Days Update Friday, May 29, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Tate teaches Brady self defense at home. Brady calls him a good teacher and he’s proud of how good he is at this. Tate says it’s nice to teach outside of the gym so he thanks Brady for working with him. Brady says he should be thanking him as Tate is getting him ready to face all the bad guys as a private investigator. Sarah arrives with a box from the bakery, so Brady jokes that Tate is turning him in to a ninja. Sarah says she just wanted to stop by and let him know she’s thinking about him.

Belle and Marlena sit together at the Brady Pub, talking about how they can’t believe it’s been a year since John passed away. Belle talks about having a dream about him last night. Marlena mentions going to the cemetary today. Belle says she went yesterday and offers to go again but Marlena thinks she’d like to be alone. Belle says she understands and suggests they all get together for a family dinner tonight to raise a glass to John.

At the book store, Lani is looking at a book on breast cancer until Julie comes over and asks if everything is alright. Lani says she’s fine but a friend was just diagnosed with breast cancer. Lani then declares things just got even better as Eli arrives. Lani exclaims that he’s home as she rushes up to hug him. Lani says she’s missed him so much as Julie comes over to hug him. Julie questions if Eli was supposed to be here today. Lani says it was supposed to be tomorrow and she had a whole welcoming party. Eli says he missed them both so much that he couldn’t wait to get there.

Tate thanks Sarah for the pastries she brought from the bakery. Brady suggests Sarah join them sometime for a workout. Tate talks about working up an appetite. Brady asks Sarah about Xander being back in the house. Sarah says it’s been okay so far as they’ve been staying out of each other’s way. Brady suggests they have dinner tonight. Sarah says she’d love to but she promised Kayla that she would volunteer at the clinic. Sarah promises they will have dinner soon. Brady says it can’t be soon enough as they kiss and Sarah then exits. Tate comes back in and comments that he hasn’t seen Brady this happy in awhile and it’s really nice.

Belle goes to the police station to meet with Amy Choi in the interrogation room. Belle tells her that she’s so sorry for her loss and asks what she can do for her. Amy declares that she would like to bring manslaughter charges against Holly Jonas.

Lani tells Eli that the twins are with Paulina as she said she could use the distraction and cheering up. Eli can’t believe Paulina walked away from her marriage without a fight. Lani says she was adamant that it was the right thing to do and she was being selfless, sacrificing her own needs for Abe and Theo. Julie calls that love, pure and true. Lani agrees but knows when the situation calls for it, the Price women will put up a hell of a fight.

Marlena goes to see Brady. Marlena mentions having breakfast with Belle while Brady talks about trying to distract himself. Marlena reveals that she brought the chess set that Stefano left her.

Belle tells Amy that she understands her request. Amy argues that Sophia may be gone because of Holly’s actions, so she wants Holly to pay to protect anyone from suffering the same fate. Amy declares that if Sophia wasn’t mercilessly bullied, she would still be with them. Belle understands why she believes that, but asks how she intends to prove it. Amy reveals that she has the evidence on her phone.

Holly goes to the hospital and tells Sarah that she needs her help.

Julie says she has to get back to work. Eli offers to help but Julie urges them to get out and enjoy the day. Eli hugs Julie as he and Lani exit. Foster then arrives. Julie tells him that he’s not scheduled to work today. Foster responds that he came to see her.

Marlena tells Brady and Tate that she has no interest in keeping the chess set and that it was actually left for John, so it didn’t feel right for her to just throw it away and she decided to see if they want it. Brady isn’t sure he wants it either but he will take it off her hands. Marlena tells them that she stopped to see Rachel yesterday and she’s doing so much better. Brady says he’s just really worried about telling her the news about Sophia. Tate agrees that it’s bound to upset her. Marlena asks if Brady and Kristen plan to tell her together. Brady confirms they do and asks if Marlena has any advice on how to handle that. Marlena advises him to just tell her the truth and answer any questions honestly while making sure she knows they are there for her. Marlena says she’s so sorry that Sophia couldn’t find a different way to deal with her pain and she’s afraid now that everyone around her is in pain.

Holly tells Sarah that she doesn’t know what to do as her life feels totally out of control right now. Sarah asks what’s going on. Holly responds that she can’t sleep and keeps going over everything she ever said to Sophia. Holly adds that it doesn’t get better during the day and she couldn’t concentrate on her finals while she gets weirdly anxious around her friends. Sarah asks if she has any physical symptoms. Holly says not really except sweaty palms and no appetite, but it’s mostly her mind as she keeps going back and forth from feeling horribly guilty to how she treated Sophia to being so angry because Amy thinks Sophia’s death was her fault, so she starts to wonder if maybe it was. Holly complains that she doesn’t want to feel like this and asks Sarah if there’s something she can do because she can’t keep feeling like this.

Amy reads the comments Holly made on a public message board. Belle responds that she’s aware of the posts and she’s so sorry that Sophia had to read such disturbing things about herself. Amy calls it downright cruel. Belle agrees but says the investigative team analyzed the social media page and found that the original thread was started by Sophia. Amy questions why Sophia would do that. Belle suggests that she was trying to entice her classmates to support her or maybe she was trying to provoke Holly. Belle adds that since multiple others commented on the thread, accusing Holly won’t hold up in court. Amy argues that Holly wasn’t just harassing Sophia on social media and was saying these things to Sophia in person repeatedly. Belle says they have investigated the case and brings up Holly attempting to make amends including visiting Bayview. Amy complains that it didn’t stop Holly from continuing to torment her daughter. Belle tells Amy that if this case went to court, everything Sophia did would go public including the attempt on Johnny’s life, the fabricated sexting photos, and now the police have forensics evidence showing Sophia switched her anti-psychotic meds with Holly’s vitamins and used Rachel as her courier.

Brady thanks Marlena for visiting Rachel. Marlena says she loves her and is relieved to see how well she’s doing in treatment. Marlena asks how Holly is. Tate admits she’s not doing very well. Tate says that he and Ari have encouraged her to talk to somebody about the Sophia situation but doesn’t think they have gotten through to her. Marlena says she’d be glad to talk to her if it would help. Tate says that would be awesome and they’d really appreciate it. Tate says he’s going to meet Holly so he goes to get ready. Marlena informs Brady that she and Belle are meeting for supper tonight where they will make a toast to John, so she invites Brady to join them. Brady says he wouldn’t miss it.

Sarah is glad Holly opened up to her as it breaks her heart to see her struggling. Sarah wishes she could do more, but she’s not a psychiatrist so she thinks Holly should see one. Sarah recommends Dr. Fuller. Holly questions if talk therapy is really going to help her. Sarah says that Dr. Fuller can also prescribe medication. Holly complains that she’d be taking pills just like Sophia did. Sarah encourages that mental health issues are nothing to be ashamed of. Sarah says she’s proud of her for admitting she needs help and that she should be proud of herself.

Foster tells Julie that he heard a rumor she was short handed lately, so he thought he’d come help out. Julie says nobody expects him to help out on his day off. Foster repeats that he really came to see her, but while he’s there he can organize a display table and rearrange some of the bookshelves, then maybe they can have a talk or more of a question.

Eli and Lani sit together in the town square. Lani says she’s so happy he’s there. Eli knows it’s a tough time for her mom and she can use all the support she can get. Lani says it’s more than that actually. Eli asks what’s wrong. Lani says she needs to tell him something, but he has to promise not to say anything to anyone because Chanel doesn’t want anyone to know as she needs more time to process it. Lani reveals to Eli that Chanel had a biopsy done and it turns out she has breast cancer which shocks Eli. Lani says it’s apparently aggressive and her being pregnant makes treatment complicated. Eli tells her that he’s so sorry. Lani says it feels like just weeks ago, Chanel had everything she wanted. Lani encourages that Chanel is so strong and has so much to live for, so she has to be okay. Eli hugs Lani as she gets emotional.

Amy questions what kind of evidence they have. Belle explains that Sophia’s fingerprints were found on Holly’s skin supplement bottle which means Holly was telling the truth that they were switched out. Amy calls that ridiculous and argues that Sophia’s prints could’ve been on there for any number of reasons. Belle says she’s sorry but her office doesn’t see it that way. Amy questions if lack of evidence is the only reason Belle won’t get involved or if it’s because Holly is dating her nephew and she claims Rachel was helping Sophia switch the pills. Belle assures her views on the case have nothing to do with her personal connection to it. Belle says all of her colleagues came to the same conclusion and she’s certain that any other attorney would tell her the same thing. Belle states that her daughter also suffered from mental health issues, so trying to pursue this case will only be painful for her and her family. Amy responds that it won’t be as painful as allowing her daughter’s death to go unanswered.

Julie calls Marlena and leaves a message, saying she was just thinking about her and sending her love. Julie tells her to call her anytime she feels like talking and suggests they plan a dinner sometime this week. Julie hangs up and goes back to Foster, telling him that she had forgotten today is the first anniversary of John Black’s death, so she wanted to talk to Marlena but she didn’t answer. Foster states that first anniversaries can be really tough and relates to when his wife passed. Foster says he was impressed with himself that he got through a year without her as it didn’t seem possible. Julie relates to how she was on the anniversary of Doug’s passing. Julie says when she lost Doug, she thought she lost her place and purpose in the world but she’s beginning to discover who she is going to be next as now she’s a business woman with the book store which has helped a lot.

Marlena tells Brady that she will see him for supper and tells Tate it was good to see him as they hug. Marlena says she loves them both so much as she exits. Tate tells Brady that he’s supposed to go meet Holly, but says they can watch an old spy movie in John’s honor. Brady appreciates his offer but tells him to go see Holly and have fun, so Tate exits. Brady then sits down with a photo of John.

Holly tells Sarah that she doesn’t think she can take more meds after what happened with Sophia’s meds. Sarah encourages that it will be the right meds and the proper dose that she needs, so she goes to write her referral.

Eli tells Lani that maybe it’s not a coincidence that they decided to move back to Salem when they did and that a higher power brought them back to show Paulina and Chanel a lot of love which Lani agrees with.

Brady looks at the chess set that Marlena left until Belle shows up at the door. Belle says she knows they are having dinner today but she wanted to spend time with just him. Brady says he was going to call her but it’s better to see her. Belle sees the chess set, so Brady explains that Marlena brought it over since she didn’t want in her place but didn’t want to throw it out. Brady admits he was going to put it somewhere in storage out of sight, but curiosity got the better of him.

Eli and Lani stand in the town square as Lani says she’s sure his grandparents Tom and Alice are happy to have him back in town. Eli always feels they are watching over them. Lani adds that the twins will be so happy to have him home and asks if they should go pick them up from Paulina. Eli suggests Paulina can hold down the fort a little longer as he was thinking they could go home where she can help him unpack as they kiss.

Foster tells Julie that the one thing he hasn’t gotten the hang of since his wife passed is cooking. Julie asks what Foster wanted to talk to her about earlier. Foster says he feels a bit awkward as he lost his nerve. Julie encourages him to say whatever he wants to say. Foster calls it more of a question and asks if she’d like to have dinner with him this evening. Julie says she would be delighted to.

Tate meets Holly in the town square. Holly tells him that she just got done visiting Sarah at the hospital and talking through what she’s been feeling. Holly informs Tate that Sarah recommended a psychiatrist and apparently she just needs to work through what happened. Tate assures that he’s always there for her and they will work through it together as he hugs her.

Brady and Belle set up the chess table until they realize it has a pawn missing.

Marlena brings flowers to John’s grave and says she will always love him. Marlena picks up a penny and says John sent it from Heaven just to remind her that he’ll always be there.

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Days Update Thursday, May 28, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Chanel is at home reading up on her tumor as Johnny wakes up from falling asleep on the couch. Chanel tells him that she’s glad he got a little bit of rest, though she didn’t because she’s too wound up. Chanel says she thought she’d be more prepared to hear her cancer diagnosis since she’s heard it before, so she didn’t expect it to be such a shock. Chanel guesses she was just holding out hope for a miracle as Johnny hugs her.

Theo is at home, looking at photos of Abe and Paulina on the mantle. Abe then comes home and greets him. Theo asks how Lexie is. Abe responds that she’s great and could be discharged today. Theo calls that amazing. Abe says he just came by to change and get the place ready for Lexie to come home. Theo guesses it’s a good thing that Paulina moved the rest of her things out last night then.

EJ visits Lexie in the hospital. Lexie jokes that she was wondering when he would come say hello to this pricey little experiment of his. EJ calls it a very successful experiment and notes her being more animated since he saw her last. Lexie says the doctors don’t know about her surge of energy or what to expect going forward from this medical miracle. Lexie tells EJ that she doesn’t understand, so she’s hoping he can enlighten her.

Arianna lays in bed crying. She picks up her phone and looks at the unanswered text messages she’s sent to Liam, questioning him leaving town without saying goodbye, asking where he went and why he’s not answering her. She puts her phone down and screams in to her pillow until Gabi comes in. Arianna informs Gabi that she hardly slept at all because Liam left town.

Javi runs in to Leo outside of the Pub. Leo says he knows he’s supposed to respect his privacy and boundaries, but he wanted to make sure he was okay after he didn’t see him at Sophia’s memorial service. Javi says he wanted to be but had to work. Leo guesses that means he wasn’t suspended for going in to Johnny and Chanel’s apartment without his equipment. Javi confirms that he wasn’t but he’s been relegated to desk duty and station maintenance. Javi repeats that he wanted to be at Sophia’s service and sent her parents a condolences note. Leo calls him the most thoughtful man he’s ever known. Javi relates to what Sophia’s parents are going through and says he’s always grateful to Sophia for bringing Trey in to the world.

Johnny tells Chanel that they don’t need a miracle as there are so many effective treatments available these days, so he knows she will be okay. Chanel argues that he can’t know that. Johnny encourages positive thinking and chooses to believe they will win this fight together. Chanel agrees that positive thinking can be helpful but says that’s different from being in denial and avoiding the truth. Chanel says she’s been reading a lot about it and thinks it’s important that at least one of them is a realist.

Theo asks Abe if he’s getting a divorce or if his marriage to Paulina is invalid now. Abe responds that there will be a time and place to sort out all the legalities. Abe knows he’s used to clear-cut right and wrong decisions. Theo knows people will be hurt no matter what. Abe says he’s struggled with making the right decision here but then Paulina walked away and made the decision for him. Theo comments on Paulina always putting the people she cares about first. Abe calls that one of the reasons he fell in love with her. Theo asks if Abe still loves Paulina now.

Lexie tells EJ that there isn’t a cure for sepsis. EJ responds that a lot has changed and a doctor at this very hospital created a drug that could regenerate tissue and Dr. Rolf mixed it with a formula that he had developed which was able to cure her tumor. Lexie questions being patient zero in this formula. EJ jokes that a thank you would be nice while Lexie argues that she’s a woman of science and doesn’t believe in resurrections. EJ asks what she thinks happened here. Lexie asks where Dr. Rolf is as she thought he would be monitoring her 24/7. EJ is afraid that Dr. Rolf is unable to appear in public at the moment, so he’s asked him to maintain data points to ensure her recovery is proceeding smoothly. Lexie questions what kind of data points. EJ calls it nothing to lose sleep over as he’s just there to collect a small blood sample. Lexie questions if he became a phlebotomist. EJ asks why he would need medical expertise when he has hers as he presents her with the needles to use on herself.

Abe assures Theo that he didn’t just stop loving Paulina because Lexie came back and apologizes for the toll it’s taking on him. Theo says it’s not just that so Abe insists on knowing what’s got him upset. Theo explains that a friend of his accused him of doing something he didn’t do and assumed the worst of him. Theo complains that he’s not just upset, he’s pissed as hell.

Arianna tells Gabi that Liam left town and didn’t say why or even tell her, complaining that he’s not answering her messages and is totally ghosting her while she has no idea why. Gabi tries to tell her that she’s sorry but Arianna argues that this is what Gabi wanted all along. Ari declares it’s Gabi’s fault that he left town.

Leo tells Javi that the months they spent raising Tesoro were the happiest of his life and he thinks about him every day. Javi recalls being terrified of losing him when he thought he was in Johnny’s apartment. Leo praises him as a hero for saving Johnny’s life. Javi says he should get going. Leo hopes he didn’t make him uncomfortable. Javi says he’s just late to meet his boyfriend, Gus.

Chanel talks to Johnny about doing research on her situation. Johnny assures he will be by her side every step of the way. Chanel says she really needs his support, but that he can’t say her life is more important than the baby’s, reminding him that’s what he said when she first got pregnant. Chanel believes that’s what Johnny is thinking now. Johnny admits that he wasn’t sure at first if her getting pregnant was worth the risk but says they are in a completely different situation now. Johnny says all they can do now is listen to the doctor’s recommendations and go from there. Johnny promises to be a realist but that doesn’t mean he’ll be a pessimist as he knows nothing is guaranteed. Johnny states that decisions have to be made and she will be the one who makes them, so he will respect that. Johnny repeats that he’ll be with her every step of the way and he knows no one will fight harder to beat this than her as he hugs her and calls her his hero.

Leo tries to fight off getting upset over Javi’s new boyfriend as Javi walks away.

Gabi asks how it’s her fault that Liam left town. Arianna argues that she was a raving lunatic when she found out who he was and complains that she was horrible to him. Ari says just when she thought they were going to see if they could be something more, he vanishes because what guy wants to deal with an overprotective, crazy mother. Gabi questions if Liam left town because she made him slightly uncomfortable or if he pissed off the wrong people and had to get out of dodge. Ari says that Liam said he was done with all that and turning over a new leaf, so she believed him. Gabi suggests she didn’t know him as well as she thought.

Theo talks about how this friend had been great and supportive until now and with everything going on with Lexie and messing things up with Jada, he can’t help but feel like he’s on the verge of melting down. Abe encourages that it’s okay as it would be a lot for anyone to handle. Theo argues that he wanted to show his mom how far he came from the little boy in the psychiatrist office and he wanted her to be proud of him. Abe assures that she is proud of him and he is as well, every moment of every day.

After Lexie gives EJ her blood sample, Lexie asks EJ how Dr. Rolf plans to monitor her vitals from whatever bunker he’s hiding in. EJ reminds her that he owns the hospital, so he’s made sure Dr. Rolf has a backdoor to the server to access all of her records. EJ asks how Lexie is feeling psychologically as he imagines the whole experience has been intense. Lexie declares that she’s feeling a lot more at ease, knowing Paulina is out of their lives for good. EJ calls that a welcome bit of news, but admits he didn’t expect Abe to kick her to the curb so soon. Lexie reveals that he didn’t and that Paulina walked away, choosing not to get in the way of their lives. Lexie admits it was surprising because she gathered that Paulina is not a quitter. EJ agrees that Paulina is tough but warns that if she decides to unquit, he’ll make sure she regrets it.

Gabi argues that Arianna only knew what Liam wanted her to know and questions if he told her about his parents or his childhood. Ari admits she didn’t and calls herself stupid. She complains that she really liked him and Liam trying to push her away made her like him even more. Ari thought she finally met someone. Gabi praises her and encourages that she’ll meet someone great. Arianna talks about having a front row seat all year to Holly and Tate and all of her friends falling in love, so she just kept thinking when is it going to be her turn. She says she let herself fall so hard even though she and Liam weren’t even dating, while now she’s all alone again and it really sucks. Gabi assures that she knows.

Theo questions what Abe is proud of, arguing that he’s unemployed and living with his parents. Abe points out that he did amazing things in South Africa and was CEO of a multi-national conglomerate. Theo points out that he stepped down out of respect for his mom. Abe encourages that Lexie is incredibly proud of that. Theo is not sure what lies ahead for his future, career-wise. Abe tells him to take it easy and not rush things. Theo feels he can’t wait too long and says that they are a family again so they all have to figure out what the new normal is.

Lexie guesses EJ is not a fan of Paulina. EJ says they tolerate each other for their children but they’ve had their share of dust ups. Lexie is glad someone feels about her the way she does and questions how Abe could fall for someone like her. EJ says he’s not one to defend Paulina but feels she’s being considerably less charitable than the sister he remembers. Lexie argues that it’s because she wanted her family back and Paulina had them. Lexie calls Paulina arrogant and complains about the way she carried herself and her tone when she came to see her as if letting her have her husband was some grand act of heroism. EJ remarks that if he didn’t know better, he’d think she was talking about herself.

Chanel tells Johnny that she’s so grateful to have him by her side through everything. Chanel knows they’ve been dealing with a lot of sadness but they have to remember all they have to be grateful for. They agree they wouldn’t change what they have for the world.

Javi meets his boyfriend Gus in the town square and kisses him, saying he’s feeling grateful to be his boyfriend. Gus asks if something is up. Javi admits he ran in to Leo at the Pub. Gus asks if he behaved himself. Javi says he surprisingly did but it was so awkward. Gus offers to help Javi forget about him and they kiss as Leo walks in to the town square and sees them. Javi admits to Gus that Leo was asking questions about him, like how long he will be in town. Gus responds that he has a lot of PTO, so he plans to stick around awhile. Javi points out that a guy transferred at his department and that Gus could apply if he decides to stick around Salem for good, while Leo remains watching from behind the bush.

Chanel tells Johnny that a year ago, her biggest worry was whether people would boycott her bakery and now that seems small since Johnny nearly lost his life and she’s dealing with her illness. Chanel says it reminds her how precious every moment is, especially with him. Johnny tells Chanel that he loves her so much as they kiss.

Lexie questions EJ seriously comparing her to Paulina. EJ calls it a compliment and jokes that it just means Abe has a type. Lexie threatens to have him escorted out while EJ tells her that he’s just getting a rise out of her like old times. EJ admits that he likes seeing the DiMera side of her and says for far too long, she shunned that part of herself. EJ declares that unlike other pretenders, it runs in her blood and their family legacy is a very big part of her, whether she likes it or not.

Abe agrees with Theo that they do have to figure out what the new normal is, but right now he could use some help in getting the place ready for Lexie. Abe wants it to look it’s best and for Lexie to feel comfortable there. Theo asks about the pictures on the mantle with Paulina and if he should move them somewhere else. Abe says it doesn’t feel right taking them down. Theo points out that it doesn’t feel right having them up either.

Arianna apologizes to Gabi for going on about a guy she knew for ten minutes when she just broke up with Philip. Gabi insists that she’ll be fine. Ari knows how much Philip meant to her and asks if there’s a way they can work things out. Gabi says she doesn’t think so since she betrayed his trust and when that happens, it’s next to impossible to win it back.

Leo continues watching as Javi tells Gus that he’ll put in a good word for him, but they will fill the position soon. Javi knows Gus’s job, family, and his whole life is in Texas. Gus admits he wasn’t sold on the idea of staying in Salem before, but he’s come to realize he doesn’t want to be apart from Javi again. Javi calls that amazing and kisses him. Javi decides he will show Gus around, so they walk off together, leaving Leo looking sad.

Arianna remains in bed and sadly looks at her phone again. Gabi brings her bread that she baked. Arianna recalls her grandmother saying all the kids baked that when they were feeling heartbroken and that it calmed the nerves. Gabi suggests making them a spa appointment. Ari knows they’ve had disagreements lately, but she wants Gabi to know that she loves her and she’s really grateful that no matter what happens, she can always trust her as she hugs her.

Theo pulls out an old framed photo of Lexie which Abe recalls being taken. Abe decides they’re all set and suggests Theo go visit Lexie, adding that he could use the help in getting her home. Theo thanks Abe for the pep talk. They say they love each other as Theo then exits. Abe turns to the mantle and replaces Paulina’s photo with Lexie.

