Days Update Friday, January 23, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Belle greets Marlena at home and asks how Julie’s Book Club was yesterday. Marlena responds that it was rough, surprising Belle.

At the Horton House, Jennifer asks Chad if there’s any word on Jeremy. Chad says not yet but he hoped they would have some news before having to tell Thomas what’s going on. Jennifer says there’s no harm in holding off for now since Jeremy is Thomas’s favorite teacher and his cousin. Chad points out that Stephanie is his cousin too which makes the whole thing weird, trying to figure out how to tell him that one cousin is stalking another.

Alex and Stephanie are at home together. Stephanie doesn’t know how she will get any work done while Alex says he barely slept either. Stephanie can’t believe Jeremy made the website about her. Stephanie admits she was worried Jeremy might cause some trouble, but never thought he’d go this far. Alex declares that Jeremy has been caught now, so they can hope this nightmare is finally behind them.

Melinda Trask joins Jeremy in the interrogation room to represent him. Jeremy thanks her for representing him and says he’s heard a lot about her. Melinda says considering his family, she’s surprised he reached out. Jeremy admits that his go to is generally Justin, but considering he’s being accused of threatening to kill his son, that was out of the question so Julie suggested Melinda and said she’s a shark which is exactly what he needs right now.

At the police station, Julie tells Jada that she knows that she wants to keep Stephanie safe, but she’s harassing an innocent man. Jada knows she’s upset but suggests she go home and get some rest after being there all night. Julie says she is not one to take a nap while her family is in trouble, so she’s not going anywhere.

Marlena explains to Belle that she was there with Maggie and Julie but when it came time to share her feelings, she couldn’t find the words. Belle is sure they understood. Marlena calls it still embarrassing. Belle questions why when she just lost her husband not long ago. Belle asks what Marlena would tell herself if she was her own patient. Marlena responds that everyone grieves in their own way in their own time which Belle says includes her.

Chad asks if Jennifer believes that Jeremy did what they are saying. Jennifer says she doesn’t want to, but doesn’t know what to believe and argues that the idea that Jeremy was living in their house while secretly stalking Stephanie doesn’t even make sense. Chad agrees and points out that Jeremy is great with the kids and seems like a good guy. Chad hopes Jeremy is just being falsely accused and this is all just a giant mistake. Jennifer hopes he’s right.

Steve gets up and greets Alex and Stephanie, saying he hopes they didn’t sleep as bad as he did since he was really wound up. Stephanie points out that now Steve can finally go home but Steve says he can’t. Alex asks why not since Jeremy is in custody but Steve reveals he isn’t because Jada didn’t arrest him, she only brought him in for questioning and can only hold him for 24 hours unless he confesses. Steve declares they are stuck with him for now because he’s not letting his guard down yet and is not going anywhere.

Melinda asks Jeremy to go over why he’s at the police station. Jeremy explains that Jada asked him to come down for questioning because someone has been stalking his ex Stephanie Johnson and they think it’s him because someone made a creepy website about Stephanie and the company who sold the URL said he paid for it, but he swears he did not. Melinda questions why the company says he did. Jeremy insists he’s being setup and she’s got to believe him.

Julie asks Jada to at least have JJ or Shawn question Jeremy if she’s going to hold him. Jada says they are his cousins so that would be a conflict of interest. Julie remarks that’s never been a problem for the Salem police department. Julie argues that if they had this great evidence against him, they would’ve arrested him by now but that proves he didn’t do it. Jada hopes she’s right but if it turns out that Jeremy is the crazed fan, he will be brought to justice.

Chad tells Jennifer that he wanted to talk to her about the custody situation since Julie said Thomas wasn’t on board with what they figured out yesterday. Jennifer says that he is, but he just still has concerns about the promise Chad made to keep Cat out of his life, since he’s broken it before so he’s afraid he won’t be able to keep it now either. Chad insists that he will if that’s what is best for the kids. Jennifer knows that’s his intention but she thinks Thomas needs more than just his word.

