified that he did that. Sarah assured her that EJ cared about her.

Brady and Steve talked about Kristen’s disappearance at the pub. They felt like she was kidnapped or hiding from EJ. Steve felt like EJ had a lot going on and would eventually get caught. Brady showed Steve the text Kristen sent to him. Steve noticed the hidden message behind the text. He wasn’t sure when she would come back. He thought Rachel would be okay until Kristen came back. Susan showed up to surprise Rachel. She had a message from Kristen. Susan told her that Kristen would do anything to be with her. Everyone would be there for her until Kristen came back. Susan started crying while she was talking to Rachel. Rachel started asking her questions about her mother until Susan slipped up but didn’t break character. She got mad until Susan hugged her. Brady walked in on Susan and Rachel. He wanted to speak to Susan alone. Brady called Kristen out, and she finally dropped the act. He wanted to know what was going on. Kristen told him that she was in danger because of EJ and had to disappear. She didn’t want Brady to get involved. Kristen would be back when she wasn’t in danger anymore. Amy arrived at the Kiriakis mansion to see if Holly got the sunflowers she sent her. She told her they were a reminder of what she did to Sophia. Amy wanted her to think about what she did to Sophia for the rest of her life. She told her that EJ bullied her into dropping the lawsuit, but she would face God’s judgement. Amy warned her that she would never get rid of her because she would be everywhere.

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