Lexie tells EJ that he’s wrong as she’s not ashamed of being a DiMera, she just has reservations about how her son fits in to that world. Lexie acknowledges that she and Theo are DiMeras, but also Carvers, so she thinks it’s important to find the right balance for Theo’s sake. EJ says he has to get going and thanks her for the blood sample, as he’s sure Dr. Rolf will be very happy with what he finds. EJ calls her a model patient and exits.

As Chanel and Johnny kiss, Johnny feels the baby kick. Johnny says this baby and Trey are lucky to have the best mom anyone could ask for. Johnny talks about being given perspective lately and says he’s cherishing feeling the baby kick big time. Chanel agrees with every precious moment as they feel more kicks.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, June 17, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Cat went to see Rafe. She informed him that EJ refused to use the drug. Rafe felt like there was something wrong with it. They realized that Lexie could be in danger. Anyone that EJ sold the drug to would be in trouble too. Cat couldn’t let EJ sell the drug to anyone. Rafe informed Cat that she couldn’t go after EJ. She reminded him that he wasn’t her boss. He threatened to go to her boss if she didn’t listen to him. Johnny went to see Xander’s office. He wasn’t interested in what he had to say. Xander apologized for everything. Johnny shrugged it off because he had bigger things to worry about. He appreciated him finally apologizing. Johnny walked out of the office when Philip arrived. Xander told him what happened with Johnny. He was surprised with how Johnny handled it. Xander advised Philip to try forgiving Gabi. He knew that Philip was miserable without Gabi. They argued over whether they should take the money. Gabi arrived while they were arguing. Xander backed her into a corner. Gabi said she was there to get what she needed in order for them to get the money. Johnny went to see EJ. He talked to EJ about Xander and Kate setting him up. EJ was heated and wanted to get revenge on them. Johnny didn’t want him to get revenge on them. He asked EJ why he didn’t share the miracle drug with Paulina. EJ said he wasn’t comfortable using his pregnant daughter-in-law as a guinea pig. Johnny believed his story. He asked EJ if he would help Chanel if something went wrong. EJ agreed to help Chanel.

Marlena teased Belle about kissing Chad at the game. Belle brought up the chess set. Marlena didn’t want to know about it. Chad arrived and suggested he and Belle play a game of chess. They felt like the missing pawn piece was a message to John and not about him. There could be another pawn they didn’t know about. Chad looked for secret compartments until she had to go to work. Leo showed up at Marlena’s office for their session. He talked about how scared he was for Gwen. Leo told her everything that happened. Marlena warned him that he might be in danger too. Leo said that no one would care if he died. Marlena told him that she and Javi would care. Leo was moved by what she said. He wanted her to let the world know that EJ was behind it if anything happened to him. Gabi let Xander and Philip know that she wasn’t just giving the money to them. She wanted to buy into the company and have a seat on the board. Gabi was going to have the paperwork drawn up so they could sign it. Xander agreed to it, and Philip allowed it to happen so it wouldn’t feel like a handout.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, June 16, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Stephanie went to the hospital for her appointment with Marlena. She saw Kayla and talked to her. Stephanie hoped what she did didn’t make the press. Kayla told her about Gwen buying the hospital. Alex went to the pub to see Joy. He saw Kate. She told him that Stephanie shooting at Joy could help with the sales of her mystery novel. Alex didn’t want to go along with that idea. While they talking, he asked about the lawsuit. Kate said she made it up. She said she had bigger problems. Alex said the DiMeras could go after them now. Marlena ran into Roman outside of the pub. Roman told her he didn’t know where he and Kate stood. Marlena said she hoped they worked things out. Later on, Marlena met with Stephanie for their session. She let Stephanie know that she was doing everything right to feel safe and secure. Stephanie said her judgment was off based on her choice of men. She wondered why she made terrible choices. Marlena said she she might have abandonment issues after what happened to her parents. She told Marlena that she was loved and would make it through it.

Alex went to the hospital. He told Kayla about Joy’s ultimatum. They knew Stephanie wouldn’t hurt the baby, but Kayla understood why Joy felt that way. She said he should tell Stephanie the truth. Brady and Sarah talked about Destiny’s bloodwork. Her bloodwork was normal but had a low coriseal like her sister. Sarah thought the same thing that killed Destiny’s sister killed her. They wondered if the drugs were tainted with something they didn’t test for. There was a possibility of other victims. Sarah said she hoped Liam had the answers they needed. Brady ended up finding Liam and his son. He said Liam moved in with Charlie at Brookville. Liam had money. Sarah said she was going to question Liam. Brady said he was going with her. Kate showed up at the hospital and ripped into Marlena. She told Marlena what she did. Marlena said she believed her. At the town square, Stephanie told Alex that she was glad that Joy was being understanding about what happened. Alex told her that Joy didn’t want her near Kelsey. He said they would work things out and Joy would change her mind.

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Days Update Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Theo goes home where Paulina says she didn’t know he was coming. Theo informs her that Abe told him she did something pretty selfless for he and Lexie today. Paulina responds that it was actually quite selfish.

EJ goes to Marlena’s office for hypnosis. Marlena apologizes for being late and says she was at Sophia’s memorial service. EJ asks if there was any mention of the fact that she tried to murder his son. Marlena states that a young girl is dead. EJ admits that Johnny talked to him about showing compassion. Marlena calls Johnny a good and kind young man. Marlena asks if they should get started but EJ says first, he brought her something.

At the Pub, Gabi tells Sophia’s parents that she’s so sorry for their loss. Jason thanks her for the story she shared while Amy notes that Sophia was always fond of Gabi.

Cat and Aaron arrive outside the Pub for the reception. Cat asks if he’s sure he’s ready to go in since she knows the service was tough for him. Aaron responds that he just can’t believe Sophia is gone. Aaron feels guilty for not being a better friend to her. Cat encourages that Sophia’s struggles had nothing to do with him. Aaron argues that Sophia had a baby because of him. Aaron says seeing Sophia’s brothers at the service reminded him of when he thought he lost Cat, but thankfully they still have each other as they hug.

Gabi goes over and greets Arianna. Gabi says she knows Arianna is mad at her for what she told her about Liam, but she won’t apologize for trying to protect her. Gabi says Sophia’s service just made her think about what she would do if something happened to her as she hugs her. Arianna jokes about Gabi saying she has her whole heart when Philip should get part of it, but Gabi reveals they are no longer together.

Tate and Holly walk through the town square as Tate comments that it was really nice service with heartfelt speeches. Holly complains that it felt like they were talking about a different Sophia than the one who tried to murder Johnny and drug her. Tate thinks it’s important to remember that she wasn’t always that way and she used to be their friend. Tate feels it meant a lot to Sophia’s parents that Holly was there. Holly argues that all Amy did was glare at her the entire time. Tate says all he saw was a mom grieving for her daughter. Tate asks if she’s ready to go to the Pub for the reception but Holly says she’s sorry, she can’t do it.

EJ delivers a bag to Marlena. Marlena responds that she’s not allowed to accept gifts from patients. EJ clarifies that it’s not from him. Marlena opens it to see the chess set that Stefano left her. Marlena questions why he brought it. EJ points out that Stefano wanted her to have it. Marlena says she doesn’t want it. EJ says it’s hers so she can do with it what she will.

Theo doesn’t understand how Paulina leaving the house can be selfish. Paulina argues that she’s not leaving as a generous gift, but to save herself more heartbreak and preserve her dignity. Theo states that Abe never wanted to hurt her and has been torturing himself about what to do. Paulina says they all know Abe and Lexie are soulmates, so she’s made her peace with letting God’s will be done.

Gabi and Arianna step outside where Gabi tells Arianna that she made a selfish choice that she knew was wrong which hurt Philip so deeply that he decided they couldn’t be together. Ari questions what she did that was so bad. Gabi says she’s sorry but she can’t tell her. Gabi insists that she greatly regrets it. Arianna asks how Philip found out. Gabi responds that she’s pretty sure Theo told him.

Cat and Aaron go in to the Pub and tell Sophia’s parents about being so sorry for their loss. Aaron talks about having a crush on Sophia since the day he met her. Aaron mentions still having a butterfly drawing that Sophia gave him which Amy says she would like to see. Aaron tells them that if he had known Sophia was having his baby, he would’ve been by her side the whole time. Amy notes that Sophia told her that she didn’t intentionally deceive him and truly thought Tate was the father. Aaron assures that he never held that against her and just wishes he could’ve told Sophia that he loved her one more time.

Holly complains that Amy hates her and blames her for Sophia’s death. Tate says he won’t force her but he definitely needs to go say something so Sophia’s parents. Holly gets it since he was very close with Sophia. Tate asks if she will wait here while he makes an appearance. Holly says she’ll just order an iced tea so Tate says he’ll be back soon and he loves her as he walks away.

Theo questions where Paulina is going to go. Paulina reveals that she’s already checked in to the Salem Inn, so that will be her home for the time being. Theo says he’s so sorry. Paulina tells him not to be and that he deserves to have his mom back. Theo thanks her for making Abe so happy and for being a really good stepmom. Paulina says he made it easy. They agree to be family for life. Paulina says she wants to be gone before anyone gets home, so she asks Theo to watch Trey until Chanel gets home which he agrees to. Paulina adds that if Theo ever wants to have coffee or talk, he knows where she is. Theo tells her the same as they hug.

Arianna questions Theo selling Gabi out and says he doesn’t seem like the kind of guy who would do something sketchy like that. Gabi says she didn’t think so either, but here they are. Arianna says she’s really sorry about Philip and that sucks. Ari guesses this means Gabi is moving back home which she confirms. Ari admits she thought Gabi and Philip were really good together. Gabi agrees and complains that it wasn’t Theo’s place to come in between them. Ari asks why he did. Gabi guesses Theo’s just another selfish guy who used what he knew to get what he wanted. Aaron then comes rushing out of the Pub and says he’s got to get out of there as he hurries off. Gabi says they’ll talk later as Arianna goes after Aaron. Gabi then walks off in the opposite direction.

Holly spills her tea in the town square. Julie comes by with napkins to help clean it up and asks if she’s okay.

EJ tells Marlena that thanks to her, he’s no stranger to hypnosis and what it can unlock. Marlena notes that he was a little vague about what he’s hoping to retrieve in the session. EJ explains that he recently learned that Cat was recovering from a car accident in the same rehab clinic in Italy where he was for all those years. Marlena calls that quite a coincidence. EJ says unless it’s not. EJ informs her that they’ve both had flashes of Cat at his bedside, reading Wuthering Heights to him, but she doesn’t recall that time in any detail. EJ adds that Cat thinks she kissed him and it occurred to him, that when he recovered, his feelings for Sami weren’t the same. EJ wondered if whatever relationship he had with Cat had anything to do with that.

Arianna catches up to Aaron in the town square and asks if he wants to talk. Aaron says he’s good but Arianna knows he’s not. Aaron complains that he’s just thinking if maybe he didn’t sign away the rights to their kid, maybe Sophia wouldn’t have self destructed and maybe she’d still be alive.

Tate goes to the Pub and compliments the service to Sophia’s parents. Amy thanks Tate for coming and always being kind to Sophia during her pregnancy. Tate feels he didn’t do anything while Jason says he tried which they will always be grateful for. Tate admits when he thought they were having a baby, he felt really close to Sophia and he wants them to know that he’s going to miss her and the way he remembers her before. Tate tells them that he’s really sorry for everything that’s happened.

Julie offers to call Maggie but Holly says it’s okay and that Maggie believes she was wrong for what she did to Sophia anyways. Julie asks what she believes. Holly admits the things she posted were unkind but she was upset and hurt as she was a victim too. Julie assures that she understands.

Gabi goes to see Theo and tells him he got what he wanted as she and Philip broke up. Theo doesn’t understand and questions why. Gabi calls him a lousy liar and tells him not to pretend he doesn’t know exactly what happened, leaving Theo confused.

Marlena tells EJ that there will be ground rules as they will not discuss his marriage to Sami nor his relationship with Belle. EJ accepts that they are off limits. Marlena also advises him to temper his expectations as she suspects his memories while he was in a coma are no longer in tact. EJ explains that he did research and a recent study discovered a quarter of coma patients are somewhat aware of their surroundings. Marlena admits that she’s witnessed patients in that percentage. EJ asks her to help him try to understand what happened with Cat and how it affected him.

Aaron cries to Arianna that he feels so damn sad because Sophia was great when she was herself and now she misses out on her entire life, calling it unfair. Arianna agrees and says she feels really sad too but all they can do is remember the good times they had with her and try to be kinder to each other.

Amy tells Tate that she saw the lovely note he left for Sophia at the pier which Tate says was the least he could do. Tate adds that Brady said to tell them he’s sorry he couldn’t make it. Jason mentions seeing him at the service and that the outpouring of support has meant everything to their family. Amy admits she didn’t know Sophia touched so many lives. Amy points out that she hasn’t seen Holly since the service and asks if she’s there.

Julie tells Holly about how when she was her age, her friend Susan was married to David, who she loved and when they broke up, Julie got with David and Susan was furious. Julie talks about Susan blaming David for the supposed death of their child, who she didn’t know was alive and adopted, so in her grief and anger, she shot and killed David. Julie tells Holly that she does understand what it’s like to lose a friend and how it can end in tragedy. Julie hopes she didn’t make things worse by telling her this. Holly responds that it’s good to know someone else understands.

Marlena begins hypnotizing EJ to the clinic in Italy. EJ hears Cat reading Wuthering Heights to him.

Theo tells Gabi that he doesn’t know what she’s talking about. Gabi accuses Theo of telling Philip that she planted the bug in the Titan office and that she’s the reason that DiMera was able to break away from Titan. Theo questions what makes her think that. Gabi argues that she saw him talking to Philip and then shortly after, Philip broke up with her, adding that he’s one of the only people who knew. Theo questions why he would tell Philip. Gabi then reveals that she read Theo’s journal when he left it at the Pub and she knows that he has feelings for her.

Arianna asks Aaron if he wants to hang out and play video games which he accepts. He says he should get back to the Pub since he rushed out without saying goodbye to Sophia’s parents. Aaron tells Ari that he’ll get changed when he’s done and text her. They hug as she tells him it will be okay and he then walks away. Holly asks Julie how she got through it after the tragedy. Julie responds that she leaned on the people who loved her most, her grandparents Tom and Alice Horton. Julie encourages Holly to keep busy and be grateful for the love in her life. Holly wishes she could go back and change things. Julie tells her not to harp on that as it will only make her hurt worse. Julie urges Holly not to blame herself for the actions of others and says that Sophia is the only one responsible for what happened.

Tate explains to Amy that Holly went to the service but didn’t think she would want to see her here. Amy calls it another in the long list of things Holly got wrong. Tate assures her that this has been hard on Holly too which Amy questions. Jason thanks Tate for stopping by and says they are grateful. Tate repeats that he’s really sorry for their loss as he exits. Amy complains to Jason that they may never see their daughter again while Tate stood there and said Holly is suffering when they are the ones whose lives will never be the same. Jason hugs her as she cries.

Marlena asks what else EJ is hearing. EJ feels there’s more to it but he’s stuck and questions why he can’t see. EJ wants to keep going but Marlena decides to end the hypnosis. Marlena tells EJ that it’s counterproductive to force it. EJ questions why he can’t remember more. Marlena points out that he was unconscious most of the time he was at the clinic and wasn’t interacting with his environment. EJ remarks that he should’ve known she couldn’t help him and asks if she’s saying he may never recover those memories. Marlena responds that those memories may not exist and suggests maybe Cat would know more.

Theo tells Gabi that he didn’t wish for her and Philip to break up or tell Philip and points out that Gabi lied when she said she didn’t read his journal. Gabi argues that it doesn’t matter since he caused her relationship to explode. Theo tells Gabi that he just moved Paulina out of his house because his mother came back to life after 15 years, so he’s had more important things to worry about than telling Philip that she bugged his office. Theo doesn’t care if she doesn’t believe him. Theo says he has to look after Trey and asks Gabi to leave.

Tate returns to the town square. Julie says she has to get back to her book store. Holly thanks her for the advice and for listening. Julie says she’s there for her any time she needs to talk. Holly asks Tate how it went. Tate admits it was really tough. Holly asks if Amy noticed she wasn’t there. Tate confirms that she asked about her and he told her that she didn’t think she would want her there. Holly asks what she said. Tate says it’s been a really long day and suggests he just take her home, so they walk off. Nearby, Arianna asks Julie if Liam is working at the book store today. Julie reveals that Liam no longer works for her as he quit. Arianna hopes it wasn’t because of her. Julie thinks back to Gabi asking for her help in getting Liam to leave town. Julie then tells Ari that apparently Liam wanted to move on and it was very sudden. Ari questions where he’s going but Julie says that’s all she can say.

Theo goes back to read his journal about his feelings for Gabi. Theo then rips the page out and tosses it across the room.

EJ runs in to Gabi in the town square and tells her to watch where she’s going while Gabi angrily blames him. EJ remarks that it seems her newly single status is not agreeing with her. Gabi tells him to mind his business. EJ responds that he couldn’t care less if she’s seeing Philip or not, but he hopes it doesn’t lead her to reconsider Tony’s offer to head DiMera because that offer is not valid. Gabi argues that EJ has no say in the matter but the answer is still no because she wants nothing to do with his family. Gabi storms off as Cat comes over and asks what that was all about. EJ blows it off as misunderstandings. Cat asks about EJ’s session with Marlena. EJ says he unfortunately was not able to remember anything more and Marlena believes it’s because he was unconscious and not actively retaining memories. EJ then points out that Cat wasn’t unconscious and was there reading at his bedside, so he asks Cat if she would undergo hypnosis because her subconscious could be the key to unlocking this mystery. Cat says if he thinks it will help then of course she will try it.

Marlena starts to throw away the bag with the chess set that Stefano left her but instead takes it with her as she exits her office.

Aaron returns to the Pub to say goodbye to Sophia’s parents. Jason tells him that they appreciate him being there while Amy hugs him and says not to be a stranger as he then exits. Amy wonders if she’ll ever feel not so broken but declares that they can’t just wait and hope it gets easier, they have to do something about it. Amy informs Jason that she decided she doesn’t want Sophia’s loss to be in vain and she doesn’t want another child to go through the pain and bullying that their daughter did. Jason asks how she can prevent that. Amy declares that she wants to press charges against Holly and have her prosecuted for manslaughter, right as Tate and Holly returned to the Pub.

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Days Update Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Alex sets up a crib at his apartment as Joy arrives with Kelsey. Joy apologizes for being late. Alex says all that matters is they’re here now and he can’t wait to spend time with his little girl.

Marlena greets Sarah at the hospital and questions her still being there after working overnight. Sarah explains that she got a text that a patient’s test results were in and she wanted to deliver them in person. Xander then approaches and greets them, happily telling Sarah that they meet again.

Johnny finishes a call at DiMera Enterprises as EJ arrives and says he just wanted to check and see how he’s doing. Johnny responds that he’s fine and that staying busy at DiMera is a nice distraction from everything going on at Abe and Paulina’s. EJ says he can imagine it’s quite complicated. Johnny asks if complicated is what he calls bringing Lexie back from the dead. EJ guesses he has mixed feelings. Johnny says he couldn’t be happier for Abe and Theo. EJ asks how Paulina is handling the situation. Johnny responds that he’s not going to discuss Paulina with him. Johnny calls it the last thing Chanel needs on top of everything else.

Chanel starts packing her things and tells Paulina that if she’s moving out, so are they. Paulina argues that she’s moving out because Abe’s wife is moving in while it has nothing to do with them. Chanel refuses to stay there without her, especially not with Abe and a woman that she doesn’t know. Paulina states that Lexie is Johnny’s aunt and she doesn’t want her grandson staying in some room at the Salem Inn. Chanel assures that he won’t be and neither will she.

Leo and Chad sit together at the Brady Pub. Leo has his laptop out and says he doesn’t know what else to write about Lexie’s resurrection and asks if he wants to brainstorm ideas. Leo notes Chad is distracted and reminds him that this is supposed to be an official Spectator meeting, so he asks what’s going on in his head. Chad responds that he just has a lot going on, so Leo shuts his laptop and urges Chad to open up to him, adding that he’s going to nudge him until he tells him, so Chad gives in. Chad informs Leo that he thinks EJ is moving in on Cat and it’s none of his business, but it bugs the hell out of him.

Jennifer runs in to Cat in the town square and asks for a word with her.

Xander remarks to Sarah that she must not have spent much time at Brady’s at all and jokes that her new boyfriend must be quick, then suggests maybe she was just putting on a big show for him. Sarah tells Xander to suck it and walks away. Xander comments that it seems he struck a nerve. Marlena then orders him in to her office now.

Leo tells Chad that he understands because not long ago, it seemed Chad and Cat were poised to become Salem’s new it couple. Leo adds that it wasn’t like they chose to break up as it was forced upon them with their feelings still in tact and EJ is EJ. Chad argues that Cat doesn’t seem like she would be drawn to someone like that, but admits EJ can be charming when he wants. Leo thinks back to accusing Cat of being ISA and tells Chad that he wouldn’t worry about it as he doesn’t think Cat has any romantic interest in EJ. Chad asks what makes him say that.

Jennifer tells Cat that she’s had a really hard time letting go of the anger she’s had towards her. Cat says she understands why. Jennifer acknowledges that Cat’s never been defensive and always taken responsibility for what she did, but she just couldn’t find it in herself to forgive her. Jennifer states that she and Jack have been in therapy to work through their grief. Cat hopes that is helping. Jennifer says they’ll see. Jennifer brings up being a recovering addict and says part of the healing process is making amends, so she tells Cat that she’s sorry for all the times she lashed out at her and deliberately hurt her. Jennifer states that she would like to end all the hostility between them and call a truce.

Joy tells Alex that she could’ve brought her crib, so he didn’t have to go buy a new one but Alex says he’s hoping Kelsey will be over a lot so it seems like a worthwhile investment. Joy admits she’s nervous because she’s never let anyone babysit but her mom and sister. Alex gets that he’s new at this. Joy asks if he knows how to change a diaper. Alex admits that he’s not an expert but he’s watched YouTube and has read Joy’s instructions that she sent him, so they will be fine.

Paulina questions where Chanel and Johnny are planning to leave. Chanel informs her that their apartment is safe to move back in to, so they are moving back in and Paulina is coming with them. Paulina says absolutely not and insists that she doesn’t need to worry about her. Chanel asks how can she not and says her heart is literally breaking for her.

EJ asks Johnny if something’s going wrong with Chanel’s pregnancy. Johnny says it’s just a high risk pregnancy and they have a baby at home, so she doesn’t need the added stress. EJ brings up that Sophia didn’t help. Johnny acknowledges that he put Sophia through a lot by backing out of the adoption. EJ argues that doesn’t give her the right to try to murder him. Johnny agrees but says at the end of the day, Sophia was dealing with mental health challenges, so she deserves compassion. EJ calls him a better man than he is. Johnny says he’s just trying not to be angry about it because it does no good for any of them. Johnny says he has a lot to get done, but EJ informs Johnny that Tony wants to remove him from the CEO chair. Johnny hoped he would win Tony over, but with the whole lawsuit from Titan, he can’t say he’s totally surprised. EJ declares they are not going down without a fight.