Marlena thanks Belle for reminding her what she tells her clients about grief, that they have to be patient with themselves. Belle encourages that the mystery book club meeting will be a lot more low key so she might have a good time.

Steve says they are really lucky to have Jada on their side as she will do everything within the boundaries of the law to keep Jeremy away and now that they know he’s behind the website, he’s filed a restraining order to force him to keep his distance from Stephanie and Alex. Steve adds that even though all the evidence points towards Jeremy, they haven’t proved that he’s the stalker, so until they do, he’s still a threat.

Melinda states that the police have nothing but circumstantial evidence and that creating a website is not a crime, so the odds of charging him with anything are low. Jeremy questions why they are holding him then. Melinda guesses they want to strongarm him in to a confession. Jeremy says he has nothing to confess so Melinda says they will wait it out. Melinda says even if he did, she could get it down to a lesser offense. Jeremy refuses to confess because he’s innocent and saying otherwise would tank his career. Melinda says losing his career pales in comparison to losing his freedom. Jeremy worries that any confession would mean he would never work as a teacher again or be near kids, so his life would basically be over.

Julie tells Jada that she truly believes Jeremy is not guilty. Jada understands that she wants to think the best of her family. Julie explains that a little while ago, Jeremy told her that he was planning to leave Salem because he didn’t think he could ever get a fair shake here since too many people seem unable to forgive and forget the mistakes he made when he was younger. Julie believes that alone should close her case against him. Jada asks why it would do that. Julie calls it obvious that if Jeremy was ready to leave Salem on his own, then he’s not a threat to Stephanie or Alex. Jada responds that she doesn’t see it that way at all.

Marlena tells Belle that she has a talent for saying the right things in the right moment when someone is upset. Marlena jokes that she could’ve been a therapist but says she’s doing very well on her own path and she’s proud of her. Marlena adds that John was proud of her, Paul, and Brady too. Belle asks if she’s heard from Brady and wonders what he will do now that he’s been fired from Basic Black. Marlena says she hasn’t heard from him but she knows he’s trying hard to find his own path. Marlena mentions suggesting to him that this time could be a gift to spend with Rachel. Marlena thinks sometimes Brady is a lot like John in putting other people’s needs before his own and worrying about the rest of the staff at Basic Black while realizing it’s John’s legacy. Belle agrees that someone from the family should carry on John’s legacy and reveals she has a suggestion on who that might be. Belle then suggests Marlena herself.

Chad asks if Jennifer is saying that she doesn’t trust his word and if she and Jack are going to take this back to court. Jennifer says no and just thinks they can revisit the terms to find something Thomas is okay with. Chad argues that Thomas is 10 years old and doesn’t get to dictate their terms. Jennifer worries that Thomas could cause a problem if he feels he’s not being heard and says that all he wants is for Chad to reassure him that Cat will never be a part of his life. Jennifer says it’s not that Thomas doesn’t want Chad to find someone to love again and adds that he just told her he was sad things didn’t work out between Chad and Stephanie. Chad says that ship has sailed.

Stephanie questions if Steve doesn’t think Jeremy is the one who was terrorizing them. Steve says he just thinks it’s safer not to take anything for granted, but adds that it is possible that someone created the website to make Jeremy look guilty. Alex asks why anyone would want to do that. Steve suggests Jeremy could have enemies out there that want to set him up and repeats that it’s unlikely, but they have to consider the possibility.

Jada joins Jeremy and Melinda in the interrogation room and asks if he’s ready to talk. Jeremy responds that he hasn’t been following Stephanie, taking pictures of her, writing about her on the internet, or buy that website domain. Jeremy adds that he has no idea who did any of those things. Jada mocks that not being helpful. Melinda guesses they are done here unless there’s anything else she needs from Jeremy. Jada states that the one thing she needs from him is the truth.