Marlena brings Xander to her office and asks what happened to his arm. Xander responds that he dislocated his elbow. Marlena questions how he did that. Xander then admits the truth to Marlena that he was having aggressive sex with Kristen DiMera. Xander asks if that shocked her. Marlena responds that it takes more than that to shock her, but last time they spoke, he was in a relationship with Gwen. Xander says he wouldn’t describe that as a relationship. Marlena asks about Kristen. Xander calls her beautiful and passionate, adding that the opportunity presented itself. Marlena points out that Kristen is also Brady’s ex. Xander insists that had nothing to do with it. Xander explains that he and Kristen met because of business but one thing led to another and that was it. Marlena asks how it made him feel. Xander jokes that it was good enough to go back for more. Marlena asks how it mae him feel emotionally. Xander then admits it made him feel terrible.

Paulina assures Chanel that she’s a survivor and she will get through this. Trey wakes up crying while Chanel gets a phone call, so Paulina goes to check on Trey as Chanel answers the call from Sarah. Sarah informs her that the results of her biopsy are in and asks Chanel to come to the hospital so they can go over them together. Sarah adds that she might want to bring Johnny with her as they hang up. Paulina comes back and tells her that Trey went back to sleep. Paulina notices Chanel is upset and asks what’s wrong. Chanel responds that she has to get to the hospital and claims that she just forgot about a scheduled appointment. Chanel says she shouldn’t be too long and hugs Paulina as she then hurries out.

Johnny tells EJ that he doesn’t have time for corporate in-fighting right now. EJ questions him just wanting to roll over and let Tony destroy the business. Johnny says he just has more important things to deal with. EJ asks what’s more important than letting Tony hand over the business to the likes of Gabi which Johnny questions. EJ says that Tony has all the power but luckily Gabi turned him down. Johnny admits he can’t believe Tony would rather have Gabi in charge than him. EJ points out that it’s not about Johnny, but about damaging him. Johnny then gets an alert on his phone and says Chanel needs him, so he has to go. EJ asks if something happened with the baby. Johnny repeats that he has to go and rushes out of the office.

Joy asks about Stephanie, so Alex informs her that she’s in China with her family. Joy thought the whole point of this was for Alex and Stephanie to get to know Kelsey. Alex says that was the plan but they decided it best to have just him do it before they start introducing more new people in to Kelsey’s life. Joy instead jokes that maybe Stephanie so desperately didn’t want to be around her kid that she took off to the other side of the world.

Chad questions Leo thinking that Cat isn’t interested in EJ. Leo guesses he’s just agreeing with Chad about Cat’s judgment. Chad feels there has to be more that made Leo say that. Leo calls it intution and asks why Cat would go from an incredible guy like Chad to Dr. Evil. Chad feels Leo is keeping something from him and questions what Leo knows about Cat that he doesn’t.

Cat questions Jennifer wanting to call a truce and asks if that means she forgives her. Jennifer responds that she just wants to let go of all of this anger as it’s not doing her or her family any good and it’s definitely not honoring her daughter’s memory. Cat assures she will never stop being sorry for what she put her through. Jennifer acknowledges that she’s done hurtful things over the years but in her darkest hours, the people that loved her offered her so much grace, so she’d like to offer Cat the same. Cat tearfully responds that she’s grateful. Jennifer is grateful that Cat is receptive to the truce and she knows that Abigail would approve. Jennifer adds that she just has one more thing she wants to say.

Joy questions Stephanie going to her brother’s wedding without him. Alex explains that he stayed behind to spend time with his daughter. Joy asks if everything’s okay between them. Alex admits it hasn’t been easy for Stephanie that he has a daughter with Joy, but they are determined to make it work. Joy says she hopes so as she’s not looking to cause trouble in his marriage. Alex promises that she’s not. Alex then shows Joy the book that Stephanie got for Kelsey. Joy says that’s great and tells Alex to thank Stephanie for her. Alex asks if Kelsey will be going down for a nap soon and says he’s kind of sad that he feels she’ll be sleeping for half their visit. Joy says babies sleep a lot and assures he’ll be grateful for those naps. Joy shows Alex the food she brought. Alex promises that he’s got this. Kelsey starts crying, so Joy offers to stay for a bit until she falls asleep which Alex agrees is not a bad idea.

Jennifer understands Salem is Cat’s home, so she wants her to have a wonderful happy life here and she wishes her the best. Jennifer takes responsibility for her part in influencing Thomas and leading to him being estranged from Chad and the custody agreement that Chad would stay away from Cat. Jennifer says she’s working through her anger, but she doesn’t know if she could handle Cat and Chad being together and raising her grandchildren. Cat responds that she understands and that she and Chad have accepted those terms. Cat declares that she’s accepted that there is no chance for her and Chad to be a couple again, so Jennifer has nothing to worry about.

Leo tells Chad that there’s nothing definitive that he can share about Cat right now. Chad reminds Leo that he’s his boss and asks if he should be worried about Cat. Leo says he doesn’t think so. Leo says he has an appointment with Marlena and tells Chad that his love life is even sadder than his as he hurries out of the Pub.

Xander tells Marlena that he’s had several opportunities lately to put her anger management techniques in practice. Marlena asks for examples. Xander reveals he now knows who leaked Philip’s fraud in the Titan-DiMera merger and it was someone he considered a friend, but he did not lash out and kept his cool and his emotions in check. Marlena calls that progress. Xander doesn’t know if Gwen would agree, since she’s been pressing him to open up to her and form more of an emotional attachment. Marlena points out not having that emotional attachment with Kristen and asks if that’s what he wants. Xander responds that what he wants is what he’s always wanted; to be with Sarah.

Johnny joins Chanel and Sarah in a room at the hospital. Chanel says she knows it’s bad news, so she tells Sarah to just say it. Sarah confirms that the biopsy shows that the mass is malignant and she’s so sorry.

Jennifer goes to the Pub and runs in to Chad, so she joins his table. Chad talks about the kids missing her and Jack. Jennifer asks if Chad intentionally cleared out because he knew they were coming home. Chad says no and that he had things to take care of, mentioning that he talked to Jack, so Jennifer guesses he was just avoiding her and says she gets it. Jennifer then informs Chad that she just had a really good conversation with Cat about moving on and letting go of anger. Jennifer adds that she would love to have that same opportunity with him if he’ll let her.

EJ meets Cat in the town square and says he got her message that she needs a favor. Cat informs EJ that her brother Aaron has had a tough time coping with Sophia’s death and her memorial service is this afternoon, so she hoped to take the rest of the day off to be with him. Cat knows EJ doesn’t have fond feelings for Sophia. EJ says it’s not about him and he understands Aaron is devastated considering that he and Sophia shared a child together. EJ mentions seeing Johnny earlier and he encouraged him to be forgiving of Sophia and compassionate, reminding him that she was struggling mentally and that’s why she made such terrible mistakes. EJ declares that if his son can offer the poor girl forgiveness and compassion, he should be willing to try as well.

Alex tries to get Kelsey to stop crying as Joy watches on. Alex asks what he’s doing wrong and turns to Joy for help.

Sarah informs Chanel that the tumor is considered high grade and growing aggressively, but it is responsive to hormone therapy. Sarah says they might consider surgery or chemotherapy. Chanel argues that can’t be safe during pregnancy. Sarah says they are risks but it is an option. Chanel refuses to put her baby at risk. Sarah argues that keeping her healthy has to be priority. Chanel says her baby is the priority. Sarah says taking care of the mother is essential to taking care of the baby. Johnny encourages that they have to take care of her first. Sarah agrees and encourages Chanel while Chanel cries as Johnny hugs her.

Marlena tells Xander that she saw the way he treated Sarah, so he must know he’s not going to win her back by insulting her. Xander explains how the sprinkler issue forced him to move back in to the Kiriakis Mansion and complains that the second he did, Sarah couldn’t wait to flaunt her relationship with Brady in his face. Xander remarks that he’s sure Marlena is thrilled for the happy couple. Marlena says that when Xander came to her, it was with the intention of finding a way to be a better man for his daughter. Xander says and for Sarah as she really is the only woman for him, the one he wakes up thinking about and the one he will love until his last breath.

Joy rocks Kelsey in her stroller to get her to stop crying while encouraging Alex.

Sarah states that she’s referred Chanel’s case to the experts who will be the most valuable resource in making her next step. Chanel thanks Sarah for everything. Sarah says they can call or text her any time as a doctor and a friend. Sarah repeats that she’s so sorry that Chanel is going through this, but she has proven to be a bad ass cancer warrior already so she’s confident that she can take this fight on too with a lot of courage.

Marlena encourages Xander doing some good work today and tells him not to take the bait with Brady. Leo then comes in as Xander exits. Leo tells Marlena that he’s sorry for being early as he didn’t mean to interrupt her session with Xander. Marlena says they were running over anyway and asks Leo what’s going on. Leo says absolutely nothing and that’s the problem.

Cat admits that EJ surprised her as she didn’t expect him to show that kind of empathy towards Sophia. EJ feels he would be a hypocrite if he didn’t, considering how many times he’s had to ask forgiveness for his actions. Cat guesses forgiveness is in the air as Jennifer just offered her a truce. EJ asks if that means she’s dropped her objection to Cat seeing Chad.

Jennifer tells Chad that fighting for custody of Thomas and Charlotte wasn’t because she thought he was an unfit father. Chad states that she said he was putting the children in a dangerous situation. Jennifer complains that she couldn’t watch Thomas suffering and that he has to understand the children are the last pieces of Abigail that she has left so she will do anything to keep them safe. Chad says he feels the same way. Jennifer says fighting for the children and for Cat to not take Abigail’s place is fighting for her daughter. Jennifer declares that it’s all she has left of her daughter and she doesn’t want to let it go. Chad thanks her for loving his children and for helping him keep Abigail alive for them. Jennifer wants him to be happy and find love again, she just doesn’t want him to forget Abigail and to keep her a part of their lives. Chad assures that she always will be as she was the love of his life and he will never stop missing her. Chad assures that Abigail lives on through their kids and says he knows that’s a comfort. Chad states that they didn’t have enough time together, but he has a lifetime of memories in the time they did have and that’s what keeps him going.

Cat tells EJ that Jennifer made it pretty clear that she’s letting go of her anger towards her but it would still not be cool for her and Chad to be a couple. EJ grants Cat her request for the afternoon off. EJ adds that he won’t be in the office anyway, so Cat asks what he has planned. EJ responds that he has a session of hypnosis with Marlena to help him recover the memories of the time they spent together in the rehab clinic. Cat says she looks forward to hearing how that goes. EJ says she will be the first to know.

Leo complains to Marlena that Javi has made it clear he wants him to stay away and doesn’t even want to be his friend. Marlena calls it a sign of growth for Leo to respect his boundaries. Leo admits he may have strolled by his house or the fire station but he didn’t catch a glimpse of him. Marlena warns that is stalking and calls it progress for him to get that.

Alex gets spit up on his shirt after feeding Kelsey. Joy says she should’ve warned him about that. Alex says he doesn’t mind and it’s fine, but he’ll have to change his shirt. Joy offers to leave Alex alone with Kelsey while she’s asleep now. Alex asks what if she wakes up and freaks out that Joy isn’t there. Alex then says it’s okay and that he’s sure Joy has plans since him having the baby gives her freedom for once. Joy tells him it’s okay and that she can stay. Alex is thankful and says he’ll eventually be okay solo, but right now it’s kind of nice having a wingman as Joy helps clean off his shirt.

Xander comes out from Marlena’s office and sees Sarah. Sarah asks about therapy and if he’s cured yet from being an obnoxious jerk. Xander says he’s sorry about that. Sarah says he’s not and his snide remarks were the last thing she needed. Xander asks if she’s having a bad day. Sarah says she had to deliver some awful news to a patient. Xander wishes he could comfort her but Sarah says he can’t and that she’ll see him at home, so Xander then exits.

Johnny tries to comfort Chanel and encourage her, reminding her that he’ll be with her every step of the way and that they are in this together. Johnny adds that he knows she’ll be the greatest mom for many years to come, so he refuses to believe anything else is possible as he hugs her.

 

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Days Opinions For The Week Of June 1, 2026

Opinion Article

 

by Michele & Cheryl

chanelandjohnnyfromdays

We liked how Johnny opened up to EJ about Chanel’s breast cancer. He needed someone to talk to about her cancer. Chanel is the one going through it, but it affects Johnny too. He is going through it watching the woman he loves in pain. EJ was allowed the opportunity to be there for Johnny. 

Chanel finally told Paulina about her breast cancer. Paulina was supportive when she heard the news. Chanel should have told Paulina sooner. We understand why Chanel didn’t want to say anything, but Paulina should have been told the truth. Paulina had a right to know what was going on. 

It served Gabi right that Theo wasn’t willing to forgive her for accusing him of telling her secret. If Philip didn’t tell her Theo didn’t tell him, she would have continued to treat him like dirt. She needed to have the proverbial door slammed in her face. 

Roman shouldn’t have been rolling out the red carpet for Joy. Did he forget that Joy almost ruined Johnny’s marriage? You would think that he wouldn’t be so willing to let her hang around the pub. Also, Joy’s baby could also come between Stephanie and Alex yet Roman was acting like he’s the doting grandfather. 

Marlena showed that she’s unprofessional when she blackmailed Xander into dropping the lawsuit against Johnny. If she felt that strongly about it, why did she continue seeing him? She could have recommended another therapist. What kind of a doctor refuses to see a patient unless she gets what she wants? Xander should report her to the board of health.

It was good to see Leo and Gwen getting along. After what Leo did to her, he should be glad that she was willing to talk to him. Gwen is the villain on the show, but she was the victim when it came to Leo and Dimitri. With that said, Leo is Gwen’s redeeming quality so it was nice to see them getting along. 

Why did Marlena have to ask Abe how Chanel was doing? Chanel is married to Marlena’s grandson. She could have checked on Chanel on her own. Marlena acts as if she’s not linked to some of the people in Salem unless it’s convenient. It’s bad enough she has no loyalty to the family, but then she acts like she’s not related to them. 

Johnny needed to stand up to Chanel. She had no problem acting like the decision to have chemo as well as the baby was hers. Did she forget that it’s his baby too? We know it’s her body, but it’s his baby too. She acts like his thoughts don’t matter one way or the other. Chanel could at least talk to him before she decides anything.

 

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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 June 1, 2026

Nitpicks & Flubs

 

by Michele & Cheryl

gabifromdays

Monday

-Chanel could be heard talking to Paulina while Cat was shown 

-Gabi could be heard talking to Philip while Paulina was shown.

-It sounded as if Gabi said the word inheritance wrong. 

-Cat could be heard talking to Mark while Johnny was shown.

-Chanel cried without any tears. 

Tuesday

-Sarah could be heard talking to her patient Destiny while Justin was shown.

-Xander could be heard talking to Marlena while Sarah was shown. 

-Dr. George could be heard opening a door while Xander was shown. 

-Roman could be heard talking to Kate while Sarah was shown.

Wednesday

– Lexie, Abe, and Theo said the dessert they were eating was good, but they weren’t eating it.

-Rolf could be heard talking to EJ while Gwen and Leo were shown.

-Sarah could be heard talking to Xander while EJ was shown.

-Lexie could be heard talking to Abe and Theo while EJ was shown.

Thursday

-Why were Gabi and Rafe the only ones who acknowledged Arianna’s birthday? Her family is in Salem yet no one else acknowledged her birthday.

-Sarah could be heard talking to Xander while Marlena was shown.

-Sarah cried without any tears.

-Where has Maggie been? Sarah could have talked to her about Destiny instead of Xander. 

-Why did Arianna call Julie by her first and last name when she’s related to her?

Friday

-Marlena could be heard talking to Lexie and Abe while EJ was shown.

-The coffee Johnny gave Chanel couldn’t have been hot because she drank it without blowing on it. It was in a mug so it’s likely that it was hot coffee and not iced coffee. 

-Chanel could be heard talking to Johnny while Theo was shown.

 

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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 Short Recap Monday, June 15, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Julie had a heart to heart with Marlena about them moving on with their lives. She told Marlena that she went out with Foster and enjoyed the time with him. Unfortunately part of her felt guilty about moving on with Foster. Marlena told her that Doug would want her to be happy. Julie agreed to see him again. They talked about Marlena’s situation next. Marlena wasn’t ready to think of anyone, but John. Foster called Julie, and she became excited to see him. EJ and Cat kissed each other. They stopped kissing when they saw Belle and Chad kiss on TV. EJ and Cat tried to downplay how upset they were. He wanted to focus on the future. EJ thought his future was with Cat. He kissed her again. Cat refused to go upstairs with him. She thought they were moving too fast. Belle and Chad were in the park after the game. Chad asked her if she was concerned about people seeing him kissing on TV. She didn’t care and asked if it bothered him. Chad didn’t care who saw them either. They started talking about the chess set that Marlena inherited from Stefano. Chad wanted to know more about the chess set. He wanted to look into it for her. Johnny wanted to surprise Chanel with a second honeymoon, but her thoughts were elsewhere. Chanel thought the future was too scared to think about it. Johnny wanted to focus on her. Paulina showed up at the apartment and wanted to see EJ. She talked to Johnny about the miracle drug and how it could help Chanel. Johnny didn’t think of that before. Chanel was upset about it. She might not want to take a drug from EJ. Chanel didn’t want to be indebted to EJ.

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Days Short Recap Friday, June 12, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Cat went to see EJ at the DiMera mansion. He told her about Chanel’s breast cancer. Cat suggested that he use the miracle drug. EJ refused to do it. He said he wanted submit the drug for FDA scrutiny before trying it on living people. EJ said everything had to be above board. He said he wasn’t using it on Chanel or her mother. EJ apologized to her and tried to make her feel better. They spent time together watching a game. While they were watching the game, he apologized to her about not remembering what happened in Italy. Jada and Belle talked about Stephanie’s shooting to see what the D.A.’s office wanted to do about it. Belle said she knew it was an accident and that Stephanie wasn’t a threat. Kayla and Steve showed up to see Stephanie. Alex let them know what happened with Stephanie while she was sleeping. He left to go for a run. Kayla and Steve stayed in case Stephanie woke up. Stephanie woke up and said she killed Joy. Kayla asked how many sleeping pulls she took. Stephanie said she took two pills. Kayla said it was too much. Steve wanted to go over gun safety with Stephanie, but she didn’t want the gun. She said she felt less safe with the gun.

Alex went to the pub to see Joy. He apologized for what happened with Stephanie. He asked if Joy was going to press charges. Joy said she was going to press charges. Alex tried to talk her out of it, but she didn’t change her mind. Joy said he wasn’t there to check on her. He was there to keep his wife out of jail. She said Stephanie belonged in jail. Joy let him know that even if Stephanie didn’t go to jail, she wasn’t going near Kelsey. Joy said Alex could see Kelsey he wanted to at her place. She said Stephanie couldn’t be there. Joy said Stephanie wasn’t stable and she didn’t trust her. Joy said if he wanted Stephanie to stay out of jail, she had to stay away from Kelsey. Alex didn’t like it, but he agreed to it. When Alex went home, he told the Johnsons from the baby. He didn’t tell them that Stephanie had to stay away from Kelsey. They all decided to go out for ice cream. While they were int he town square, they ran into Joy and Kelsey. Stephanie wanted to apologize, but Alex stopped her.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, June 11, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Chanel and Johnny went to see Sarah to tell her about what happened with the new doctor. Since the new doctor listened to her and answered her questions, Chanel decided to get chemo. The surgery was scheduled for the next day. Johnny told Chanel they would have a beautiful life once everything was over. Chanel wanted him to go back to work. Theo was in Johnny’s office. He wanted to let Johnny know that he would back him while he was going through his situation. Theo let him know that Xander was dropping the lawsuit. Lexie let EJ know that she might only have a few weeks to live if they couldn’t stop the degeneration. EJ said he wouldn’t let it happen. Lexie said she wouldn’t say anything. Theo wanted to see Gabi at DiMera. When Gabi showed up, he let her know that he wasn’t fighting her claim. He said the money was hers. Gabi thanked him. Theo said telling her now meant they wouldn’t have to go to court. He thought it would be better that he didn’t have to see her. Chanel told Paulina that she was getting chemo. She told Paulina that the doctor was going to induce labor and treat the areas that weren’t recommended while she was pregnant. The bad news was Chanel couldn’t breast feed or her immune system would be compromised. She said she might have to stay away from Trey. Paulina assured her that things would work out. Kate wanted to talk to Roman about what she did. She told him why she lied to him. Roman wanted to know why she wanted to tell him now. Kate said she was forced to do it. Roman said she would have kept the truth from him forever if she had a choice, Roman didn’t care for what she had to say and walked away. He went to the square to call Marlena. Gabi ran into Xander. He was happy about her inheritance claim being approved. She said she would let him know what she needed. Paulina went to see EJ and told him to use the miracle drug on Chanel. EJ said he couldn’t help.

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Days Update Monday, May 25, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Amy Choi goes to the Brady Pub and thanks Roman for agreeing to host the reception after Sophia’s prior service. Amy states that she’s not calling it a memorial because she knows in her heart that Sophia is not gone, so she’s been praying for a miracle to bring her home to them. Roman responds that he hope she gets her miracle and that his heart goes out to her and her family.

JJ and Shawn eat together in the town square. JJ says it’s good to see him on the mend. Shawn mentions that he’s almost cleared to return to work, though he hasn’t been assigned a new partner yet. Shawn asks if JJ has given any thought as to what’s next for him.

Jack goes home to Jennifer at the Horton House where Jennifer tells him that she’s judging Thomas and Charlotte’s cupcake baking contest. Jack tells her about seeing Steve, Kayla, and Stephanie before they left. Jennifer notes that he was gone longer than she expected. Jack then admits that he stopped to see Gwen.

Gwen finds Gabi drinking at Small Bar and comments on her starting early. Gabi responds that she could care less what time it is. Gwen guesses it’s that serious which Gabi confirms.

Philip, wearing his military uniform, runs in to Brady in the park. Philip informs him that he just came from the Memorial Day ceremony at the cemetery. Brady thanks him for his service and asks him if he’s okay. Philip responds that he’s not.

Sarah walks in to the Kiriakis Mansion and questions what Xander is doing there. Xander announces to Sarah that he’s moving back in and explains that his apartment had water damage from the sprinkler system. Sarah argues that it would make things incredibly awkward for everyone and asks why he can’t just stay at the Salem Inn. Xander questions why he should do that when he could stay in his old home and be close to his daughter and her.

Jada meets Amy at the Pub and says she’s terribly sorry but the search and recovery operation for Sophia has been called off because the team has determined there is almost no chance of recovering her remains. Amy argues that she said almost which means there’s still hope and insists they have to keep looking. Jada says the team they have is the best there is and they assured her that continuing the effort wouldn’t change the outcome. Jada repeats that she is so very sorry.

Jack informs Jennifer that Chad shared with him that Gwen was hurt by thinking he wanted nothing to do with her and she was right. Jennifer asks if that’s changed. Jack talks about it being 4 years since losing Abigail. Jack says he’s had so many regrets and he can’t keep adding to them, so he told Gwen that he wanted to have a relationship with her. Jack says that Gwen is open to the idea and asks if Jennifer is.

Sarah complains that she doesn’t get it and asks Xander why he’d want to be closer to her when they are divorced. Xander argues that it’s for their daughter. Sarah says their set up with the nanny has been fine while Xander thinks it would be better if they were all together under one roof.

Philip tells Brady about Gabi. Brady says he’s stunned while Philip says he feels stupid for believing Gabi wouldn’t lie to him about something this huge. Brady says he’s sorry she did this to him and Titan. Philip acknowledges that they both played dirty in the past and thought that made them compatible and made him off limits as a target. Philip declares that he stupidly believed he could trust Gabi and now their family could lose everything.