Marlena tells Belle that she can’t run a company as she has no experience doing that and a a few weeks ago, she was about to retire. Belle clarifies that she’s not saying Marlena should run Basic Black, but oversee it while someone from Titan manages the line and she provides input on behalf of the family. Marlena guesses that wouldn’t be too difficult and she could run her practice at the same time. Marlena admits that John’s legacy is terribly important to her. Belle says it is to all of them and asks if Marlena will do it. Marlena agrees to think about it.

Chad tells Jennifer that his kids’ happiness is the most important thing to him but he’s drawing the line at allowing her and Thomas to dictate who he can or cannot be in a relationship with. Jennifer argues that there’s one person they don’t want him with. Chad responds that he’s not involved with that person anymore. Jennifer repeats that Thomas just needs more reassurance. Chad asks if he’s supposed to write it in blood or move to Antarctica to make sure he never runs into her again. Jennifer responds that it’s not even about Cat anymore, it’s about Thomas and being able to trust his father again.

Alex says there’s a lot of evidence pointing to Jeremy, not just buying the domain name. Steve agrees and brings up when Jeremy came back to Salem and his history with Stephanie. Steve says it all fits their theory but it’s not hard proof so there’s still a lot of blanks to fill in. Alex feels it can’t be a coincidence and that they’ve given Jeremy the benefit of the doubt long enough. Stephanie can’t believe Jeremy has this fantasy after all these years. Stephanie states that if Jeremy comes anywhere near her again, he will be sorry.

Jeremy tells Jada that he’s telling her the truth even if she doesn’t want to believe him. Jada says she does want to believe him as it would make her life a lot easier, but she doesn’t believe him. Melinda tells Jada to either press charges or let him go. Jada argues that they can legally hold him for 12 more hours which Melinda says would be a waste of time and money. Melinda says there is no way Belle will press charges against Jeremy with circumstantial evidence and suggests letting him go. Jada warns Jeremy not to leave town. Jeremy points out that he was going to move but Jada repeats for him not to leave town as she exits the room.

Chad tells Jennifer that he will talk to Thomas and do his best to make sure he understands he will keep the promise. Chad adds that Jennifer and Jack can’t be a part of the conversation as it has to be between he and his son. Chad warns that if they are going to weigh in on every decision he makes, he will see them in court. Chad asks if that’s understood but Thomas comes in so they greet him. Thomas thought Jeremy was taking him to school today but he can’t find him. Chad informs him that Jeremy is going to be absent today, so Thomas asks if he’s sick. Chad says he just had some stuff to take care of. Chad brings up that Jennifer told him that he had some worries about their custody agreement and asks if he wants to talk about it before they hit the road. Jennifer decides to give them some privacy and exits as Chad sits with Thomas. Chad asks Thomas exactly what he’s worried about and how he can make him feel better. Thomas responds that he doesn’t know as he was so mad at him but then he was so scared when he was missing and now he just wishes things could be back to the way they were. Chad responds that he does too.

Marlena looks at a photo of her and John as Belle finishes a call and tells Marlena that she has to get to work as apparently Jeremy has been brought in for questioning. Belle says it apparently has to do with Stephanie and he’s already been released, but he’s still a suspect. Marlena worries that Julie must be beside herself.

Julie hugs Jeremy and asks how he’s feeling. Jeremy says he’s exhausted but fine. Julie can’t believe they kept him all night. Jeremy questions if she’s been there all night. Julie says she wasn’t going to leave him. Jeremy thanks her as it means a lot and knows it can’t be easy for her if most of her friends and most of Salem think he’s guilty. Julie responds that she doesn’t as she knows he has a good heart and she believes in him. Jeremy says she may be the only one as he hugs her.

Alex tells Stephanie that if Jeremy is stupid enough to come near her again, all three of them will make sure he’s sorry. Stephanie says she will hold him to that. Jada shows up at their door. Stephanie asks how it went with Jeremy. Jada responds that she’s sorry but she had to let him go because there wasn’t enough evidence. Jada adds that Jeremy claims the website isn’t his and even if it was, it’s not a crime. Alex questions what the hell to do now and if they are just supposed to wait for him to commit another crime and hope to catch him in the act. Steve says they aren’t waiting for him to do anything as there are other ways to force him out. Jada is not sure she wants to know, but first points out that there’s a box outside the door. Stephanie assures she didn’t order anything as she’s been too afraid to have any stranger anywhere near her place. Steve decides he will check it out so he grabs gloves and brings in the box from Ornaments on the Square. Steve opens the card to see who it’s from.

Chad tells Thomas that nothing is more important to him than he and Charlotte as they are his world. Chad states that he can’t be happy unless they are happy and it kills him that Thomas feels he can’t trust him. Thomas says he wants to, so maybe he’ll stay for awhile and move to Jack and Jennifer’s if it doesn’t work out. Chad tells him that’s not an option. Chad wants to find a way to move forward but he can’t threaten to move away every time he makes a decision he doesn’t like. Thomas admits that makes sense. Chad says he’s willing to prove to him that he can trust him. Chad acknowledges that Cat lied when she pretended to be Abigail and he knows she didn’t just hurt him, but Jack and Jennifer and he and Charlotte. Chad calls it fair if Thomas doesn’t want Cat in his life, so maybe there’s a way to give him more than just his word. Chad informs him that he promised Jack and Jennifer that he would never get involved with Cat when they agreed to drop the custody suit. Chad decides he can call Melinda to put it in writing as part of their agreement, so it would be legally binding and the courts could get involved if he goes back on his word. Thomas asks if he could go to jail. Chad says it’s nothing like that, but Jack and Jennifer would be able to petition for custody again and would have a much stronger argument if he didn’t hold up his end. Chad asks if putting it in writing would help Thomas trust him again. Thomas admits that it would a lot.

Julie goes to see Marlena and Belle. Julie tells Marlena that she’s glad she’s feeling better but she’s still sorry about yesterday. Julie says she’s sure that Belle has heard Jeremy has been released. Belle confirms she heard and they aren’t filing charges today but she can’t promise about the future and that’s probably all she’s allowed to say. Julie believes very deeply that Jeremy is not guilty of these shocking things he’s been accused of by people rushing to say he’s guilty. Julie reveals to Belle that Jeremy was planning to leave Salem because everyone with their pitchforks was getting to be too much but Jada told him he can’t leave town and now he’s in limbo. Belle questions if Jada said he couldn’t leave town and doesn’t think it was an order, but a strong suggestion, as there’s no law keeping him in town when he hasn’t been charged with anything. Belle thinks Jada was trying to say that Jeremy would look suspicious if he left Salem. Belle thinks that if Jeremy is innocent, he should stay put and prove it.

Chad calls Melinda to make an adjustment to the mediation agreement and put in formal writing that if he pursues a relationship with Cat Green, then Jack and Jennifer can revisit the custody agreement with Thomas’s permission. Melinda doesn’t think it’s a good idea to give away leverage. Chad explains that he’s not doing it to protect himself but to build trust with his son. Melinda agrees to write something up and e-mail it to him. Chad thanks her and says he’ll be in touch as he hangs up. Chad asks Thomas if he’s happy. Thomas says that he is. Chad says he’s happy if he’s happy. Chad adds that Thomas will have to meet him in the middle because Salem is a very small town so they will run in to Cat from time to time, so he doesn’t want him to jump to conclusions every time he says hello to her or helps her with a heavy bag of groceries. Chad says that they can’t pretend Cat doesn’t exist, but if Thomas doesn’t want her in his life then she won’t be. Thomas thinks he can live with that. Chad sends Thomas to go get Charlotte so he can take them to school.