JJ tells Shawn that he has a solid plan in the works but he’s not quite ready to put it out there yet. JJ adds that every day he wishes he could go back and change what happened the night Shawn was shot. Shawn knows his remorse is real and insists that at some point, he has to move on. Shawn assures that he’s not holding any grudge against him whatsoever and that they are good. Shawn wants JJ to stop looking backwards and start looking forward. JJ responds that he’s trying.

Jack knows how Jennifer feels about Gwen but says this is something he felt he needed to do. Jennifer says she completely understands that he wants a relationship with his daughter. Jennifer then admits it makes her feel envious because she misses Abigail and she always feels envious when she sees a mother and daughter. Jennifer says she would do anything to have a daughter again while Jack still has that. Jennifer says she loves Jack and knows he’s also suffered so much in losing Abigail, so she really wants this for him and she wants to support him and be happy for him. Jennifer agrees to really try as they hug.

Amy tells Jada that she refuses to accept this and tells Jada to get out there and find her daughter. Roman comes over and asks if everything is okay. Jada informs Roman that she just had to tell Amy that the search and recovery mission for Sophia has been called off. Roman says he’s worn that badge and knows how heartbreaking it is. Roman promises Amy that this does not mean the police will forget about Sophia. Jada adds that the investigation is ongoing. Amy asks if they found anything else. Jada reveals they found the gun in the river and it was the same gun used to pistol whip Johnny. Amy questions why she’s just now hearing about this and where Sophia would get a gun which Jada calls a good question.

Philip sits with Brady and tells him how Gabi kept saying she owed him, that she was partnering Gabi Chic with Titan even though DiMera gave a better offer, and that if she got Stefan’s inheritance, she wanted to give him a chunk of it but it was guilt and trying to make up for what she did or what he was dumb enough to let her do. Brady thinks he’s being too hard on himself and Gabi should be the one beating herself up, which he bets is exactly what she’s doing right now.

Gabi tells Gwen that her and Philip are over forever. Gwen asks what happened. Gabi responds that she betrayed him in a way that he’d never forgive. Gwen asks if she cheated. Gabi assures she loves him so she’d never do that, but it was something she did in the beginning that she wishes she could take back and says she would take the chance to self destruct. Gwen tells her to join the club.

Xander asks if Sarah doesn’t think it would be better for Victoria to live in one home with both of her parents who love her and a stable environment. Sarah argues that it would be a farce and make everything way worse. Xander asks if she’s afraid they will fight or if she’s afraid of something else.

Brady tells Philip that he and Gabi love each other and asks if there’s really no chance he could forgive her. Philip informs her that he kicked her out of the house and told her he never wants to see or hear from her again. Brady encourages him to give it time and his feelings might change. Philip can’t see ever getting past this.

Gabi tells Gwen that she’s been babbling about herself for too long and asks what’s going on with her. Gwen says there’s some good stuff and some not so good stuff, so Gabi suggests starting with the good. Gwen informs her that Jack came to see her and wants to try to rebuild a relationship. Gabi says that’s great but asks what that means exactly. Gwen admits she’s not sure but she wants to find out. Gwen says she doesn’t get many second chances, so she will not waste it.

Jennifer tells Jack that he’s right that it’s been almost four years and she has so much anger, so she has to figure out a way to let it go. Jennifer says her anger is like a candle she’s lit for Abigail and she’s afraid if she lets the flame go out, it will be like starting to forget her. Jack assures they will never forget her and never stop loving or missing her. Jack states that living in a constant state of fury and resentment is not the way to honor Abigail’s memory. Jennifer agrees that Abigail wouldn’t want that and she does want to move on which means she has to let go of all of her grudges and she has to support him if he wants to be in Gwen’s life. Jack thanks her.

JJ asks Shawn how he got to the town square. Shawn informs him that Jada dropped him off. JJ asks how it’s going living together. Shawn clarifies that he’s just crashing at her place until he can get back on his own feet. Shawn says it’s been strictly in the friend zone and that Jada has been amazing and patient with his recovery, so he doesn’t know how he’d do this without her. JJ says if she ever needs a day off, he’ll be there. Shawn says the same to him because they are family and friends.

Jada explains that the FBI used a forensics technique that allowed them to obtain evidence from the gun even though it had been in the river and they found Sophia’s fingerprints along with Johnny’s blood. Roman feels there has to be a way to trace it to the original owner but Jada says the serial number had come off. Roman asks where a teenager would get a gun like that. Jada says she doesn’t know but she intends to find out.

Sarah reminds Xander that she’s happily with another man. Xander calls it interesting that her mind went there. Sarah says she has no problem being around him, so Xander questions what the problem is then. Xander argues that Maggie already let Philip move back in, so they can’t stop him from staying in a home that’s legally half his. Sarah tells him to just stay out of her way then and tells him not to dare to bring Gwen or any other women he’s sleeping with. Xander questions it being fine for him to bring Brady around. Sarah tells him not to even try to compare the two as Brady then appears in the room.

JJ goes home where Jack and Jennifer greet him with hugs. They talk about being glad to be back in Salem. JJ asks if they came to check on him. Jack says talking on the phone isn’t nearly the same as in person. JJ guesses they are concerned because of what happened in the past and appreciates that they care, but he assures he’s doing better than he’s been in a long time.

Jada joins Shawn in the town square and asks how breakfast with JJ went. Shawn says it was good and that JJ is obviously still holding onto some of the weight of what happened, but he assured him that he doesn’t blame him for anything and he thinks JJ turned a corner. Shawn asks about Jada meeting up with Amy. Jada says she just finished telling her that her daughter’s body will probably never be found. Shawn calls that the worst part of the job.

Philip goes to the Pub where Roman thanks him for his service. Philip thanks Roman for everything he did for Memorial Day. Roman tells him to help himself as he heads to the kitchen. Philip approaches Amy and says he’s very sorry for her loss. Amy asks if they’ve met. Philip apologizes and introduces himself as Tate’s uncle. Amy knows she’s heard his name before and says she’s so glad she ran in to him.

Gabi asks Gwen about what her bad stuff is. Gwen responds that she made an ill advised deal with her ex as she and Xander agreed to be not friends with benefits. Gabi jokes that if she’s going to do no strings sex with someone, Xander is an excellent choice. Gabi questions how that’s a bad thing and then realizes that Gwen caught feelings.

Brady asks what’s going on. Sarah informs him that Xander is moving in which Brady questions. Xander tells him there’s water damage at his place and that Sarah was just giving him a passionate speech about why it’s a bad idea for him to move in to his old home and he thinks she’s afraid of what might happen. Brady says he has a solution since Xander needs to get settled in, so he and Sarah will just go to his place.

JJ tells Jack and Jennifer that for the past few weeks, he’s been thinking about his career choices. JJ talks about thinking he was ready to go back to being a cop but he wasn’t, so he quit and wasn’t in a great place for awhile but talking to them and Julie helped him come out of it by reminding him that he’s started over before. JJ says he didn’t necessarily want to be a cop, he just wanted to do some good and he still does. JJ wants to serve the public, just not with a gun. JJ brings up how he used to be an EMT and that was meaningful, so he decide to get re-certified. JJ announces he has applied to rejoin the Salem Fire Department which thrills Jack and Jennifer. Jack hugs JJ as they tell him how proud they are of him.

Jada tells Shawn that something doesn’t add up because Sophia was a deeply troubled young woman but she wasn’t apart of some crime syndicate. Shawn wonders if Sophia might have been working with someone else. Jada says nothing points to that and going by what she told Johnny, her motives were her own, but clearly they are missing something.

Amy tells Philip that she wants to ask him a personal question. Amy says that her daughter fell in the Salem river and is now missing, so she was doing research in to what it takes to survive a fall like that and came across Philip’s name. Amy asks Philip how he did it and to tell her everything he did to stay alive. Philip responds that he’s sorry, but he can’t.

Gwen admits to Gabi that unfortunately, her feelings for Xander have returned despite her best efforts to keep it casual while Xander just wants sex and no mess. Gwen says it’s her own damn fault as she knew what she was getting in to and thought it would be cool to just sleep with Xander even though he’s still in love with his ex-wife. Gabi assures that Xander cares about her. Gwen says maybe at one point he did, but just like everyone else, it doesn’t last long so she’s used to it. Gwen says she’s just always told herself to do what she needs to do to survive. Gwen admits she does want to feel wanted by someone and she does need love.

Sarah declares that she just wants to take a nap and some peace and quiet which Brady says she will get at his place. Sarah then goes to get her things while Xander questions Brady as to why he cares where he sleeps and if he has a problem with him staying in the Kiriakis Mansion.

Gabi advises Gwen to find someone who will give her what she needs and to be completely honest with that person and learn from her mistake with Philip. Gabi says she has to get going while Gwen plans to drink away her feelings. They wish each other luck. Gabi tells Gwen that it’s Xander’s loss as she exits.

Brady tells Xander that he doesn’t have a problem with him staying there and that nothing he does is going to change a thing. Xander says they’ll see about that. Sarah comes back, so Brady exits with her.

Amy asks Philip why he can’t tell her. Philip responds that he never fell in to the river. He calls it a long story, but the short version is that he staged his murder to frame someone else. Philip reveals that he threw his prosthetic leg in the water, so everyone assumed the worst. Philip explains that he was in the middle of a mental health crisis and not thinking clearly. Amy responds that Sophia was in a dark place too. She hopes Philip is better now. He confirms he got the help he needed. Amy wishes Sophia accepted help and that she knew how much she needed it. Philip points out the Memorial Day table and what it represents. Amy says that she does have faith as she has to believe that Sophia is still alive and she would do anything to hold her again.

Jack and Jennifer talk to JJ about how when he tried to take his own life almost a decade ago, the worry never goes away. JJ understands and gives his word that he’s not going to hurt himself, assuring that he’s in a much better place now. JJ credits the care and support of the people who love him, especially them.

Shawn tells Jada that maybe it’s time to start thinking outside the box when it comes to Sophia getting the gun and adds that he can always ask Steve to look in to it as well. Jada reminds him that he’s on medical leave and says they can talk about the case later, but for now, it’s time to get him home so they walk off together.

Philip exits the Pub as Gabi comes by and sees him in his uniform, commenting that he looks like a real hero and thanks him for his service. Philip tells Gabi to save it because faithful and loyal don’t apply to her.

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Days Update Friday, May 22, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Kayla and Steve sit together at the Brady Pub. Kayla asks if they should order for Stephanie too while Steve talks about how long it takes to get Stephanie out of the house for a trip. Kayla asks about their son Joey. Steve says he texted that he would meet them at the airport gate in Seattle when they arrive. Kayla says then they will be on to China. Steve assures it will be a big beautiful wedding. Kayla gets a text from Stephanie that she’ll be on her way soon and is just getting organized. Steve says it’s good they have plenty of time before heading to the airport. Kayla hopes Stephanie isn’t too disappointed that Alex is staying behind. Steve thinks with everything going on with Joy and the baby, that’s a good call. Steve adds that it will be great for Stephanie to get out of Salem and spend some time with family. Kayla hopes she can come back and turn a whole new page.

Stephanie packs her bag at home and then finds a gift box inside. Alex comes in and says she wasn’t supposed to see that until she got to China. Alex calls it just something to remember him by as she kisses him.

Gwen gets out of the shower and hears a knock at the door. She opens the door expecting Xander but is surprised to see her father Jack instead.

Xander goes to the Kiriakis Mansion and sits on the couch in the living room. Gabi comes in and asks what he’s doing there. Xander says he’s just trying to get a moment of peace. Gabi asks what happened to his arm. Xander calls it nothing compared to the sprinklers going off in his apartment. Xander says there was so much water, he won’t be able to stay there for weeks so he came here. Gabi jokes that she’s sure Maggie and Sarah will be thrilled. Xander asks why he can’t stay here if Gabi and Philip can, since it is his family home after all. Gabi responds that his timing is perfect since there’s about to be a vacancy because she’s moving out.

Roman brings Steve and Kayla a traditional Chinese breakfast to get them ready for their trip. They talk about Steve being familiar with it from his time in Asia with Bo. Steve calls it nice of Roman to send them off in style. Kayla asks Steve if he’s heard from Tripp. Steve confirms he is really excited they are all coming, but noted that Ava is driving him crazy by obsessing over all the details. Steve states that he and Ava will be civil and that Ava isn’t the same person she was when she first came to Salem. Steve supposes they’ve all changed a bit over the years. Kayla says the one thing that hasn’t changed is knowing Steve was always there to protect her, just like in the beginning, 40 years ago which they flash back to. Steve tells Kayla that he will always protect her. Kayla says this trip has really got her thinking about their first voyage to the far East which they also flash back to their honeymoon in Thailand.

Stephanie opens Alex’s gift which he calls another way for them to stay in touch as it’s an app that will alert her when he messages her. She opens the lid to see a screen with a message from Alex that says “I miss you already.” Stephanie says she won’t be long but she’s glad to have his heart while she’s gone as they kiss.

Gwen tells Jack that she heard he and Jennifer were in town, but she wasn’t expecting he would show up at her door, so she asks why he’s there.

Xander questions why Gabi is moving out. Gabi reveals that she and Philip broke up in spectacular fashion. Xander asks what happened. Gabi is sure he’ll hear about it soon enough, so she might as well tell him that Philip found out the truth that she’s the reason the DiMera-Titan merger was blown to Hell.

Steve and Kayla talk about when they had to learn sign language and flash back to their wedding. They talk about helping each other brave and needing to learn Chinese.

Stephanie thanks Alex for her gift. Alex jokes that he’ll be sending her messages before her plane even hits the ground. Stephanie asks if he’s sure he’s okay with not coming. Alex assures that he wishes he could but knows it’s not the best time to leave the country. Stephanie agrees that he has to start getting to know his daughter. Stephanie assures she will miss him every minute that she’s gone. Stephanie knows today is his first official visit with Kelsey, so she got her a little something which is a book that Julie swears will be a hit. Alex calls that really sweet and thanks her. Stephanie wants them to have a great visit and says she looks forward to being there for the next one.

Jack tells Gwen that he heard about her divorce and that she moved out of the DiMera Mansion. Gwen asks who told him. Jack says it was Chad, who also told him that Gwen felt like he only has room for one daughter in his life, but says that is not true. Jack says there’s not a day that goes by that he doesn’t think about the daughter he lost, but Gwen is also his daughter and she’s here, alive and well. Jack knows they have had their ups and downs, but they are coming up on the 4th anniversary of Abigail’s death. Jack declares that this year, he wants that day to be different. Jack says there will always be pain and sorrow, but maybe there could also be hope. Jack tells Gwen that she is not lost, she is here, and he’s kept his distance long enough. Jack wants to explore the possibility of a meaningful relationship as father and daughter, if she’s interested.

Gabi explains to Xander that after she bugged their office, she gave the intel to Tony and he was in turn supposed to name her as CEO, but instead he screwed her over and named Theo. Gabi admits she is the reason that Victor’s company and the whole house was in jeopardy. Gabi says they both know Xander isn’t shy about venting his anger, so he can go ahead and let her have it because she deserves it. Xander responds that he’s not going to do anything to her because he’s been working on his anger issues in therapy. Xander assures that he is very angry and he wants to tear the room apart, but he’s not going to do that. Xander says he’s going to employ the techniques he’s learned to remain calm. Xander adds that he’s had ample opportunity to practice those techniques because quite a few people in Salem make him very angry, but he didn’t expect Gabi to be one of them as he considered her a friend. Gabi says she considered him one too and brings up how sweet he was when Arianna was missing, so that’s why she feels so bad. Xander admits that he hates being on the receiving end but her techniques are impressive and that he probably would’ve done the same thing. Gabi wishes she could take back what she did, but she let her greed and ambition get the best of her. Xander remarks that at least she got to walk away with Gabi Chic. Gabi calls that her consolation prize from Tony and complains that she was so stupid to trust him. Gabi then reveals that Tony just offered her the CEO job again, but this time she turned it down because she didn’t want to compete against the man she loved. Xander asks if she will change her mind now that she and Philip are over. Gabi says no because she still doesn’t trust Tony and she never wants to screw over the people who were so good to her again.

Gwen asks Jack what Jennifer would have to say about them having a meaningful relationship. Jack admits that Jennifer doesn’t know he’s here, but he knows she would never begrudge him the opportunity to reach out to her like this. Gwen argues that she would because she absolutely despises her and she knows that’s why Jack has been keeping his distance, because Jennifer wouldn’t handle them being close very well and would hate it.

Alex asks Stephanie if they should head to the Pub to pick up her parents so they don’t miss their flight. Stephanie says they have a little time and suggests he make her heart spin right now as they head to the bedroom.

Kayla asks Steve for a preview of his wedding speech. Steve responds that he was thinking he would tell Tripp and Wendy that nothing can prepare them for what’s to come. Kayla asks if he’s trying to scare them. Steve says he would also say the lack of predictability can be scary, but it’s actually the best part and what makes life interesting. Steve adds the more you go through with your partner, the more you realize there’s no one you’d rather go through it with. Kayla agrees they have been through a lot as they have more flashbacks. Steve jokes that there’s never a dull moment in their marriage.

Xander questions why Gabi decided to tell him about this. Gabi repeats that he’d find out soon enough as it’s only a matter of time before Philip told him. Gabi reveals her belief that Theo told Philip because he’s one of the only people who knew and she saw Theo talking to Philip minutes before Philip was ripping her to shreds. Xander questions when Theo found out. Gabi admits Tony told him months ago and he promised not to say anything but she believes he obviously changed his mind. Xander questions why Theo would tell Philip now after all this time. Gabi flashes back to reading Theo’s journal about his feelings for her. Gabi then tells Xander that she has a few ideas.

Jack tells Gwen that he doesn’t want to speculate on how Jennifer will react to him extending himself to her like this, but he wants Jennifer to support him in everything he does. Jack adds that what happens between them will be between them. Jack acknowledges that he’s been forgiven for some despicable things, so the least he can do is extend that same grace to his own daughter, who he does love. Gwen gets emotional about Jack calling her his daughter. Jack declares that she is and always will be, even if she doesn’t want to be. Gwen tearfully assures that she does want that very much.

Kayla tells Steve that they haven’t even talked about what has really kept their marriage interesting; their kids. Steve talks about thinking he was tough until their babies stole his heart as they flash back to Joey and Stephanie’s births. They talk about Stephanie being kidnapped shortly after birth and how they hope now she is safe. Kayla assures that’s behind them and never going to happen again. Stephanie and Alex then arrive to greet them. Stephanie asks what they were talking about. Steve says it’s just that they are so glad she’s here.

Gabi tells Xander that Henderson packed her things, so she should get going before Philip comes back. Gabi adds that she hopes Sarah is cool with Xander being there. Xander thinks it will be good for both of them and convenient with Victoria. Gabi remarks that the place is definitely big enough for all of them.

Gwen apologizes for being unusually emotional lately and blames her divorce because it brings up old familiar feelings of being unwanted and unloved. Jack assures that he’s here to tell her that she is wanted and loved. Jack knows they can’t just rebuild their relationship like that, but he really does want to try. Gwen says that makes two of them as they hug.

Roman returns to Steve and Kayla’s table. Stephanie talks about being beyond excited to go to Tripp’s wedding and admits she usually cries before the ceremony even begins. Roman talks about Kayla also loving weddings. Steve jokes that it’s good they had so many then. Stephanie asks which one was her favorite. Kayla says they were all great and can’t choose. Roman jokes that they should keep the streak going to Steve says they can start planning now. Kayla says she’s good and just wants to be a guest now, first at Tripp and Wendy’s wedding, then coming back to celebrate Stephanie and Alex which they say they can’t wait for.

After Jack leaves, Gwen grabs her phone and goes to Xander’s name.

Gabi says she’s going to see if Henderson needs any help with her bags and wishes Xander luck. Xander stops Gabi and says he may be new and improved, her betrayal guarantees he will always hold her in contempt and he will hold a grudge so deeply that she will feel it every time she breathes. Gabi repeats how deeply she regrets what she did. Gabi adds that if she does succeed in claiming Stefan’s inheritance, she plans to financially compensate Titan to at least make up for some of the damage she caused. Gabi then exits the mansion. Xander then gets a call from Gwen, who suggests they get together, but Sarah walks in to the Kiriakis Mansion and questions what Xander is doing there. Xander tells Gwen it’s not a great time as he hangs up and announces to Sarah that he’s moving back in.

Jack goes to the Brady Pub and says he’s glad he caught Steve and Kayla before they left. Steve says he was hoping they’d see him before they took off. Jack asks for a moment with Steve so they step aside. Jack tells Steve that he couldn’t let him leave without giving him something for his nephew and his bride. Jack says he thought it’d be best to go with a Chinese tradition. Steve opens the envelope and says he really went with that tradition. Jack says he and Jennifer wanted them to start their new life out right. Steve hugs him and says he really appreciates that. Alex comes over and says they should get to the airport. Jack says he should get going too and exits. Steve goes to pay their check. Alex asks Stephanie if she has everything. Stephanie says she thinks so. Alex jokes about sending her so many messages. Stephanie assures she will hurry back. Roman comes back and tells Steve that his money is no good here as he wishes them safe travels. Roman tells them to have a good time in China, take lots of pictures, and give his love to Tripp and Wendy. Steve asks Kayla if she’s ready for another adventure. Kayla says with him by her side, always. They say they love each other as they kiss and then exit the Pub.

Happy 40th Anniversary Mary Beth Evans (Kayla)!

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Days Update Thursday, May 21, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Xander and Gwen wake up in bed together. Gwen mentions planning to have some fun last night and going to freshen up, but when she came back, Xander was out. Xander apologizes and says he took a pain pill for his elbow that knocked him out. Gwen notes that he never told her how he hurt his elbow. Xander thinks back to being tied up while having sex with Kristen, but then tells Gwen that it was just from an overzealous workout.

Kristen sits in the living room of the DiMera Mansion with the chess board that Stefano left for Marlena. Kristen looks up at Stefano’s portrait and wonders what kind of game he’s playing.

EJ runs in to Theo outside of the Brady Pub. Theo asks about Johnny. EJ informs him that Johnny was discharged from the hospital yesterday. Theo says that’s good, but he just wishes Tony would reconsider replacing Johnny at DiMera, which is news to EJ.

At Titan, Philip finishes a phone call saying they just made someone he cares about very happy. Philip then texts Gabi to meet him in the town square as he has some news.

Gabi walks through the town square and texts Philip that she’s already there. Gabi then finds Julie and says she was hoping they could have a word. Tony and Anna walk in to the town square as Anna questions why Tony is staring at Gabi. Tony explains that he’s a bit peeved at Gabi for turning down his offer to be CEO of DiMera. Anna questions why she would do that. Tony calls it a conflict of interest as Gabi doesn’t want to compete against Titan since she’s dating Philip. Anna is surprised and questions them dating after everything Gabi did to his company. Tony points out that as far as he knows, Philip has no idea that Gabi bugged his office. Anna questions if Tony plans to stay in Salem as CEO himself then. Tony argues that he doesn’t have much option, so he has to step up to the plate until he finds someone suitable to run DiMera Enterprises. Tony can’t imagine that will take too long, but Anna calls it unacceptable.

Paulina goes to the hospital to meet Lexie, who identifies her as her husband’s new wife.

Gwen tells Xander that she does appreciate the results of his workouts. They go to kiss but Xander gets a pain in his elbow and suggests they just talk for now. Gwen asks what’s on his mind. Xander asks what Gwen meant by wanting to add value to their arrangement.

Kristen texts Xander that she’s heading to the Salem Inn if he wants to pop in to her room.