Steve reveals the package was an engagement congratulations from EJ. Stephanie is surprised while Alex questions how EJ even knew. Stephanie guesses he saw their blurb in the Spectator and had Rita send something. Steve remarks that at least their planted announcement got someone to take action, just not the someone they wanted.

Unbeknownst to Stephanie, Alex, Steve, and Jada, the delivered package was bugged with a recording device. The mystery stalker is sitting at a desk wearing a leather jacket and black gloves as they listen in to the conversation where Stephanie asks Steve about drawing the stalker out. Steve responds that the good thing about Jeremy being cut loose is now they can set a trap for him.

Stephanie says if they need to use her as bait, she’s all in but Alex says no way. Alex brings up that the message board post said he wanted to get rid of him to have Stephanie all too himself, so he will be the bait.

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Days Update Thursday, January 22, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Gabi sits at Theo’s side in the hospital as Theo tells her jokes and they laugh until JJ walks in.

Julie goes home while on the phone with Marlena, apologizing again for joking at the Book Club but Marlena assures there’s no hard feelings. Julie says she’ll check back with her soon as they hang up. Julie then heads in to the living room and greets Jeremy, who is working on his laptop. Jeremy asks how the Book Club went. Julie says it went and asks where everybody is since it’s so quiet. Jeremy informs her that Jack and Jennifer took the kids out for pizza as they thought it would cheer Thomas up. Julie questions Thomas needing cheering up. Jeremy responds that Thomas apparently was not too happy with the details that Jack, Jennifer, and Chad agreed to at mediation.

Stephanie and Jada sit together in the town square. Stephanie says it’s been a blast wedding shopping with her even if it is part of their plan to bait the stalker. Jada agrees that she’s having a lot of fun too. Jada hopes that creep reveals his identity too so she can actually do her maid of honor duties rather than constantly looking over their shoulder. Jada adds that they did have plain clothes officers with them on the lookout which shocks Stephanie as she had no idea anyone was following them. Stephanie worries about how much that’s costing the police department but Jada reveals it’s actually not costing a cent.

Alex joins Philip at Titan and questions that he just found out Xander sacked Brady and argues against not being included on major decisions. Philip says he would’ve liked to have been included too but it wasn’t exactly a pre-meditated firing. Alex asks if he’s saying this was just a Xander temper tantrum right in the middle of an all hands on deck crisis for the company. Alex argues that Titan doesn’t need more bad press but Philip clarifies that it’s not being presented as a firing, but as a mutual decision. Steve comes in behind Alex, so Philip asks if he can help him with something but Alex says he’s with him as he introduces Steve as his future father-in-law and personal bodyguard.

Julie tells Jeremy that she just saw Chad and he said the mediation went well, so she asks if Thomas is unhappy to stay in Salem and live with his father. Jeremy explains that from what Jennifer said, Thomas is still having difficulty because of the whole Cat Green situation and trusting Chad. Julie calls it a mess for a child to have to deal with all these unresolved issues. Julie asks if he thinks this will affect the outcome of the agreement. Jeremy says her guess is as good as his.

JJ apologizes for interrupting and says he can come back later but Gabi says it’s okay and Theo says the more the merrier. JJ brought burgers from the Brady Pub. Gabi then announces she can’t stay long because she has a date with Philip.

Philip remembers seeing Alex and Stephanie’s engagement announcement and says he’s really happy for them, but questions why Alex needs a bodyguard when he thought they were worried about Stephanie. Alex responds that there’s been recent developments which Philip questions. Steve reveals that the stalker threatened to kill Alex which in his crazy mind means having Stephanie all to himself.

Stephanie questions how having police officers follow them around isn’t costing the department anything. Jada reveals that Alex is paying for her to have around the clock protection. Stephanie notes that Alex didn’t say anything to her about it, meanwhile he’s the one with a target on his back after the stalker posted on the message board that he wanted to murder Alex. Stephanie is starting to wish she never wrote her book.

Theo tells Gabi to enjoy her date with Philip and thanks her for coming to see him again. Gabi hopes next time she sees him, he’ll be out of the bed and running. Gabi says bye to JJ and exits. Theo tells JJ that he couldn’t help but notice his reaction when Gabi said she had a date with Philip and asks if there’s any reason for that.

Julie tells Jeremy that Thomas needs to trust his father again and asks Jeremy to talk to him. Jeremy says he will if Chad thinks it’s a good idea. Julie asks how Thomas is doing in school. Jeremy says he’s doing good and always does his homework. Julie asks how Jeremy is doing now. Jeremy reveals that he turned down continuing to be a substitute teacher in the district and announces he’s leaving Salem for good.

Jada questions Stephanie wishing she never wrote One Stormy Night even after her success. Stephanie admits at first it felt like a dream come true and she got caught up in the glamour and attention of it all, but if that started all this then it wasn’t worth it. Stephanie worries about something happening to Alex. Jada assures that nothing will happen to either of them on her watch or Steve’s.

Philip says he’s sorry to hear this guy isn’t just a nutty fan but apparently homicidal and asks if there’s anything Titan can do to help. Steve says he’s got it covered. Philip asks who is watching Stephanie. Steve responds that she’s with the police commissioner today while Alex adds that she also has plain clothes police officers watching her. Philip asks how long they think this will go on and if there’s a plan in place. Alex assures they have a plan which Steve notes it’s confidential. Philip argues that he needs to hear it since Alex and Stephanie are very important to Titan and to him, so if they are in danger because of a book his company published, he needs to know what’s being done to rectify the situation. Steve agrees and explains that they think the guy will be eager to act now that the engagement announcement is out, so they hope to lure him in to a trap. Philip worries that it’s dangerous considering the guy is poised to kill. Steve responds that he doesn’t like provoking the guy but doing nothing could be a lot more dangerous.

JJ claims to Theo that he didn’t realize he had a reaction to Gabi having a date and guesses he was just disappointed she had to leave so soon. Theo is impressed that JJ remembered his burger order and says it’s really good to see him. JJ responds that it’s really good to see him awake and admits he was really worried and that seeing him unconscious brought back a lot of tough memories. JJ says he was pacing the halls and praying that Theo would come back to them. Theo appreciates his prayers and says he’s sorry for how he came after JJ when he decided to go back to the police department. JJ thanks him but says he has nothing to be sorry for because he was right that he shouldn’t have gone back without talking to him first. JJ reiterates that he took his concerns seriously and has been continuing his training that emphasizes de-escalation. JJ hopes he’ll never have to reach for his service weapon again.

Alex and Steve eat together at the Brady Pub and talk sports. Alex wishes they could’ve bonded like this under less trying circumstances and he hates that Steve had to put his life on hold to protect him and Stephanie. Steve assures that nothing is more important to him than them. Steve adds that he has been doing other work like helping Rafe with the Peter Blake case. Alex didn’t know that Black Patch worked with the FBI. Steve calls this more personal and says in his line of work, trust is everything. Steve knows that Rafe, Bo, and Hope trust him. Alex asks if they have any leads. Steve says he can’t say much but reveals that Bo and Hope are heading to Alamainia to do some leg work which is a big help because there’s no way he’s leaving town when Alex and Stephanie are his first priority.

Julie tells Jeremy that she tried to talk him out of leaving Salem but she sees now that he’s made his decision and he’s determined. Julie says she’s going to miss him terribly and she’s sure the children will too, if they even stay in Salem after Thomas’s reaction to the mediation. Jeremy knows there’s a lot up in the air but he doubts the kids will move to Boston. Jeremy says Thomas is dealing with complicated feelings but he loves his dad, has his friends here, and they adore Julie. Julie says they’ve been a great comfort to her. Jeremy encourages that Thomas will come around in time. Julie asks where Jeremy will be moving on to. Jeremy responds that he hasn’t decided yet, so he might just leave town and see where the wind takes him.