EJ angrily questions Tony pushing Johnny out of DiMera. Theo thought EJ knew. EJ asks who Tony plans to replace Johnny with. Theo reveals that Tony asked Gabi, but she turned him down. EJ calls that unlike her and asks who else is on Tony’s list. Theo says he has no idea and that he’s just the messenger. EJ thanks Theo for keeping him in the loop. Theo mentions meeting Abe for breakfast so EJ says they’ll catch up soon as Theo heads in to the Pub.

Anna goes to see Philip at Titan, which he calls a surprise. Anna asks if he has a minute because she has something to discuss with him. Philip says it’s not a good time as he’s about to go meet Gabi. Anna calls that a coincidence because she wants to talk to him about Gabi. Anna says it’s come to her attention that Tony offered Gabi the CEO position at DiMera after her claim to still be Stefan’s widow. Philip admits that Gabi never mentioned this to him. Anna says she figured as much and that Gabi turned down the job, but she hoped they could do something about that.

Gabi tells Julie that she knows she’s not fond of her but she knows Julie loves Arianna, so she’s appealing to the side of her that has a heart. Julie questions what Gabi wants.

Theo meets Abe in the Pub and says he’s glad they have one on one time to actually talk. Theo asks if he’s thought about what’s next with Lexie and Paulina. Abe talks about being so happy to have Lexie back as he never stopped loving her. Theo points out that he loves Paulina too. Abe talks about having to also consider Theo, Lani, and Chanel which Theo calls a cop out.

Paulina tells Lexie that it’s nice to meet her even though it’s awkward for them and says she wants to clear the air that she is happy for her, Theo, and Abe that she’s back. Lexie asks if Abe knows she’s here. Paulina says no because she didn’t want him to feel obliged to play referee. Lexie takes it that means she wants the gloves off then. Paulina says she’s not spoiling for a fight but Lexie says she is. Lexie asks if Paulina thought she was going to give up her husband without a fight. Paulina says of course not. Lexie admits that she’s grateful to Paulina that Abe had someone to look out for him while she was gone because 15 years is a long time to be alone. Lexie thanks Paulina for being a companion to Abe. Lexie adds that she knows how disorienting this is for her and that she built a life with Abe while she was gone, but she’s back now and not going anywhere.

Julie tells Gabi that she asked Liam where he had been when the police were looking for him and he just said he crashed with a friend, but she had no idea it was Arianna. Gabi complains that she thought a gunshot wound would’ve been enough for Arianna. Gabi says she knows she’s in no position to ask Julie for a favor but she’s the only one she can go to. Julie questions what she expects her to do about it. Gabi explains that she’s trying to entice Liam to leave town but he says he can’t because the court is making him finish his tutoring sessions with Julie, so she was wondering if those sessions could be done virtually.

Philip tells Anna that if Gabi isn’t interested in being CEO of DiMera, she obviously doesn’t want to get involved with her in-laws again and he doesn’t blame her. Anna tells him that is not why Gabi turned it down and that she turned it down because of being loyal to Philip and out of guilt. Philip argues that Gabi has nothing to feel guilty about. Anna then responds that she does because she’s the reason that Titan is in this whole mess in the first place.

Gwen tells Xander that the hospital board is up in arms over EJ’s experiments and now that her divorce with Dimitri is finalized, she has come in to a lot of money, so she figured since Xander tried to outbid EJ on the hospital last year, they could team up and ditch their friends with benefits thing to become business partners.

Kristen goes to leave the DiMera Mansion right as EJ comes home and yells for Harold, asking if he’s seen Tony. Kristen asks what’s going on. EJ says he’s going to stop Tony as he storms in to the living room.

Theo tells Abe not to use them as an excuse and the longer he waits, the more it will hurt. Theo adds that before he makes any decision, he deserves to know all the facts. Theo then reveals that he’s not the only one EJ told about Lexie and that Paulina knew weeks ago.

Julie tells Gabi that she’s no stranger to video conferencing and sees no reason that she couldn’t do the tutoring virtually, but she’d have to get the district attorney’s office to sign off on it. Gabi thanks her and tells her how much it means to her. Julie clarifies that she’s not doing it for her, but for Arianna. Julie agrees that the combination of Arianna and Liam is not the best so maybe Liam leaving town for a fresh start will work out. Gabi thanks her as Julie remarks that despite her efforts to murder her, she’s never doubted that she loves her daughter. Julie declares that wanting what’s best for Arianna is what they have in common.

Abe questions Paulina knowing about Lexie. Theo clarifies that she didn’t know from the beginning but once she started digging in to how much power EJ’s lab was using, EJ had no choice but to tell her the truth. Theo adds that EJ practically begged Paulina to expose what he was doing but she couldn’t do it. Theo says she couldn’t do it to make them happy and declares that Paulina is the reason Lexie is alive.

Paulina says she knows this might be overwhelming and she understands if Lexie feels a bit threatened. Lexie responds that she does not feel threatened by her. Paulina tells her to watch herself while Lexie says she has no interest in tearing her down. Lexie remarks that she wouldn’t need to with her reputation and brings up reading that Paulina tried to manipulate Abe in to tearing down the town square and stealing his job. Paulina argues against that and says what’s important is that she and Abe support each other 100%. Lexie declares that in that case, she won’t think twice about stepping back and letting Abe reclaim the life that was cruely taken from him and reunite with his family without getting in the way.

EJ tells Kristen about Tony offering Gabi the CEO position which Kristen agrees is outrageous. Kristen asks why Tony didn’t just ask her to be CEO if he’s determined to keep it in the family which EJ laughs at.

Xander questions if Gwen is really interested in owning a hospital or if it’s her way of cementing their relationship. Gwen says he’s made his feelings or lack of abundantly clear and tells him to get his ego in check as she wouldn’t just shell out millions to cement anything with him. Gwen says she just thought buying the hospital could be a fantastic investment for both of them. Gwen thinks back to arguing with EJ about changing their deal. Gwen then tells Xander about the revenge against EJ aspect which Xander admits makes it very tempting. Xander says unfortunately, Titan doesn’t have the funds to even consider it.

Philip questions Anna saying that Gabi is the reason Titan’s in this mess and what that’s supposed to mean. Anna claims that she just meant Gabi could’ve joined forces with him when Tony gave her back the company instead of going solo. Anna then tries to hurry out but Philip stops her and says he doesn’t think that’s it at all as he questions what she’s not telling him. Anna tries to say it’s nothing but Philip demands the truth now. Anna then tells Philip that she’s privy to a lot of the backdoor dealings he had with Tony, so she knows that Tony was only able to get DiMera back because he found out about Philip’s fraud. Philip says that was because someone bugged their office and asks if Anna is saying it was Gabi. Anna says she shouldn’t have opened her big mouth and she didn’t mean to tell him this way. Philip realizes it had to be Gabi as she had access to the office. Anna then admits it’s true and declares that Gabi is the reason that Philip’s family lost almost everything.

Paulina talks about how everyone said Lexie was innocent and pure but she’s a real fighter and she is too. Paulina then tells Lexie that if she thought she’d be pulling out the claws to fight for her man, she’ll be disappointed because she’s stepping aside. Paulina acknowledges that Lexie is Abe’s wife so she’s not standing in the way of their happily ever after. Paulina calls Lexie coming back a miracle and says it should be a joyous one for Abe and Theo. Paulina declares that her being there complicates things so she’s taking herself out of the equation. Lexie doesn’t know what to say and thanks her. Paulina tells her just to not make her regret her decision as she then exits the room.

Xander tells Gwen that he’s just not the guy she’s looking for. Xander admits the uncomplicated dynamic between them is starting to feel anything but. Gwen decides what they have now suits her just fine and kisses him. Xander thinks he smells burnt toast. Gwen says it’s probably the neighbors as they continue kissing until the fire alarm goes off and the sprinkler system releases water onto them.

EJ tells Kristen that her being CEO would be a PR issue since the entire world thinks she tried to murder him. Kristen argues that their PR team has dealt with much worse and she has the experience. EJ brings up her most recent stint ending up with Titan taking over the company. Kristen says that wasn’t her fault since EJ distracted them all by getting himself shot. Kristen adds that Rachel never would’ve done it if EJ never abducted her mother. EJ questions doing this again and asks if she ever wondered where Rachel learned such sociopathic behavior. Kristen argues that Rachel has never seen her point a gun and wonders where Johnny learned that behavior from. Kristen says screw this and declares that she’s team Tony so she’s fine with whoever he names as CEO as long as it’s not EJ’s son.

Theo runs in to Philip in the town square. Theo says he knows he’s no longer at DiMera but hoped he could put in a good word about the lawsuit. Julie gets a text and tells Gabi that she has to get home as Jack and Jennifer are coming home soon. Gabi thanks Julie again for the help. Julie walks away, then Gabi turns around to see Philip talking with Theo. As Theo walks away, Gabi happily approaches Philip and greets him with a kiss. Gabi asks about Philip saying he had news which he says he sure does.

Kristen goes to the Salem Inn and finds Gwen pacing and wet in the hallway, so she questions what the hell happened to her.

Tony goes to the DiMera Mansion where EJ confronts him about trying to oust Johnny as CEO and questions him not consulting him about this. Tony responds that EJ has no say since he owns the company and EJ made it clear that he wasn’t interested in the job. EJ responds that he’s sure as hell interested now.

Theo goes to the hospital and checks on Lexie. Lexie says she’s feeling better than ever as she has some news. Lexie informs him that Paulina stopped by and agreed to step aside because she doesn’t want to get in the way of them becoming a family again. Lexie figured Theo would be happy to hear this. Theo says he is, but his heart breaks for Paulina.

Abe goes home, where Paulina announces she is moving out.

Philip congratulates Gabi on officially being a DiMera heir as they confirmed Vivian forged Stefan’s signatures on her divorce papers. Gabi can’t believe this and goes to hug him but he steps back. Philip remarks that she’s a DiMera through and through which Gabi questions. Philip reveals he was this close to not telling Gabi that she was still married to Stefan when he died. Gabi questions why he wouldn’t tell her the truth. Philip says he thought about letting her live a lie like she’s been doing to him this whole time, but he figured the truth would come out eventually as it always does. Gabi says she doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Philip reveals that he knows Gabi planted the bug in his office and gave Tony the proof of fraud to take back his company, so he knows she’s the reason that he and Xander lost DiMera.

Tony tells EJ that he appreciates his interest but he’s afraid it’s too late for that. EJ questions why since Tony practically begged him to take the reins back before. Tony recalls EJ being too busy running the hospital and asks if that’s no longer the case. EJ responds that he’s still working on bringing Lexie back and it is quite demanding, but he can make the time. Tony brings up when DiMera was in crisis. EJ accuses Tony of punishing him for not swooping in to save the day last year. Tony responds that he’s not as petty as him, but he has high standards so it’s important for him to know that whoever is running DiMera Enterprises has a consistent and steady hand to run it like a business venture and not an extension of their ego. EJ tells Tony not to pretend he’s not enjoying this power trip. EJ states that Tony may own the company, but he is the heir apparent and warns Tony to remember that.

Gwen informs Kristen that the fire sprinklers went off in Xander’s place. Kristen jokes that things got that hot. Gwen says she wishes but a stupid neighbor burnt toast and set off the fire alarm. Kristen asks if Xander came with her but Gwen says he had quite the mess to clean up. Kristen asks how Xander’s elbow is. Gwen says he’s still in pain, then questions how she knew about that. Kristen explains that she ran in to him at the hospital while she was visiting Lexie. Gwen asks how Lexie is. Kristen says she’s still unexpectedly alive. Kristen tells Gwen that she can go ahead and shower and change clothes. Gwen then guesses Kristen is trying to get rid of her because the mystery man she’s been hooking up with is on his way. Kristen admits that she invited someone over, so Gwen tells her to give her the details later. Gwen then walks away as Xander walks up and tells Kristen that he thought she would never leave. Xander and Kristen then begin kissing in to her room. Kristen comments on how that was so close and says she wouldn’t have texted him if she knew he was with Gwen. Xander feels she still would have. Kristen admits she’s surprised he ditched Gwen and asks if she’s not doing it for him anymore. Xander says it’s not that but Gwen caught feelings. Xander reminds her to be careful with his elbow. Kristen promises to be very gentle this time as they kiss onto her bed.

Gabi tries to explain while Philip yells at her not to lie to him again. Philip complains that he poured his heart out to her about how bad he felt about what he had done while she stood there and said nothing about what she had done to him. Philip tells her that there’s nothing to explain and that he might’ve forgiven her if she had told him the truth but not now. Gabi asks who told him. Philip says it doesn’t matter as she only has herself to blame. Philip declares that she’s done with Gabi, never wants to see her again, and he wants her gone from his family’s house immediately. Philip orders her to pack her things and get the hell out as he storms off.

Anna goes home to Tony at the DiMera Mansion and informs him that she just paid a visit to Philip Kiriakis and she might have blurted out something he told her in confidence, that Gabi was his corporate spy. Anna says she didn’t tell him that Tony put her up to it, so there’s no legal jeopardy on his end and the only thing in dire straits now is Philip and Gabi’s relationship. Anna adds that since Philip will want nothing to do with Gabi now, there’s nothing stopping her from taking the CEO job and they can go back to Europe. Tony stops Anna and argues that Gabi is going to think he is the one that told Philip and now she’ll never work for him. Anna admits she didn’t think of that.

Lexie tells Theo not to worry about Paulina as she’s tough and will be okay eventually. Theo says he knows but it’s not just Paulina that he feels bad for. Theo talks about always having a hard time with change. Theo says that Lani and Chanel are like sisters to him and Paulina has been there for him, so she’s like family to him too. Lexie says she understands that as they hug.

Abe pleads Paulina to talk about this but Paulina says there’s nothing to talk about as she’s made the decision that she won’t be the reason his family stays apart any longer, because she loves Abe and Theo too much for that. Abe brings up that Theo told him that Paulina knew Lexie was back before they did and how she could’ve stopped EJ or used her office to shut down the experiment, so he questions why she didn’t. Paulina says she never would’ve been able to forgive herself for keeping his wife from him, even though she hated the idea of EJ playing God with her life. Abe argues that now Paulina is playing God with his life. Paulina asks if Abe would’ve made a different decision if she hadn’t. Abe remains silent, so Paulina says she didn’t think so. Paulina says goodbye to Abe and exits.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, June 9, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

When EJ and Gabi stopped arguing, they saw Kristen giving Xander a key. EJ thought it was funny while Gabi was upset for Gwen. He thought it was an open relationship. She said it was a betrayal of Gwen and Kristen’s friendship. Gabi agreed not to tell Gwen what she saw. Leo and Gwen ran into each other at the pub. He was worried about what EJ would do. She told him her plan. Gwen planned on buying the hospital out from under EJ. Her only goal was revenge and looking important to the Bradys and Hortons. Leo said it would look good to Jack too. Gwen told him that Dimitri was threatening her. After Gwen left, she ran into EJ. He said they were allies and didn’t know why she wanted to hurt him. She told him that they were going down if Dimitri found proof of what they did to him. While they were talking, EJ told her that Xander and Kristen were sleeping together. He told her to go to the Salem Inn to see for herself.

Xander and Kristen made love. After they made love, they talked about their kids. While they were talking about Rachel being in Bayview, Gwen knocked on the door. Kristen told her to come in. She said she and Xander were having a meeting. Gwen said EJ sold them out. She ended up believing that nothing was wrong. Alex and Stephanie reunited. She told him about the wedding. When they made out, Joy showed up looking for Kelsey’s stuffed elephant. Alex found the elephant in the apartment. He gave Joy a key to the apartment. He wanted to go back to making out with Stephanie, but she said she was tired. She pretended not to be upset about Joy having the key. Joy lost her phone and went back to Alex and Stephanie’s apartment. Stephanie took a nap while Alex left to run errands. Joy showed up and let herself in the apartment. When Stephanie heard the door open, she grabbed her gun and fired it at Joy.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, June 10, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Stephanie grabbed her gun and shot at Joy. She hit the wall next to the door, and Alex came bursting through the door. Joy informed him that his psycho wife tried to shoot her. Alex noticed the gun and checked on Joy. He wanted answers from Stephanie. Joy said she was okay physically and pointed to the bullet hole in the wall. She told him that the hole could have been her head. Jada and Shawn were on their way home and noticed a bullet hole in the hallway with the bullet casing. They pulled their guns out and went to Alex and Stephanie’s place and took everyone’s statements. Shawn talked to Joy while Jada took Stephanie to another room to talk. Alex tried to downplay the accident. He said there was one bullet in the wall. Joy yelled at him, but she wasn’t in any condition to drive. Alex took her back to get Kelsey. Stephanie understood why she was supposed to keep the gun locked up and away from the case. She didn’t heed the warnings and safety training because she was afraid Owen was going to be there. Jada warned her not to say anything else about it. She warned her not to say anything.

Holly and Tate talk about Amy wanting to charge her. Amy failed to get her charged. They were happy to have the nightmare with Sophia over. Tate signed a new lease to start his business. Holly wanted to be his first client. Gwen showed up and wanted to take defense classes. Melinda joined Amy at Small Bar. She apologized for not listening to her when she told her about Sophia. Amy thought she would still be here if she listened to her. She didn’t know what to do with all of her regret. Melinda told her about what happened with Hayley. She advised Amy not to blame herself. Amy wanted legal advice. Melinda let her know that spending her time avenging Sophia’s death won’t fill the hole she had in her heart. Amy refused to give up on Sophia the way everyone else did. She wanted Melinda to help her get justice for her daughter. Melinda told her that she didn’t have a case. Amy wanted to file a civil suit against Holly. Jada and Shawn took the gun out of Stephanie’s place. Shawn promised to get to the bottom of what happened. Joy rushed to her daughter after she and Alex went to the pub. She didn’t want Stephanie near her daughter ever again.

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Days Short Recap Monday, June 8, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Roman found Kate texting Xander. She lied about what she was doing and told him that she was worried about Lexie and Abe. Arianna talked to Gabi about her internship, and Johnny stepping down as CEO of DiMera Enterprises. Gabi told her that Tony offered her the position. Kate overheard Gabi talking about the position and made a smart comment about it. Arianna tried to keep the peace between them. She told Kate that Gabi regretted what she did to Philip. Gabi agreed with what Arianna said. Kate realized that she needed to fix something and decided to leave. Xander burst into the office to yell at Philip. He said that he was accepting Gabi’s money on his behalf. They got into a huge argument about it. Philip told Xander that he would quit if he took the money. Kate walked in while Philip threatened to quit. She demanded to know what Philip was doing. Kate reminded them that they were supposed to be a united front. She told them that they put their personal and professional lives on the line to be there. Kate turned her anger towards Xander for telling her that he came clean. Philip left the office, and Xander admitted that he told Marlena about setting up Johnny. He told her that Marlena forced him to admit what happened. Xander realized that Marlena was right about him trying to be a better person. He promised he would try not to throw her under the bus. Kate let him know that there wasn’t any way to keep her out of his confession. She stormed out of the office.

EJ went into the tunnels to talk to Dr. Rolf about the experiment. He explained what happened to the rats involved in the experiment. EJ thought Lexie would be the next one to die. Dr. Rolf insisted that Lexie’s blood work and vitals were perfect. He assured EJ that he would do everything in his power to make sure that Lexie survives. Lexie and Kristen caught up with each other. Kristen admitted that she was thankful that EJ made sure to bring her back to life. She thought there was too much testosterone in the family. While Kristen was going off about EJ, Lexie’s hand shook uncontrollably. EJ came out of the tunnels and was worried about Lexie. His concern grew when Lexie said that something was wrong. EJ assured her that she could be fine. He said that Dr. Rolf wanted to examine her. Lexie agreed to get checked out. Gabi was at the town square and ran into EJ. He told her that she would never get Stefan’s inheritance. EJ offered her a settlement, but she refused to take it. Gabi planned to see him in court. As they walked away, EJ and Gabi saw Kristen slip Xander a key card. Dr. Rolf examined Lexie. She didn’t have any strength in her hand. Lexie told him about her symptoms. She was certain there was something wrong with her. Dr. Rolf told her what happened to the rats. Lexie knew what that meant for her. She would do anything if Dr. Rolf would help her. Lexie was determined not to give up.

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Days Update Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Amy Choi has a candle light vigil set up on the bridge with flowers and cards for Sophia. She picks up and reads a card left by Arianna, who wrote that she will never forget their fun times and memories. Amy then picks up another card from Tate where he wrote that he’s remembering the good times and hopes Sophia is at peace now. Sarah then arrives on the bridge.

Chad and Belle meet in the town square for their second date. Belle says she’s glad Chad got to spend time with his kids, but she’s really glad that he’s back.

Cat and EJ are together at Small Bar. Cat brings up the hospital spending reports but EJ says he’d rather not talk about work and asks what the point is when his days as her employer could soon be coming to an end.

Holly and Arianna eat together at the Pub and toast to passing their first year of college. Holly can’t believe she passed after getting a C on her last test. Arianna encourages that it was just one test while Holly complains that she’s felt out of it ever since Sophia drugged her, like she’s walking through life half asleep. Holly adds that she’s having constant images of Sophia in her head even though she’s gone which Arianna relates to.

Liam goes to meet Gabi at the Kiriakis Mansion. Gabi informs him that she has an offer for him, that she doesn’t want Arianna to know about and that he won’t be able to refuse. Liam doesn’t think she has any idea what he can or can’t refuse when she hardly knows anything about him. Gabi responds that she knows enough. Gabi talks about nothing coming easy for him and his son and how he’s made choices to jeopardize their well-being. Gabi says she can relate. Liam points out that things worked out okay for her. Gabi talks about it coming through hard work and the right opportunities, like the one she is about to present to him. Gabi then offers Liam a check for $150,000 if he and his son leave town immediately.

Chad talks to Belle about his trip with his kids. Belle relates to when she and Shawn would travel with Claire when she was the kids’ age. Belle is grateful for the memories. Chad says he feels the same but he’s glad to be back and able to relax for a little while. Chad is sure she’s heard about all the drama at Stefano’s will reading. Belle calls Lexie’s return a miracle. Chad agrees and says it’s all a bit surreal.

EJ explains to Cat that Kayla and the hospital board are dissatisfied with his leadership and are pursuing a course of action to have him sanctioned by the state board because of everything with Lexie as they aren’t happy about his private research being conducted on hospital grounds. EJ adds that if they are successful, he could be forced out as the hospital’s owner. Cat asks what would happen then. EJ says they would be in a very sticky position because if they can’t find a buyer, the hospital could be shut down.

Sarah brought flowers and tells Amy that she hopes it’s okay that she came to pay her respects to Sophia and gives her sincerest sympathies. Amy thanks her and says she keeps finding herself here, no matter where she is heading. Amy guesses she’s looking for any sign of life. Sarah says she understands. Amy argues that without indisputable evidence, nothing will convince her that Sophia is gone and she knows in her heart that she will see her again one day. Sarah responds that she believes that too.

Holly asks Arianna if she’s being haunted by Sophia too. Arianna thinks her drama has a hold on everyone who knew her. Holly argues that she’s the only one being blamed for Sophia taking her own life. Arianna admits that Amy hasn’t been happy with her either and she hasn’t been able to get the things she said to her out of her head. Arianna says she meant the mean things she said to Sophia but now she feels guilty. Holly responds that she doesn’t feel guilty for meaning any of it.

Liam tells Gabi that her offer sounds like blackmail. Gabi bets it’s more money than he’s ever seen in his life and says only an idiot would turn that down. Gabi tells Liam to think about what this could mean for him and how life changing it could be for he and his son. Gabi questions if he’ll seriously turn it down.

Holly tells Arianna that she hates what happened to Sophia and the pain her family is going through, but she doesn’t feel responsible and thinks it would be worse to pretend to feel guilty when she doesn’t. Arianna thinks it might be helpful to talk to someone to give her some perspective. Holly questions what she’s trying to say.

Amy asks Sarah if she believes that Sophia is still alive. Sarah clarifies that she meant Amy will see Sophia again in Heaven. Amy agrees that God would not punish Sophia for having mental health challenges. Amy complains that people like Holly have no excuse as she’s paraded through life hurting others and walking away unscathed while swearing she’s done no wrong. Sarah informs Amy that Holly is her niece and she loves her very much, insisting that she has a good heart. Sarah is sure that Holly deeply regrets whatever she’s done to hurt Sophia. Amy informs Sarah that she’s wrong about that as Holly has no regrets at all.

Belle tells Chad that Marlena didn’t get to see Lexie at the will reading since she left after receiving the chess set. Belle would love to know what Stefano’s intentions were with that, but she’s proud of Marlena’s resolve to not play his games. Chad hopes to keep his kids out of the whole DiMera orbit as much as possible and raise them as Hortons. Belle thinks that’s a wonderful decision. Chad admits he’s not really sure how well that’s working out for him.

Cat argues that if the hospital board forces him out, they’ll be in the same position they were before. EJ points out that this time, Xander doesn’t have the funds to put up a bid, so without him and Titan, there are no other buyers. Cat states that the board may not like some of his choices but there’s no way that they would choose closing the hospital over EJ retaining ownership. EJ says that’s his thoughts exactly. EJ understands there should be repercussions for his unauthorized experiments in his lab, but to want him gone altogether shows how short sighted they really are. EJ questions how they can’t see the drug he’s developing has potential to save hundreds of people. Cat then points out that it would be a gold mine and not just for the hospital.

Chad admits to Belle that there’s still tension between he, Jack, and Jennifer as he hasn’t been able to shake the resentment towards them since the custody suit and he’s pretty sure they feel the same way about him. Belle assures that Chad is a great father and that he’s done so much to keep Abigail’s memory alive, so she knows Jack and Jennifer are grateful for that. Chad then tells Belle that before he found out Lexie was in the pod, he thought it was Abigail that EJ was bringing back. Chad says as happy as he would’ve been, he was upset with EJ for keeping that from him but it wasn’t Abigail so he was upset for no reason. Belle says she sees why he felt that way and she wouldn’t put anything past EJ.

EJ tells Cat that it will definitely be a windfall for him when the drug gets clearance and hits the market. EJ adds that the hospital has no claim on it since the funding for it all came from his pocket. Cat mentions talking to Mark about getting FDA clearance. EJ reminds Cat that they agreed this wouldn’t be a work dinner, so he calls the waitress over to order dessert.

Sarah tells Amy that she doesn’t presume to know how she feels, but she has lost a child and in her grief, she also struggled with finding forgiveness. Amy admits she had no idea and she’s terribly sorry for her loss, but questions if she’s saying she should forgive Holly. Sarah responds that the person she struggled with forgiving the most was herself for things she could’ve done differently or better, but they both know it won’t take away the pain or the loss. Sarah knows Holly made some serious mistakes when it came to how she handled things with Sophia, but she hopes Amy’s faith guides her to extend the grace to Holly that God extends to them for their mistakes.

Arianna tells Holly that she’s just saying it might be helpful to get things off her chest. Holly argues that she doesn’t need to talk to anyone and that she’s fine. Arianna points out that Holly is hardly eating and just admitted she’s struggling with school, so she’s worried about her. Holly argues that she should be the one worried about Arianna because of Liam.

Gabi asks what is wrong with Liam and if he’s really that obsessed with Arianna that he would turn down the chance at a better life. Liam says it’s not just about Arianna as he really cares about her, but his parents are in Salem so he can’t just leave them behind. Gabi tells him to take them with him or they can come visit him. Gabi tells him to just take the money and leave town. Liam tells her that he can’t do it and reminds him that his plea deal says he has to stay in Salem for literacy tutoring and he’s already changed tutors once, so the district attorney won’t let him out of this deal. Liam informs her that his current tutor is Julie. Gabi says she’ll talk to Julie to see if he can leave town without jeopardizing his plea deal, but only if he agrees right now to leave town when she does. Gabi orders Liam to do whatever he wants with the money but he is not to contact Arianna ever again. Liam says if she can really do all that, then they have a deal.

Arianna tells Holly to get off her case about Liam. Holly questions being okay with her dating a criminal and compares it to Doug III. Arianna says Liam has nothing to do with Doug III and points out that she and Liam aren’t even dating yet. Holly thinks Gabi might have a point. Arianna argues that maybe Holly forgot what it’s like to have an overbearing parent around since her mother is thousands of miles away. Arianna then apologizes and admits she knows how much Holly misses her mother with all that is going on. Arianna is sorry for being hard on her and knows Holly is on her case about Liam because she cares about her. Arianna says she cares about her too and is always here for her, promising she’s never going anywhere.

Belle tells Chad that they spent a lot of this date talking about the past and suggests talking about the present. Belle asks if Chad has any exciting plans for the summer. Chad says they probably don’t need another family vacation but he thinks the kids are excited to spend more time with their friends, so he’s been trying to organize activities for them. Chad mentions Thomas doing little league but he doesn’t think it’s a good fit. Belle talks about John being a big Cubs fan and says that John’s smile always let her know everything would be okay as Chad touches her hand.

Cat tells EJ about picking Felicity up from school and how she was telling a classmate that she’s different but God made them all special. EJ comments that Felicity is special, just like Cat. Cat thanks him for saying that and asks if EJ speaks to his daughter Sydney often. EJ responds that he does and they are quite close. EJ praises Sydney’s qualities. Cat asks if she has any plans to come back to Salem. EJ responds that he’s sure she will come back to Salem very soon, once she finishes school. EJ admits if he had it his way, she never would’ve left.

Amy tells Sarah about looking through the gifts and cards, but points out that Holly is the one person who has yet to share a word. Sarah says she’s sorry but it’s possible Holly felt it wasn’t appropriate to come given how they left things. Amy agrees that it wouldn’t be since Holly obviously feels no remorse for how she treated Sophia and publicly denounced her, which to her is unforgivable. Amy knows it’s not her place to demand atonement, but declares she will not feel peace in her heart towards Holly until justice has been served.

EJ admits to Cat that it broke his heart when Sydney left Salem with her mother as his marriage to Sami was over. EJ says that still baffles him since he’s not quite sure what caused them to drift apart. EJ asks if Cat ever saw Sami come visit him in Italy. Cat says she doesn’t recall as the memories are hazy for her too. EJ says he was in a coma with no conscious memories, but his subconscious recalls Cat reading Wuthering Heights to him. Cat agrees that it’s strange. EJ states that maybe he can unlock some of those memories in his sessions with Marlena. EJ notes that Cat seems a little troubled by that. Cat responds that she’s thought about it and they say that the brain suppresses certain memories to protect itself from something painful. Cat asks if EJ is sure he wants to go down that road. EJ assures that regardless of what pain it may cause, he is determined to have questions answered. Cat thanks EJ for the dessert. EJ suggests they go for a walk in the park which she calls a good idea.

Belle tells Chad that she’s sorry as she didn’t mean to get emotional but it’s hard when her dad comes up in conversation. Chad says he completely understands. Chad suggests their third date could be going to a Cubs game in honor of John. Belle says she would love that. They then see EJ and Cat walk in to the town square together.

Holly tells Arianna about Tate teaching martial arts. Holly says she’s excited for him, but it feels like their lives are moving in different directions. Arianna assures that Tate loves her so she’s sure he’ll always go in the direction that keeps them together. Holly is glad they are friends again. Arianna says the world would have to work a lot harder as they survived Doug III and Sophia. Arianna declares they will be besties forever. After Holly exits the Pub, Gabi arrives and joins Arianna. Gabi informs Arianna that she got a call from Amy earlier that there will be a service for Sophia tomorrow afternoon. Gabi asks if Arianna would like to go with her. Gabi knows Ari has complicated feelings for Sophia, but says there’s a chance this could help her work through some of those feelings. Ari doesn’t know if she’s ready to handle all of that. Gabi assures that she understands and talks about when her sister died. Gabi encourages that her Grandmother told her to show up and always go to the funeral, so Arianna agrees to go as they hug.

Holly goes home to the Kiriakis Mansion where Sarah greets her. Holly tells her that she and Arianna were celebrating the end of their freshman year. Sarah is glad they are friends again. Sarah then informs Holly that she ran in to Amy at Sophia’s memorial and that the family are having a memorial service for Sophia tomorrow. Sarah thinks it might be a good idea for Holly to go. Holly isn’t sure since Amy hates her and wouldn’t want her there. Sarah disagrees and thinks it would help Amy to see that she cares about what happened to Sophia and that she’s focusing on the good times they shared. Holly agrees to think about it.

EJ greets Belle and Chad, commenting that they are picking up where they left off. EJ states that he and Cat are about to take a walk in the park and tells Chad and Belle to enjoy their evening as much as they have. Chad angrily finishes his glass of wine as they walk away

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Days Update Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Gabi runs in to Theo in the town square and asks about Lexie. Theo says she’s doing good and was craving chowder, so he’s picking her up some from the Pub for dinner. Gabi says she’s really happy for him and Abe, commenting that Abe must be thrilled. Theo confirms he’s barely left her side. Gabi can’t imagine what it must be like to wake up after almost 15 years. Theo doesn’t think any of them have really processed it yet.

Kayla checks on Lexie at the hospital and says her recovery has been a miracle. Lexie credits the excellent care. Kayla says she’s very proud of her staff. Lexie tells Kayla that she wants to hear everything that happened in her life while she was gone and asks about her family. Kayla informs Lexie that they were getting ready to head to China for Tripp’s wedding and explains that Tripp is Steve’s son with Ava, who was conceived while they thought Steve was dead but they are all okay now. Lexie can’t believe she missed the last 15 years as Theo is all grown up. Kayla asks if she’s had a chance to talk to Abe about what’s going on in his life now. Lexie says not really, but she’s done her own research about the woman he married and she has concerns about Paulina Price.

Abe goes to the DiMera Mansion and tells EJ that he has all kinds of things he wants to say to him, starting with “thank you” which surprises EJ.

Philip goes to the Brady Pub and sees Joy with Kelsey. Joy guesses Alex filled him in on the situation. Philip confirms that he did and that Kate told him that she moved in to her old room there. Philip adds that he was hoping to run in to her because Chloe texted him, asking him to check on her little sister and her niece.

Stephanie goes home and calls out to Alex but he’s not home. She then pulls her gun from her purse and puts it in a drawer. Alex then comes home behind her. Stephanie says she didn’t know he was going out. Alex informs her that he went to see Joy about the whole custody situation since he knows how eager they all are to get that resolved. Stephanie asks what they decided.

Theo and Gabi sit together in the town square. Gabi asks if he’s sure she’s not keeping him from anything. Theo assures that Kayla said Lexie’s tests could take a couple hours so as long as he’s back for dinner, he’s okay. Gabi asks if he is okay. Theo admits that as happy as he is to have his mom back, he’s still processing it and he’s worried about Abe. Theo says Abe is grateful for these miracles, but he has a lot of hard decisions to make.

EJ admits he’s surprised Abe left Lexie’s bedside. Abe says that Kayla took her for some tests, so he thought he’d take the opportunity come say his piece in person. Abe tells EJ that he knows him and that he has selfish motives for bringing Lexie back to them; money, power, and fame. Abe also knows that EJ loves his sister, so no matter what his motives may be, he is endlessly grateful to him for bringing his wife back.

Kayla questions Lexie using Theo’s phone to look up Paulina. Lexie reveals that she found an old Spectator article about Paulina using Abe to change zoning laws in an attempt to tear down the Horton Town Square. Kayla points out that Paulina stopped the project as soon as she found out how unpopular it was. Lexie argues that Paulina basically stole the mayorship from Abe and questions why Abe would marry her and if Paulina manipulated him in to it. Kayla insists that Paulina is not a bad person. Lexie remarks that she just does bad things, but then says she has no room to talk after all the pain she caused Abe and for Bo and Hope over Zach. Kayla calls that a long time ago but Lexie says it’s not for her. Lexie says maybe she’s just looking for reasons to hate the woman who married her husband.

Joy tells Philip that it’s nice of Chloe to be concerned about her but guesses her mom put her up to checking on her because she probably wants to know if she got a multi-million dollar child support agreement from Alex. Joy states that she came back so that Alex could be apart of Kelsey’s life. Philip then asks how Stephanie is taking all of this. Joy guesses that Philip really came to see her because he’s worried about Stephanie.

Alex tells Stephanie that he and Joy haven’t decided anything about the custody yet because he wouldn’t do that without her input. Stephanie didn’t think it was her place. Alex insists her opinion matters. Stephanie asks where they left things. Alex says they just decided to take it one step at a time. Stephanie asks what the first step is. Alex says it would be legally adding him to the birth certificate, officially changing Kelsey’s last name to Kiriakis. Alex adds that more importantly, they decided they need to make a plan to spend some real time with Kelsey to get to know her. Stephanie asks if he picked a day for this “play date”. Alex says it will unfortunately have to be when they get back from China. Stephanie then questions if he really wants to come to Tripp and Wendy’s wedding.

Philip tells Joy that Stephanie is a good friend of his and he cares about her, but he also cares about Alex and about Joy. Philip wishes he could offer her job back, but things are tight and they have a hiring freeze. Joy says she’s heard because she’s kept up to date on Alex and his family. Philip points out that it might affect the kind of child support that Alex can provide. Philip explains that they’ve all put most of their inheritance back in to Titan, so he guesses Alex and Stephanie are probably living off the profits from her book right now. Joy insists that she’s not after some big payout. Philip says he just wants her to be realistic about the situation. Joy then questions if he’s trying to get her to go back to New York.

Alex questions if Stephanie doesn’t want him at her brother’s wedding. Stephanie clarifies that she meant it might not be the best time for him to be leaving the country since he just found out he has a kid and still has to work through the details of custody and child support. Alex insists they will figure it out. Stephanie is sure they will but says this is a big trip and questions if he really wants to go all the way to South Asia and miss out on bonding time with his daughter.

Kayla tells Lexie that she can only imagine what it’s like to wake up and find out her husband has a whole new life. Lexie says for everyone else it’s been 15 years but for her, it was like she took a nap and woke up so she still feels in love with Abe like no time had passed. Kayla states that Abe mourned her for a very long time and it was Theo that got him through it. Kayla adds that Abe met Paulina and it was a very long time before he would let himself fall in love with her or even consider getting married. Lexie complains that it’s like a punch in the gut and questions hating a woman she’s never met. Lexie asks Kayla to tell her about Paulina and what Abe sees in her. Kayla responds that she is funny and smart, calling her a force of nature with a good heart. Lexie admits that Abe always had good taste in women, but he can’t have two wives. Lexie asks what Kayla thinks he’s going to do.

EJ tells Abe that it was Stefano’s fondest wish for Lexie to come back to him because he always blamed himself for her illness. Abe brings up that Theo doesn’t know about Stefano’s culpability in all of this and he wants to keep it that way. EJ is surprised and questions why Abe would protect Stefano when he hated him. Abe responds that he’s protecting Theo as he loved his Grandfather so much which EJ says was mutual. EJ adds that he did everything he could to keep Theo out of the DiMera CEO chair. Abe guesses that’s why EJ told him about Lexie since he knew if Theo thought there was a chance Lexie might come back, he wouldn’t want to disappoint her. EJ calls it a roll of the dice that worked. Abe thanks him for that too.

Gabi tells Theo that Abe loves Lexie and Paulina. Theo states that no matter what decision he makes, people are going to get hurt. Gabi says that includes him and asks if he quit DiMera because Lexie didn’t want him working there which Theo admits. Theo adds that it all worked out well because DiMera is in good hands with Johnny. Gabi remarks that Tony doesn’t think so and told her that he doesn’t want Johnny running DiMera. Theo questions if it’s about the lawsuit, arguing that they all know Kate set Johnny up. Gabi points out there’s no proof and that it’s not only the lawsuit as Tony doesn’t think Johnny’s heart is in it and sees him as an artist, not a business man. Theo says that Tony will just have to live with it because he’s not coming back. Gabi responds that Tony knows he’s not coming back and reveals that’s why he offered the job to her.

Philip tells Joy that he’s glad she’s back in Salem and that she told Alex the truth, he just wants her to understand the lay of the land. Joy repeats that she’s not here for the money and that they will be fine. Joy says all she is looking for is a little stability. Joy brings up last time she was in Salem, her mom wanted her to audition Body & Soul but then the show moved, so she gave Titan a shot. Philip says it makes sense why she moved to New York. Joy states that Alex and Stephanie were happy so she needed a fresh start, but no one was looking to hire a pregnant ex-actress. Philip asks if she misses acting which she admits she does, but says she’s moved on because now all she cares about and wants to do is be a good mother to Kelsey with or without Alex’s help.

Alex tells Stephanie that the timing isn’t great to leave town but he wants to go with her as she shouldn’t be alone at her brother’s wedding. Stephanie points out that she will have her parents and brothers so she won’t be alone. Stephanie adds that she wants her husband to be at the wedding with her, but she knows his mind is going to be elsewhere, so the sooner they get things figured out with Joy, the happier they will all be. Stephanie thinks that first meeting he has with Kelsey should just be him. Alex questions her not wanting to be there. Stephanie says that Kelsey is in a new place with new people and she’s been reading up on babies, noting that nothing could replace alone time with the parents at this age. Alex is surprised she’s been reading up on babies and acknowledges that she’s trying. Alex promises to do whatever he can to make this as easy as possible for her. Stephanie wants that for him too and says these are days he’ll never get back with his little girl. Alex agrees and tells her to facetime him from the ceremony and bring him home some cake. Alex adds that he will miss her like crazy. Stephanie assures she won’t be gone long and tells him to just cherish every moment with his daughter as he has a lot of time to make up for. Alex thanks her as they hug.

Theo can’t believe Tony offered Gabi the CEO chair as he thought it was all about keeping it in the family. Gabi responds that it is and now that she’s Stefan’s widow, not his ex, she’s technically family. Gabi adds that Tony said he likes her track record with Gabi Chic and he was impressed how she handled herself after he stabbed her in the back. Theo admits that Gabi is more than capable of handling the job, calling her fierce and ambitious but also kind which he calls the perfect combination for a CEO. Gabi thanks him for saying that. Theo asks if he’s told Johnny yet. Gabi responds that he doesn’t have to because she said no to the offer.

Kayla thinks that’s a conversation Lexie needs to have with Abe. Lexie complains that she’s tried but he doesn’t want to have it. Kayla suggests he doesn’t want to upset her while Lexie argues that Abe doesn’t want to deal with the truth. Kayla encourages giving him time. Lexie asks how much time and where she will even go if she’s discharged from the hospital.

Abe repeats to EJ that he’s grateful to him for bringing Lexie back to them, but he doesn’t trust him or his motives, so he’d like to ask EJ to stay away from Lexie and Theo because they have a lot to figure out. EJ guesses he means the fact that he has another wife. Abe knows EJ has a problem with Paulina and thinks that he’s enjoying the pain that Lexie’s return is causing her. EJ responds that Paulina tried to ruin his life, so he admits it will be satisfying to watch Abe kick her to the curb. Abe then questions who said he was doing that.

Philip tells Joy that it seems like she has clarity about what he wants and he’s impressed and jealous of that. Philip says if Titan gets back on it’s feet, there will be a job waiting on her if she wants it. Joy thanks him but says she’s not really thinking about work until she and Alex figure out the custody agreement. Philip wishes her luck and tells her to call if she needs anything. Joy jokes that he can tell her sister and her mom that she’s doing just fine. Philip welcomes Kelsey to the family and Joy back to Salem as he exits the Pub.

Alex tells Stephanie that since she will be leaving, they have to take advantage of every moment together and suggests starting with pizza and a movie.

Theo can’t believe Gabi turned down Tony’s offer to be CEO as he thought she always wanted it. Gabi says part of her always will but she learns her lessons after Tony offered her the job before. Gabi adds that she thought she could trust Tony but she was wrong, so she’s had her fill of DiMeras outside of Theo. Theo reminds her of the DiMera money. Gabi says Stefan wanted her to have what belonged to him. Theo says he’s not saying she doesn’t deserve it. Gabi doesn’t think his aunts and uncles would agree. Theo tells Gabi that he’s in her corner which Gabi says means a lot.

EJ questions if Abe is not going back to Lexie as he thought it was a foregone conclusion since she’s the love of his life and the mother of his son. Abe points out that Paulina is his wife. EJ says she is for now. Abe remarks that EJ can turn his back so easily on someone he loves but he doesn’t operate like that. EJ asks if Abe is denying that Lexie was his great love. Abe says of course not, but he and Paulina have built a life together and she healed him in so many ways. EJ apologizes for jumping to conclusions as he can see it’s a difficult decision for him, but questions how long he can kick it down the road since Paulina and Lexie are both hardly patient.

Kayla tells Lexie that she will tell Abe that she is strong enough for these conversations as he’s never been one to run from difficult decisions. Lexie thanks her and says that would help. Lexie tells Kayla that she is as prepared as she can be for Abe to tell her what she doesn’t want to hear. Lexie then tells Kayla that she needs one more thing and that’s to meet Paulina. Kayla leaves the room as Abe then arrives at the hospital and asks how Lexie’s tests went. Kayla says they are still waiting but she’s getting stronger every time she visits. Abe asks if he can go see her. Kayla says that would be a good idea as Lexie has questions that only Abe can answer. Kayla adds that she thinks Lexie is strong enough now to face them head on and so is he. Kayla tells Abe that she’s here for either of them as Abe heads to Lexie’s room. EJ then arrives at the hospital and greets Kayla.

Theo tells Gabi that he should get going since Lexie will be wondering where he is. Theo starts to tell Gabi if she ever wants to talk about DiMera but Philip arrives and interrupts them. Philip tells Theo that Gabi told him about Lexie and calls it amazing news, adding that he’s really happy for he and Abe. Philip asks how Lexie is doing. Theo says she’s good and getting better by the day. Theo tells Gabi they’ll talk soon and hurries off as Philip comments that he seemed to make Theo uncomfortable which Gabi says that he definitely did.

Abe sits with Lexie and asks how she’s doing. Lexie responds that she’s been poked and prodded but she feels good. Abe says she’s looking well and offers to take her out for some fresh air but Lexie says they need to talk and she’d rather do it in private. Abe admits he’s been hesitant. Lexie then says she wants to meet Paulina as he can’t keep them apart forever. Lexie understands how difficult this is for him but argues that they can’t just pretend everything is normal. Lexie declares she’s ready to deal with the reality of their situation and hopes he is too.

Theo goes to the Brady Pub and meets Joy, who he recognizes from Body and Soul. He introduces himself as Abe’s son and notes that he didn’t know she still lived in Salem. Joy responds that they just came back to town and introduces him to her daughter, Kelsey. Kelsey then starts crying.

Alex and Stephanie finish watching a movie. Alex talks about being sad to miss Tripp’s wedding as he always loves a party. Stephanie tells him that she’ll save him a dance, so Alex then uses his phone to turn on some music so they can dance together.

Theo finds Kelsey’s stuffed elephant that Alex got for her on the floor at the Pub and returns it to her which stops Kelsey’s crying. Joy thanks him and says she didn’t even notice it. Theo comments that they all need help sometimes and understands that losing things can be frustrating.

Philip asks why Gabi thinks he made Theo uncomfortable. Gabi clarifies that she didn’t mean him personally and that Theo was just opening up about everything going on in his life. Philip realizes he stepped right in to a private conversation. Gabi assures that she’s happy he’s here. Philip asks if they also talked about her DiMera inheritance. Gabi says they did a little and that Theo said he would support in receiving Stefan’s shares. Philip hopes they get good news on that front soon and that Gabi can use that money to live her best life and leave DiMera behind for good as they kiss.

EJ tells Kayla that he got her message and asks if it’s about Lexie. Kayla reveals that the hospital board called an emergency meeting to discuss EJ’s highly questionable practices. EJ points out that took place in his private lab. Kayla points out it was in the hospital which EJ notes he owns. Kayla states that he does for the moment. EJ argues that they both know the board has no teeth and he just keeps them on for PR purposes. EJ warns that he could disband the board today if he wanted to. Kayla says in the meantime, they have decided to file a complaint with the state medical regulatory licensing committee about his activities.

Lexie calls Abe a man who carefully considers every possibility before making a decision and she’s always loved that about him, but the time for careful consideration is over. Abe responds that he could never say no to her, so he will bring Paulina to see her as soon as he can.

Alex and Stephanie dance together and end up kissing onto the couch.

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Days Short Recap Friday, June 5, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Cat told Rafe that she was about to play EJ. She told him that she was going to use her mother as bait for the wonder drug. Rafe ripped into her and reminded her that she wasn’t a trained agent. He said she was there to get information, not set up schemes. Rafe warned her that they were done if she went rogue one more time. Cat said it wouldn’t happen again. They talked about stopping the drug from hitting the black market. Rafe said they needed to get a sample. They couldn’t let it get in the wrong hands. Before Cat left, Rafe told her to keep things professional with EJ. When Cat told Rafe that EJ wanted her to get hypnotized, Rafe was okay with it. He said they had to let Marlena know what she told EJ. EJ asked Theo about Lexie and how she was doing. Theo said Lexie was proud of him for being CEO of DiMera. EJ told Theo that Johnny had to step down because of Chanel. While he was talking, he told Theo that Chanel had cancer. He said he thought Theo knew. Before Theo was about to leave, EJ asked Theo to be his second-in-command while Johnny takes a leave. Theo agreed to let him do it. Marlena, Abe, and Lexie met for breakfast. When John came up, Lexie asked i her treatment could work on John. Marlena said it wouldn’t work. Changing the subject, Marlena asked how Chanel was doing with the pregnancy. Abe said he hadn’t spoken to Chanel or Paulina. Lexie said she told Abe to cut off contact with Paulina and Chanel. When Lexie left, Marlena told Abe that she was there for him. Abe said Paulina could use a friend.

Johnny walked in while Chanel was canceling her chemo appointment. Chanel said she wasn’t changing her mind about the chemo. She said no one talked about her the chemo or her baby. They ended up arguing over it. Johnny asked her what would be worse than the baby growing up without a mother. Chanel said she didn’t plan on dying or never doing chemo. She said she couldn’t live with herself if she hurt the baby. Johnny said the doctor was unprofessional, but he wasn’t the normal doctor. He said he had great doctors when he had cancer. Chanel said his experience was different from a black woman’s. She left to check on Trey. Paulina showed up. Johnny told her about the oncologist. He asked her for help. Chanel came back and heard Johnny talking to Paulina. She yelled at him for asking Paulina for help. Paulina wanted them to use another doctor who would take care of her. EJ asked Marlena if she had any techniques to help Cat get her memory back. Marlena said she couldn’t talk about another patient’s treatment. Later on when Cat showed up, Marlena asked her why she lied about having an appointment with her. Theo told Abe that Chanel had cancer. Abe went to see Chanel. He saw Paulina and apologized for not being there for her. After Abe and Paulina left, Chanel agreed to get the second opinion if the doctor answered her questions.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, June 4, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Sarah had a dream about being in bed with Xander. In the dream, Brady showed up. Xander and Brady got into a fight over Sarah. Gabi met up with Xander in the town square. He asked her about the inheritance offer. She said Philip turned her down so it wasn’t going to happen. Xander said he would accept the offer. Gabi refused to give him the money. After she turned him down, Xander blackmailed her. He told her to give him the money or she would go to prison for corporate espionage. Marlena ran into Kate at the pub and argued with her. Kate apologized for the fact that the lawsuit caused problems between them. She told Marlena that John would want them to work together running Basic Black. Brady and Belle saw Marlena at the pub but didn’t know whether or not they should tell Marlena about the missing pawn. They decided to go in the pub and told Kate to leave. After Kate left, they celebrated John’s life.

Marlena showed Brady and Belle the coin she found at John’s grave. She said she gave him the coin at the hospital but it disappeared. Marlena thought it meant John would always be there for them. Belle mentioned the mysterious lilacs that were at the funeral. Marlena thanked Roman for everything he did for her. Kate was upset about it while watching them. She was upset when she checked her messages and got a message from Xander telling her they had to drop the lawsuit. Belle wondered if the coin meant John was still out there. Brady said Shane did a DNA test on John’s ashes. Belle said it didn’t work that way. Brady said it did for the ISA.

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Days Update Monday, May 18, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Chanel finishes a call with Johnny at home, promising him that she will get some rest. After she hangs up, she feels a pain as Paulina comes in and asks what’s wrong.

Stephanie goes home to Alex and tells him things went well with her new client. She then sees a stuffed animal that Alex got for Kelsey. Stephanie says they’ve been tip-toeing around the issue of the baby for awhile now, so she thinks it’s time to address the elephant in the room.

Lani finds Joy in the park with Kelsey. Lani recognizes her from Body and Soul while Joy recognizes her as Abe’s daughter, so they introduce themselves. Lani points out her twins playing in the park and then meets Joy’s daughter, Kelsey Kiriakis.

Brady goes to see Sarah at the hospital and invites her to lunch before he has to go to the gun range. Sarah says she’d love to but she’s stuck working a double shift. Brady says at least they got some time to spend together when Xander had Victoria. Sarah laments that now she doesn’t get to see Victoria for another night.

Gwen and Leo sit together in the town square with coffee. Gwen thanks Leo for the distraction. Gwen then starts to cry, so Leo asks what’s wrong.

Kristen tells Xander that the only way to punish EJ for everything he’s done is to eliminate him completely and wipe him off the face of the Earth. Xander argues that she tried to take out EJ in the past and it blew up in her face. Kristen declares that what she wants now is for Xander to kill him. Xander asks if this is a setup to get Titan to drop their lawsuit against DiMera. Kristen says that would be business while this is personal. Xander realizes Kristen is serious about this.

Sarah apologizes to Brady for going on about missing her daughter for one night. Brady says Rachel might not be under his roof right now but tells Sarah that she’s allowed to miss her daughter and he wants her to open up to him about everything. Sarah tells Brady that she will miss him tonight. Brady says they will have dinner this weekend to make up for it. Brady tells Sarah to go save lives as they kiss.

Chanel tells Paulina that she’s fine and claims she just hit her funny bone on her computer. Paulina suggests Chanel get some rest since Trey is taking a nap. Paulina calls it a blessing having all her family under one roof. Chanel says they appreciate her letting them stay, but she’s beginning to think they may just be another burden for Paulina, Theo, and Abe. Paulina insists that she could never be a burden as her, Lani, and her grandkids are what’s keeping her sane right now. Paulina asks Chanel not to go anywhere.

Alex tells Stephanie that it does feel they’ve been dancing around the subject of his daughter but he just wanted her to have time to process everything. Stephanie says if she’s being honest, the only thing she’s been able to process is something she already knew. Stephanie declares that she’s sorry but she’s not ready to be a stepmother.

Joy tells Lani that after a lot of soul searching, she realized that Alex deserves to know his daughter. Lani jokes that it sounds like a story straight out of Body and Soul. Joy states that being a mom has taught her a lot of things. Joy declares nothing is more important to her than her little girl and she will do anything to give her a good life. Lani responds that she knows exactly how she feels.

Leo asks Gwen to tell him what’s going on and says he knows they’ve had their ups and downs, but he cares about her and hates seeing her this upset. Gwen then tells him that it’s about Xander.

Xander asks what makes Kristen think he would entertain such a dark request. Kristen points out that he was Victor’s thug. Xander says he’s well aware of his past but he’s more interested in his future. Xander questions what Kristen can offer him to entice him to murder her brother for her. Kristen says she can offer lots of money as she just inherited millions from her father. Kristen points out that Titan is in a world of trouble, so Xander doing this job would solve both their problems. Xander responds by telling Kristen to go to Hell.

Alex questions what Stephanie means. Stephanie responds that she’s not prepared to take on the stepmother role. Alex knows this situation is far from ideal, but she is Kelsey’s stepmom whether or not they were ready for it. Alex then questions if she wants him to choose between their marriage and his daughter.

Lani and Joy talk about taking care of their kids. Lani says she gets a taste of single parenting when Eli is away and it’s not easy. Joy thanks Lani for being kind to her as she’s sure she has heard unflattering things about her from Chanel. Lani gets why Chanel feels a certain way but she didn’t know Johnny was married. Joy acknowledges that they climbed in bed together the first night she was in Salem. Joy admits nothing happened but she let Chanel believe she was her friend while keeping that secret from her and that wasn’t cool at all. Lani gets that she was protecting Johnny. Lani adds that Chanel has a lot on her plate right now, so she suggests Joy give her space which Joy assures she will do.

Chanel assures Paulina that they are not going anywhere if it’s more comforting for her to have them stay and they will stay as long as she needs them to. Chanel asks where Lexie is going to go when she is discharged and if she and Abe have discussed this. Paulina admits they have not discussed anything as Abe and Theo have been at Lexie’s bedside 24/7 so she didn’t want to intrude. Chanel argues that she wouldn’t be intruding since she is Abe’s wife. Paulina argues that now that Lexie is alive, she’s not sure if she is Abe’s wife.

Gwen tells Leo that she told herself she was fine with something casual with no strings, but she should’ve known that her heart would get in the way. Leo knows that underneath she’s a sensitive soul with a good heart. Leo guesses this isn’t just about Xander. Gwen admits there’s also EJ, so Leo asks what about EJ. Gwen thinks back to EJ reminding her that no one knows of her involvement in his project and then saying he should take more of the reward since he took the greater risk. Gwen then tells Leo that EJ double crossed her.

Kristen asks if Xander has gone soft on the straight and narrow now. Xander informs her that he’s been in therapy, trying to turn down his murderous impulses and get to the root cause of his anger, so he’s not going to get rid of all the work he’s done by taking out EJ DiMera. Kristen says she’s not suggesting he take out EJ by himself since he has his own personal goon squad. Xander argues that she does too. Kristen says the sirens would come blaring for her right away while Xander is one of EJ’s many business rivals. Xander points out that aside from the name, EJ has nothing to do with DiMera Enterprises. Kristen argues thatthey both know EJ is always involved with DiMera and warns that it’s only a matter of time before EJ does something to burn him. Kristen encourages Xander to think of all the people he will be helping and remarks that the world would be a much better place without EJ DiMera in it. Kristen adds that she’s sure Marlena would agree.

Brady surprises Sarah with Victoria at the hospital, explaining that he knew she wasn’t able to see her so he met with her nanny to surprise her. Sarah tells him how happy he’s made her. They send Victoria back with the nanny while Brady tells Sarah that he has to get to the shooting range for more private investigator lessons. Sarah worries about his well being since it’s a dangerous job. Brady assures that he’ll be fine. Sarah says he better be because she needs him to be as they hug.

Kristen asks what Xander says to her pitch. Xander says he’s sorry but the answer is still no. Kristen decides if he doesn’t want to play ball, then she gives up and she’s sorry for wasting their time. Xander says it doesn’t have to be a waste of their time, reminding her that he initially thought she asked him over for a little afternoon delight. Kristen asks if Xander is saying he’s interested in her. Xander points out that he’s still there, so Kristen then kisses him.

Leo questions how EJ double crossed Gwen. Gwen complains that Leo is just being a reporter after his next scoop instead of being a friend. Leo admits she’s partly right because he is extremely curious but he’s also worried about her. Leo promises he’s being sincere in that he misses his friend. Gwen decides she believes him and asks if there’s any friend he liked more than her. Leo starts talking about his best friend in 8th grade which makes Gwen cry again. Gwen declares that she’s so tired of not coming first for anyone.

Stephanie tells Alex that she would never ask him to choose between her and his daughter, but this is not what she signed on for. Stephanie adds that it’s making her feel like she can’t trust him because Joy told her that he said he wanted her to stay in Salem while he told her that it was Joy’s decision that she made. Alex apologizes and figured that she understood how truly complicated this is for him. Stephanie guesses what she’s feeling is not that important. Stephanie then gets an alert on her phone and says she has to get to the gun range. Alex guesses they’ll pick this up when she gets back. Stephanie remarks that she’s sure his daughter will love the stuffed animal as she exits.

Chanel insists that Paulina is still Abe’s wife. Paulina argues not in the eyes of the law and maybe not in God’s eyes. Paulina complains that she doesn’t have the will or energy to square up against fate or the love of Abe’s life, so she feels the only thing to do is bow out because she prefers that over sitting around waiting for the inevitable.

Xander and Kristen continue kissing. Xander talks about all the looks she’s been giving him. Kristen says she’s done looking and wants to touch as she removes his shirt and they continue kissing. Kristen removes Xander’s belt and says she’s in charge as they kiss. Kristen then uses Xander’s belt to tie his hands together on her bed as they kiss further and end up having sex. As Kristen falls asleep afterwards, Xander ends up hurting his elbow when he frees himself from being tied up by his belt.

Chanel tells Paulina that she knows the Lexie situation is complicated and that she’s just trying to protect her heart, but advises her not to make any decisions until talking to Abe first. Lani comes in and tells them that the twins had so much fun at the park and now they are the book store with Julie. Paulina heads to the kitchen to make them tea. Lani asks Chanel how Paulina is doing. Chanel says she’s trying to be strong but she knows she’s pushing it all down which is so not like her. Lani responds that she’s not the only one.

Sarah goes in to see a patient at the hospital which turns out to be Xander.

Stephanie joins Brady at the gun range. Brady notes that she’s upset and asks if she wants to talk about it.

Alex gets a text from Joy, asking when they can get together to talk about legal stuff. Alex responds that he can meet now, so Joy tells him that she’s at the park with Kelsey and Alex exits.

Sarah remarks that today is full of surprises. Xander thought she’d be off by now. Sarah explains that a colleague came down with the stomach flu so she’s here, unless he wants a different doctor. Xander says she’ll do just fine. Sarah takes a look at his elbow injury and thinks it’s dislocated. Sarah then asks how he did this and what happened to his wrist.

Leo and Gwen go back to the Salem Inn where they run in to Kristen. Gwen asks what she’s doing at the Salem Inn. Leo guesses it’s none of their business but questions the way she’s looking while leaving a hotel room.

Lani says that Chanel is pretending everything is fine when she has so much going on. Chanel admits it’s tough waiting for her biopsy results and says she hasn’t told Paulina because she can’t lay another thing on her. Lani encourages that Paulina would want to know and be there for her, just like she does as they hug.

Alex meets Joy in the town square and brings the stuffed elephant he got for Kelsey. Alex explains that he loved Horton Hears a Who when he was a kid, so he brought it for her. Alex acknowledges that Kelsey definitely has Joy’s eyes. Alex mentions talking to his dad about the legalities of the situation and he advised them to take baby steps until the whole joint custody is figured out. Joy agrees that makes sense. Alex thinks a good first step would be for Stephanie to meet the baby. Joy then reveals she already has and questions her not telling him. Joy says it was at the Pub and wasn’t exactly a warm moment. Alex says that Stephanie is still getting used to the idea of him having a kid, but insists that in time she will come around. Joy says if he says so.

Stephanie talks to Brady about not being sure she wanted children and now this baby has been thrust in her life and questions how she’s supposed to warm up to her when all she sees is a reminder that Alex slept with someone else. Stephanie worries about sounding like a heartless bitch while Brady understands it’s a lot for anyone to deal with. Stephanie says she was still trying to figure out how to take care of herself and now questions how she’s supposed to take care of an infant.

Leo asks if he’s right about Kristen’s hair being messed up. Kristen tells him that he has no idea what he’s talking about and claims she was just in a business meeting. Kristen warns Leo not to push her buttons. Leo remarks that he’s guessing whoever she was meeting did more than just push her buttons.

Xander claims to Sarah that he took his lunch break at the gym and was doing pullups when he lost his grip. Sarah says she’ll want an x-ray to make sure it’s not fractured and then she’ll pop it back in to place. Xander questions that requiring a lot of strength while Sarah says it’s mainly leverage and that she’s done it before many times. Xander says okay if she thinks she can do it. Sarah assures that she can and she’s looking forward to it.

Chanel tells Lani that she knows she’s there for her and so is Johnny which is enough for her, so she doesn’t want to burden Paulina with this right now. Chanel adds that maybe she doesn’t have cancer and is due for another miracle. Lani agrees as Paulina comes back and asks about miracles. Lani tells Paulina that Chanel was just saying maybe the Lexie situation could be resolved without anyone getting hurt which Paulina remarks would take a miracle.

Sarah informs Xander that the x-ray showed his elbow is not fractured, so she’s just going to manipulate it back in to alignment and then he’ll have to wear a sling for a week or two while it heals. Sarah then pops Xander’s elbow back in to place which Xander guesses she enjoyed.

Leo tells Kristen that he’s not judging and brings up all the times he’s walked out of a hotel room in the middle of the afternoon. Gwen says if Kristen was with someone, good for her. Kristen thanks her. Gwen then adds that if her being with Xander served as inspiration, she takes it as a badge of honor.

Brady tells Stephanie that he gets her frustration but babies tend to work their way into their hearts. Brady points out that Kelsey is Joy’s daughter but also Alex’s. Stephanie admits she needs to remember that because she loves Alex and she hopes someday, she can find a way to love his daughter too.

Alex doesn’t think running in to Stephanie at the Pub counts as meeting Kelsey. Alex suggests setting up a time to bring Kelsey by their apartment and hopefully by then, Justin will have drawn up the paper work to amend the birth certificate and she will officially be Kelsey Kiriakis. Alex asks about a middle name. Joy admits she hasn’t given her one yet, but she thought Adrienne might be nice. Alex picks Kelsey up and calls her Kelsey Adrienne Kiriakis.

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Days Update Friday, May 15, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Rafe and Javi playfully argue over the best type of pizza crust at home. Rafe says he’s just glad Javi is up and running and back where he belongs, admitting the place was too quiet without him. Javi asks about Arianna. Rafe says she’s there for the summer in theory and then asks if Javi is okay since inhaling gas is no joke, telling him not to downplay that he saved Johnny’s life. Rafe says Johnny is like a son to him so he’ll never forget it. Javi says they got lucky with the neighbor and sometimes he thinks what if they haven’t or if Trey was in there. Rafe encourages that Javi did good while Javi says he just did his job and hopes his Captain thinks the same.

EJ talks to Cat in his office about the cutting edge science of bringing Lexie back and how that was Stefano’s last wish. Cat understands why he couldn’t tell her and that it had to be top secret. Cat can’t help but wonder what it was like for EJ having to go through it all by himself. EJ responds that it was worth it in the end. Cat asks what happens now that the world knows about EJ DiMera’s life restoring drug and how he proceeds from here. EJ responds that he will proceed very carefully.

Chad and Kristen go to the DiMera Mansion. Kristen wishes they could’ve woken Lexie up while Chad talks about seeing her breathing again after thinking they lost her all those years ago. Kristen says they both know that the DiMeras played chess with death in the past. Kristen questions death not being permanent and what that says about life. Kristen remarks that Stefano always played God and it should’ve ended with him a long time ago. Chad says maybe not.

Xander goes to see Gwen in her room at the Salem Inn where they start kissing.

Javi tells Rafe that he should’ve known better than to run in to a gas emergency without his gear, but he thought Trey was in there so he panicked and messed up. Rafe argues that he saved Johnny’s life and prevented an explosion that could’ve taken out an entire building. Rafe calls Javi a hero while Javi feels he broke the rules, so the Captain is right to suspend him without pay. Javi worries about getting his first write up since his record is spotless. Rafe hopes it won’t come to that. Javi jokes about Rafe putting in a good word for him. Rafe says he does know someone who could help, who has a lot of say and whose son didn’t die because of him.

EJ tells Cat there are two choices; abandon the project entirely or move it forward through the proper channels. Cat imagines he will be choosing to move forward because he has other patients or test subjects on ice. EJ confirms there are more opportunities ahead and he won’t apologize for the shortcuts he took because the value trumped the importance of doing it by the book. Cat hopes it doesn’t fall in to the wrong hands. EJ knows it’s personal for her. Cat says that her brother Mark is already on parole. EJ responds that Mark’s work has been strictly limited to animal testing, mostly on rats, so he hasn’t broken any laws. EJ admits they may have pushed boundaries, there has been no criminal conduct since they can’t break laws that don’t exist. EJ assures Cat that there is no need to worry and asks if she trusts him. Cat confirms that she does, but warns him not to make her regret it.

Kristen questions Chad having proof of what EJ is doing. Chad says he’s not saying that, but the idea that someone they lost forever could just come back is pretty powerful. Kristen guesses Chad was hoping he would bring Abigail back. Chad admits he’d do anything to bring Abigail back but EJ said it wasn’t possible. Kristen asks if he said why. Chad says apparently the process has to be initiated shortly after death and Stefano had Lexie preserved until the technology and drugs existed to bring her back, but that doesn’t offer hope to everyone. Kristen says she’s sorry to hear that about Abigail. Kristen admits she was tempted to play God in the past but she learned it was a huge mistake, unlike EJ. Kristen calls EJ arrogant, ignorant, and think he’s untouchable. Chad remarks that EJ has cheated death just as much as Stefano did. Kristen argues that EJ is not only mortal, but highly fallible and cruel. Kristen talks about seeing your child traumatized to being driven to pick up a gun. Kristen declares that Rachel shot EJ because of what he did to Kristen’s mother and she knew EJ made her disappear. Kristen states that EJ followed Stefano’s blueprint of playing God and didn’t even realize the kind of pain he was putting on people. Kristen declares that it has to stop right now. Chad questions what she means and how.

Javi tells Rafe there is no way that he’s asking EJ DiMera to speak to his boss on his behalf as he wants nothing to do with him. Rafe says he’s just pointing out that Javi saved EJ’s son’s life so he owes him. Javi declares he will never ask EJ for a damn thing. Javi adds that if the Captain comes down on him then maybe it’s a sign he needs to head back to Texas. Rafe questions him talking about leaving again. Javi says he loves Salem and being there with Rafe and Gabi, but admits leaving has crossed his mind a couple of times. Rafe guesses they aren’t talking about work problems anymore. Javi says he should get going and thanks Rafe for the pizza, so he exits.

EJ assures that he would not cause Cat regret, but he does regret losing the memory of their time together in Italy in the hospital, so he wants to do something about that. Cat doesn’t know if there’s anything he can do. EJ informs her that he’s scheduled an appointment with Marlena to hypnotize him as he thinks she could help him and he’s tired of the missing pieces. EJ wants to know what really happened and why they are connected, if it’s coincidence or orchestrated by someone. Cat tells him to let her know what comes up. EJ promises he will. Cat decides she will take her lunch break and see him later as she exits.

Kristen tells Chad that she doesn’t know how she would stop EJ as it’s above her pay grade. Chad didn’t realize she thought anything was above her pay grade. Kristen remarks that she wouldn’t cry if EJ vanished off the earth tomorrow. Kristen adds that she’s not interested in deciding who deserves to live or die which Chad says he’s glad to hear. Kristen says she would never want to go back to prison and be separated from Rachel as that almost destroyed her. Kristen adds that what really scares her is what the future holds for their family and children if EJ continues to play king. Chad asks who if not EJ. Kristen argues that anyone would be better than him. Chad asks if she wants to play the role. Kristen warns that he’s sounding like Peter and he knows what happened to him. Chad says he has to get to a meeting so he exits.

Xander and Gwen lay in bed after having sex. Gwen calls it quick while Xander says it was satisfying. Gwen hoped for an encore but Xander says he has to get back to the office. Gwen argues that he’s the boss so he can come and go as he pleases. Xander says there are endless things to be done that only he can do. Gwen asks if she’s just a chore on his to do list. Xander reminds her that they agreed to just have fun with no strings. Gwen asks what if she doesn’t like their agreement and wants a new one. Xander says she seemed to like it fine until right now. Gwen argues that they had not spoken since EJ made her move out of the house, but jokes that it makes it convenient for him not to have to go to the DiMera Mansion. Xander jokes that he was getting used to it and liked pissing off EJ. Gwen asks if he just wanted to use her to torture his enemy. Xander says if she’s looking for feelings, he can’t give her that as he was very clear from the start. Gwen guesses that’s because he’s still in love with Sarah and remarks that his silence speaks volumes. Xander decides to take a quick shower before going back to work.

Cat goes to see Rafe and tells him that things have gotten infinitely more complicated since yesterday as they have major problems. Cat informs Rafe that Leo asked if she is ISA because of Dimitri. Cat explains that she ran in to them at the hospital and Dimitri recognized her voice from years ago. Rafe worries that her cover is blown. Cat thinks she was able to convince Leo that Dimitri was wrong. Rafe says he knows Leo better than she does and knows that once Leo gets an idea in his brain, he doesn’t let it go. Cat asks what to do now.

Leo and Chad eat together at the Brady Pub. Leo asks about Lexie. Chad says she was sleeping earlier but so far, so good. Leo says that’s good because they need to run this story. Leo knows she’s family and it’s personal, but they will look clueless if they don’t run it. Chad agrees that they need to run the story, but says they will not sensationalize what happened. Chad understands how hard Lexie’s return to life must be for Leo. Leo complains about not getting to break the story and tells Chad that he almost ran in to Lexie down in the tunnels. Leo then lets it slip that he and Cat heard footsteps, so Chad questions Cat being down there with him.

Xander asks Gwen why they would ruin their agreement by turning it in to something it isn’t. Gwen doesn’t think it’s ruining it by adding some value to it. Xander question what value. Gwen guesses he’ll just have to find out next time. Xander then gets a text from Kristen, asking to meet ASAP. Xander tells Gwen that is work and they’ll talk soon as he exits, leaving Gwen annoyed.

Rafe tells Cat that the ISA covered her tracks well, so they hope Leo will be convinced and move on. Rafe asks what the other problem is. Cat informs him that EJ just told her that he’s going to start digging in to their time at the hospital in Italy because he wants to better understand it, so he’s booked an appointment with Marlena. Rafe states that they need to stop this fast and declares a lot more worried about EJ than Leo.

Chad questions Leo as to why Cat was in the tunnels and what she was doing down there. Leo thinks back to guessing that Cat was ISA, but then tells Chad that she was just getting wine. Chad questions why he lied for her at the hospital then and didn’t tell EJ she was down there. Leo responds that Cat was covering for him because he begged her not to tell EJ that he was in the tunnels and she didn’t, but then he saw EJ laying into her so he fessed up. Leo says EJ hates him anyway so it was nothing. Leo thanks Chad and rushes off to get dessert as EJ arrives. EJ hopes Roman gets rid of Leo. Chad calls Leo a good guy, just persistent. EJ remarks that he’s persistent in trying to ruin his life, like certain other people in town.

Xander meets Kristen at the Salem Inn. Kristen tells him that they have to have a private discussion, urgently.

Cat asks Rafe how they can stop EJ from working with Marlena on hypnosis. Cat questions how it will work since EJ was unconscious most of his time in Italy. Rafe insists you never know what the mind can retain. Rafe adds that if Marlena doesn’t want to work with EJ, he will find someone who will. Rafe warns that EJ is ten times more dangerous than Leo. Cat assures that she can handle him. Rafe asks what if EJ finds out that Cat was ISA and that she’s been lying to him and playing him. Rafe doesn’t even want to think about what EJ would do. Rafe worries that if EJ finds out, they could lose an incredible agent and put Cat and her family’s lives at risk. Cat doesn’t think there’s anything for EJ to find and says they have more urgent problems right now. Rafe questions what is more urgent than putting her life at risk. Cat says the lives of people like Lexie and EJ’s drug. Cat tells Rafe that EJ felt he had two options to abandon the project or to move forward through the proper channels. Rafe calls in convenient that EJ would leave out the third option of the black market. Cat says she’s heard they know the drug exists. Rafe repeats that they need to stop EJ fast before this gets out of their control.

Chad tells EJ that he wanted to talk to him about something that happened yesterday with he and Cat.

Cat hides in the other room as Leo shows up at Rafe’s door. Leo asks if he’s alone as he thought he heard voices. Rafe claims he was on the phone. Leo explains that the Pub had a special on Javi’s favorite so he brought it over. Rafe thought they agreed to make a clean break. Leo says they did but he just wanted to make a kind gesture. Rafe tells Leo that he missed Javi as he went to pick up his boyfriend at the airport. Leo guesses he should go then. Rafe tells Leo that for what it’s worth, he’s sorry it worked out this way. Leo thanks him and exits. Cat then comes back in and says that was close.

Xander asks why Kristen is so desperate to get him all alone in their hotel room. Kristen repeats that they need to talk and she doesn’t want anyone lurking in the DiMera Mansion to overhear. Xander says that he thought she wanted him there for something different and that he’s seen her checking him out. Kristen mocks his giant ego. Xander asks what she wants from him then. Kristen repeats that they need to talk about their alliance against EJ and asks if he’s ready to step up his game.

Gwen runs in to Leo in the hallway of the Salem Inn. Gwen asks why he’s so glum. Leo doesn’t want to talk about it. Gwen guesses it’s about Javi. Leo says that’s part of it, but also about the EJ expose’ being dead in the water. Gwen says that’s too bad. Gwen mentions binging on room service so she was going to go for a walk and grab some caffeine if he’d like to join her. Leo decides that beats brooding alone so they walk out together.

EJ asks what Chad is talking about. Chad says at the will reading, he heard EJ and Cat discussing dinner plans, dessert, and next time. EJ responds that his employee and him were making polite conversation. Chad argues that EJ has been circling Cat ever since he bid on her at the date auction. EJ brings up how he stepped aside, so Cat could go skydiving with Chad and he left them alone until Chad completely bailed. Chad argues that he didn’t bail. EJ says that all that matters is that Cat is off limits to Chad and asks if that means she’s off limits to everyone. Chad says it’s just him and that he’s the last person she needs. Chad then tells EJ to stay the hell away from her. EJ responds that would be rather impossible since he’s her employer and he’s not the one who is legally required to keep his distance from her, so that won’t work either. EJ tells Chad to take care as he then exits the Pub.

Cat is relieved that Leo didn’t follow her and was just dropping something off for Javi. Cat says she should get going before someone else shows up at his door. Rafe says he should get back to work and see if he can get a hold of Kristen to find out if she knows how to summon Dr. Rolf. Rafe warns Cat no more close calls and to watch her back as she then exits. Rafe then pulls out his phone and calls Kristen.

Kristen ignores Rafe’s call and asks if Xander is going to answer her question. Xander says he’s no fan of EJ, so he asks what she has in mind. Kristen hoped they could capitalize on whatever he was so desperate to keep secret, but that turned out to be Lexie. Kristen says it’s on to plan B and the only way to punish EJ for everything he’s done is to eliminate him completely and wipe him off the face of the Earth. Xander argues that she tried to take out EJ in the past and it blew up in her face. Kristen declares that what she wants now is for Xander to kill him.

 

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Days Update Thursday, May 14, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Sarah checks on Shawn in his hospital room. Shawn tells her where his pain levels are at as Sarah advises him not to overdo the exercise when he gets out. Sarah then announces he’s being discharged this morning which Shawn calls great news. Shawn says he’ll just have to call Jada, but Sarah reveals she already did.

Chanel joins Johnny in his hospital room as he’s getting dressed and asks if he’s ready to get out of here. Johnny responds that he’s actually not going anywhere.

Tate and Holly sit together at the Kiriakis Mansion. Tate is reading a quiz in his exercise science while Holly complains about him reading out loud while she’s waiting for her exam grade to be posted. Tate encourages her to forget about everything else as he kisses her.

Gabi goes to the Hernandez home where Arianna is annoyed, looking at her phone. Gabi excitedly talks about bringing soup she made for Javi. Arianna tells her that Javi is sleeping, so she’ll put it away for later and tells Gabi she can go.

Jada brings Sophia’s parents to the interrogation room at the police station. Amy mentions Mr. Choi rushing home from a business trip once he heard of Sophia’s disappearance and asks if there’s been any update. Jada informs them that Sophia’s body has not been found which Mr. Choi points out could be a good thing and mean she’s not in the river. Jada reveals that the time window has expired for the case to be a search and rescue, so they are now looking at a search and recovery.

Tate tries to compliment Holly but she can continues to worry about failing her exam. Tate encourages her to relax as she has three years to make up for one bad test. Holly agrees that she needs to stop going crazy over this. Tate suggests they get away for the day and do something to celebrate the first day of summer, like a picnic by the lake but Holly says absolutely not to the lake.

Jada tells Sophia’s parents that she’s sorry but based on everything they have, the search team has determined there is no longer a chance of saving Sophia’s life. Amy questions if they are just going to stop looking. Jada says they will continue but their mission is to recover Sophia so she can be laid to rest. Amy cries that there’s still a chance that Sophia is still out there. Jada questions where Sophia is if she’s out there. Amy argues that Jada hasn’t deployed all resources because she thinks of Sophia as a monster instead of Holly, who pushed her down that path. Mr. Choi tries to calm her down as Amy screams that she will not accept that Sophia is gone.

Chanel asks Johnny what he means and if something happened. Johnny explains that it’s not that he can’t leave, but he won’t leave when she has her biopsy coming up after he already missed her mammogram. Chanel reminds him that he missed that because he almost died. Chanel argues that Johnny needs to rest, so she’s taking him home but Johnny says no way. Johnny points out that she’s always been there for him, so he’s going to make sure she knows they are in this together. Chanel says she appreciates that more than he knows, but it makes no difference since he won’t be allowed in the room during the procedure. Johnny says he’ll be in the waiting room then and insists she’s not getting rid of him that easy as he’s always going to be by her side.

Gabi questions Arianna wanting her to leave and complains about the way she’s talking to her. Gabi demands Arianna treat her with respect. Arianna tells Gabi to treat her with respect and asks if she thinks she can tell her how to act and feel. Arianna believes Gabi brought the soup over just to micromanage her and says she didn’t come to Salem for that. Gabi argues that she just cares about her and her future. Arianna complains that Gabi has no idea how overprotective Will and Sonny were in Arizona. Gabi assures that they were just looking out for her because they love her and she respects them keeping her safe from making bad choices. Gabi asks what Arianna actually thought would be different here and if she thought she could do whatever the hell she wants. Arianna admits that she didn’t think Gabi would pay attention to her because she’s always been all about herself. Arianna tells Gabi that it’s too late for her to be super mom now and declares that she doesn’t need her anymore, so she asks Gabi to just let her go.

Shawn guesses that Sarah is wondering why he’s staying with Jada instead of Belle. Sarah admits that she is because Belle offered first. Shawn says that being there in sickness and in health is no longer part of the job since he and Belle are divorced. Shawn says that he and Belle get along fine, but so do he and Jada. Shawn then brings up how he lied to Jada about the shooting and got caught, so things cooled off pretty quickly after that. Sarah responds that she knows all too well how lies can ruin a seemingly good thing. Shawn remarks that Jada is his boss anyways so it’s probably not a good idea to pursue anything other than friendship with her. Sarah asks if he’s sure about that.

Chanel comments on Johnny being really stubborn but also sweet. Johnny tells her that he loves her more than anything and wants to be there for her. Chanel admits she’s really relieved that she has him here to support her. Chanel adds that she also felt she had to be strong for her mother. Johnny asks what’s going on with Paulina. Chanel says she was going to tell him, but he’s not going to believe what EJ did now.

Holly can’t believe Tate would suggest going to the lake when being by the water would have them thinking about Sophia all day. Tate apologizes for not making that connection. Holly complains that she hasn’t felt the same since getting off Sophia’s anti psychotic meds and feels that nothing seems to be working when she just wants to feel normal again. Tate thinks he knows what might help as he hugs her.

Jada tells Sophia’s parents that she will give them a moment alone. Mr. Choi thanks her for all she has done as he knows none of this is easy. Jada then exits the room. Amy complains that Jada just told them that they are giving up on their daughter and he’s complimenting their efforts. Amy questions if he’s just accepting that Sophia is gone. He responds that he’s in the same terrible pain as her and assures that his heart is broken and he doesn’t want to believe she is gone. Amy doesn’t give a damn what they said and declares that she’s never given up on their daughter, so she won’t now. Amy feels that until they find a body, there’s a chance that Sophia is alive so she will cling to that chance as long as it exists.

Gabi questions Arianna saying she doesn’t need her anymore and remembers Arianna always wanting her attention when she was little. Arianna argues that she was always too busy dealing with whatever. Gabi shouts about going to prison and how much it hurt her to be separated from her. Gabi questions her throwing that in her face. Arianna says she knows Gabi didn’t leave on purpose, but regardless, she wasn’t in her life for a long time and can’t make up for lost time by trying to run her life and keep her from seeing Liam. Gabi calls Liam a felon and a thug, questioning why she’s even interested in him and what is the matter with her. Arianna remarks that she is her mother’s daughter and asks if she’s going to ground her. Gabi argues that she’s still her mother while Arianna responds that Gabi would rather prance around with Philip at the Kiriakis Mansion and maybe she’ll invite her over sometime. Gabi asks if that’s what this is all about and that she doesn’t like her being involved with Philip. Arianna responds that she’s very happy that she found someone to make her happy and that Philip is great, so she questions why Gabi can’t be happy for her. Gabi questions why she would be happy that she’s with Liam and what she could possibly see in him. Arianna argues that Liam is hot, edgy, and has so many layers which Gabi mocks. Gabi advises Arianna to ask herself if she can see herself spending a life with Liam. Gabi says she doesn’t get it, arguing that Arianna could have anyone she wants, and questions why him.

Sarah prepares Chanel for her biopsy.

Shawn is up on his crutches and goes over to Johnny. They talk about both being discharged today and waiting on their rides. Shawn asks about Johnny’s recovery. Johnny calls it just a bump on the head while Shawn says he heard he barely got out alive. Johnny says he won’t feel sorry for himself compared to Shawn being shot in the line of duty. Shawn says they are both walking out alive. Jada arrives and apologizes for being late. Shawn says that he and Johnny were just trading war stories and asks if Jada is okay. Jada responds that she’s not as she just had to break the news to Amy and Jason Choi that their daughter is most likely dead.

Tate tries to guide Holly through breathing exercises but Holly doesn’t want to, so they kiss until Amy Choi walks in and questions if this is how they are mourning Sophia. Amy informs them that police assume Sophia is dead and are now looking for her body. Tate and Holly say they are really sorry. Amy responds that she believes Tate but not Holly after what she did to her. Holly says she can’t imagine Amy’s grief but she is not going to be blamed for the nightmare that Sophia brought on herself. Holly says she’s sad that Sophia went the way she did but admits she’s not sad that Sophia is gone because that means she can’t hurt anyone else ever again.

Jada tells Johnny it must be difficult for him with everything that’s happened as he must have complicated feelings for Sophia. Johnny confirms he does because on one hand, she’s the biological mother of his son but on the other hand there’s everything she’s done. Jada calls it a tragedy that she didn’t get the help she needed. Johnny feels bad for her parents to lose their child like that. Shawn doesn’t think there is any worse kind of pain. Shawn suggests focusing on the positive, pointing out that he and Johnny narrowly escaped death while Johnny has his family and a baby on the way while he has a great friend helping him with his recovery, so they have a lot to be grateful for. Johnny agrees they also have a lot to look forward to as Shawn and Jada exit together.

Sarah checks on Chanel and instructs her to go home and rest, encouraging her to lean on the people in her life. Sarah thinks Paulina would welcome the distraction with everything going on in her life. Chanel asks when they will have the biopsy results. Sarah says it will take a few days. Sarah knows waiting is the worst part and advises her to try to do fun and distracting things while she waits. Sarah reminds Chanel that she is very loved and no matter what, she has the will and strength to take this as it comes. Chanel thanks her and says she will try to remember that.

Arianna questions how many times Gabi is going to ask why Liam. Arianna argues that he’s made mistakes but he’s a genuinely good person and good father who is trying really hard to better himself. Gabi questions how she’s helping him better himself, arguing that she’s been down that road before which can be very disappointing and lonely. Gabi asks what kind of relationship Arianna wants, pointing out that Will and Sonny have a loving marriage, questioning if someone like Liam can provide that for her. Arianna admits that she doesn’t know and gets what she’s saying, but the heart wants what it wants. Gabi acknowledges that she is her mother’s daughter, admitting that she was given a similar lecture at her age and didn’t want to listen either. Gabi states that she took a lot of hits learning from her mistakes, so Arianna tells her to let her learn from her mistakes.

Sarah brings Chanel back to Johnny, who asks how it went. Chanel says it went fine but she will be sore for the next few days and has been instructed to chill out. Johnny asks when they will have the results. Chanel says it will be a few days, so now they wait. Johnny asks Sarah what he can do to take care of Chanel. Chanel argues that Johnny is still recovering himself, so they will take care of each other. Sarah agrees and encourages applying ice and no heavy lifting, so they should accept any help with Trey. Sarah adds that Johnny’s recovery might take longer, so they must take it easy. Chanel thanks her for everything. Sarah tells them to go see their son so they exit the hospital together.

Gabi gives in to letting Arianna learn from her mistakes, but says she doesn’t want her to end up with heart broken like her with Stefan. Arianna points out that she’s over that and is with Philip now, so she can’t still be obsessing over Stefan. Gabi responds that she just learned that things didn’t end the way she thought they did as Philip went to Alamainia to do some digging and it turned out that she and Stefan’s divorce documents were forged, so he never signed them which shocks Arianna. Gabi points out that technically means she’s Stefan’s widow and not his ex-wife, so she’s entitled to inherit some of Stefano’s fortune. Arianna excitedly asks when she gets the money. Gabi says they still need to prove Stefan’s signature was forged which will be an uphill battle. Gabi adds that more important to her is that despite how she and Stefan ended, she now knows that he loved her until the very end, just like she loved him. Gabi wishes she had gotten to tell Stefan one last time.

Jada brings Shawn home and gets him set up in his room. Jada asks if he needs anything else. Shawn thinks getting in and out of the car and in to her place took more out of him than expected. Jada gives Shawn his painkillers. Shawn adds that he might need to go to his place to get some clothes and books but Jada reveals she already got his stuff. Shawn is impressed that she thought of everything. Jada says he’s worth it. Shawn calls it all very sweet of her, but he wants to make sure it’s not too much and that he’s not taking advantage of her generosity. Jada assures it’s not and comments that she wouldn’t mind if he took advantage of her.

Amy questions what Holly just said. Tate tries to intervene but Holly says she needs to say what she’s feeling. Holly apologizes for coming off so harshly but argues that Sophia did things that Amy refuses to even acknowledge. Holly states that Sophia drugged her and tried to ruin her life while Amy remarks that at least she has a life while Sophia does not. Tate points out that no one is certain that Sophia is gone and they’ve all done things they aren’t proud of. Tate suggests apologizing for their mistakes but Holly questions what she did wrong and argues that she had every right to vent on social media. Holly tells Amy that she’s sorry for her loss but Sophia made really bad choices and she is not going to take the blame for it.

Shawn questions Jada saying she wants him to take advantage of her. Jada clarifies that it was just a failed attempt at humor. Shawn says that’s too bad.

Johnny and Chanel sit together at home. Chanel mentions that Lani is bringing Trey home in a little bit but wanted to give them time to settle in. Johnny brings up the biopsy but Chanel wants to pause all that for now. Johnny asks how Paulina is doing with the whole Lexie situation as he can’t imagine what she must be going through. Chanel calls her the strongest person she knows, so if anyone can handle it, it’s her.

Arianna asks if Gabi is okay. Gabi responds that she’s fine and just thinking about Stefan’s death, how she wishes she had more time and that it didn’t end the way it did. Gabi states that life is so uncertain and that she can’t imagine how the Choi family is feeling now. Arianna calls it too sad and awful. Arianna apologizes for being hard on Gabi and admits that what happened to Sophia really messed her up. Gabi understands they were close friends. Arianna mentions bumping in to Amy earlier and she reminded her of when they were little girls together. Gabi remembers their play dates and sleepovers. Gabi admits she still sees her as that little girl and that she doesn’t know what she would do if anything happened to her. Arianna promises nothing is going to happen to her as they hug.

Amy mocks what a saint Holly is, bringing up abusing drugs and lying. Amy reminds Tate of when he was being unjustly prosecuted for Holly’s drug use and calls her a trashy little liar who destroys everyone around her. Amy declares that if Sophia really is gone, she will make sure Holly ends up in prison and will not escape the wrath of God for what she did to her little girl. Sarah walks in and tells Amy that’s enough. Sarah says she’s sorry for her loss and her pain, but it’s time for her to leave. Sarah walks Amy out while Tate hugs Holly as she breaks down crying.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, June 2, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Johnny told Marlena that Chanel had cancer. After he talked to Marlena, he and Chanel went to her doctor’s appointment. Dr. George let Chanel know how dire her situation was. He told her she was getting chemo. Chanel gave him statistics about black women and breast cancer. When Dr. George was uncaring towards her, she told him that it was her life, body, and future. She wanted him to treat her like a person. Dr. George told her to stay off the internet and get chemo. Marlena wanted Xander in her office so they could talk. She said she was thinking about John. Marlena said John was close to Johnny. Since Xander and Kate were trying to destroy Johnny, she was going to walk away from him as his doctor. She told him the only way she would continue being his doctor is if he dropped the lawsuit. Marlena told Xander that he had to take responsibility for his actions despite his progress. He said he could fix it. She told him to do it or they were finished. Xander told her she was extorting him, but she didn’t care. He said if he did what Marlena wanted and the truth came out, Roman would never forgive Kate. Marlena didn’t care.

Alex took Kelsey to see Justin. Bonnie showed up and talked about the lawsuit. She said she felt bad about what happened and didn’t mean to plagiarize. Justin and Alex let her know they were by her side. Joy talked to Kate about being nervous that Kelsey was with Alex. She told Kate that she felt better about Stephanie not being in town. Joy said she was tired of feeling like the bad guy. Kate said she wasn’t the bad guy. Roman showed up while they were talking. Kate yelled at him. He wanted to talk to her so he could apologize to her. While they were talking, Roman said he would fight for her if she said she didn’t set up Johnny. Alex brought Kelsey back to Joy. He told her he had to talk to Stephanie before they made plans for him to see Kelsey. Joy wasn’t happy about it.

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