Stephanie tells Jada that she’s glad the town square is quiet right now. Jada knows this situation must be bringing up scary memories for her. Stephanie says she wants to be brave which is why she’s putting herself out there as bait. Stephanie adds that she could never admit it to Alex or Steve, but she is terrified.

Philip and Gabi meet in the park. Philip wishes he could do more for Stephanie and Alex but says it sounds like Steve and Jada have it covered, so he suggests that he and Gabi just try to stay in the moment tonight. Gabi says that sounds like a plan. They come across a game of Cornhole with an ad for Saxton’s spring campaign. Gabi worries about Gabi Chic not being ready for their spring campaign. Philip points out that she can compete in the bean bag toss or he wins by default. Philip jokes that he loves that she hates losing as they kiss.

Steve tells Alex that he’s sorry to say he struck out on tracking the IP address of the psycho stalker from the message board. Alex feels that means he’s going to great lengths to hide his identity which Steve calls another red flag. Alex asks if he still thinks it could be Jeremy Horton. Steve says he’s not ruling it out and hopes to be proven wrong. Steve then gets a text from Hope, revealing she found another website which he shows to Alex. Alex remarks that it’s like a virtual shrine to Stephanie and that they even posted their engagement pictures. Steve says they just need to find the name of the person who purchased the URL domain, so thanks to Bo and Hope, they may not have to wait for the guy to make a move after all.

Jada tells Stephanie that she’s sorry this is so hard on her and reminds her that she doesn’t have to put herself at risk but Stephanie says she does. Stephanie complains that the stalker has taken her sense of safety, so she’s taking it all back. Stephanie wishes the guy would make his move. Jada feels it won’t be long now.

Theo tells JJ that he’s glad he’s taking classes but questions it being realistic that JJ thinks he’ll never use his gun again. JJ states that most officers go their whole career without firing their weapon, outside of the shooting range. Theo says he doesn’t need to hear how difficult the idea of using his weapon again is, but that he’s prepared for high stakes situation and making the split second decisions. JJ promises to do the work and not let fear compromise his brain. Theo is glad they talked about this as he knows how traumatized JJ was after his shooting, so much that he tried to take his own life. Theo admits he’s been hard on him lately, but no matter how angry he got, he never stopped believing that the world is a better place with JJ in it. JJ thanks him and says it means a lot as he’s grateful for his friendship and for Gabi’s since she talked him out of it. Theo asks if JJ’s sure he wasn’t upset when Gabi said she had a date with Philip. JJ admits that Theo knows him well and he wishes it didn’t but it did bother him. JJ explains that when he got back to Salem, he and Gabi started seeing each other again and he was really hoping it would work out this time. JJ wonders if they would still be together if he hadn’t gone back to the police force.

Philip asks how Gabi is doing with the whole Stefan thing. Gabi says she’s doing as good as can be, so she’s okay one minute and then not the next. Gabi explains that Rafe is heading to Alamainia to question Vivian and find out if Stefan is really dead. Philip asks if Stefan is alive, would Gabi want him back? Gabi assures that she would not as she wanted nothing to do with Stefan before, so this wouldn’t change anything. Philip remembers Gabi being surprised by how the news affected her. Gabi admits she loved Stefan, but he broke her heart and shattered the illusion of what she thought they had. Gabi adds that one of the last things she said about him was that she wished he were dead which haunts her. Gabi hopes he isn’t dead, but that doesn’t mean she wants him back.

Julie knows Jeremy had a hard time with people accepting he was a changed man, so she hopes he’s not being run out of town. Jeremy admits his reputation played a factor but he knows it’s the right decision for him. Jeremy assures that he’ll miss teaching, the kids, and being here with Julie but he should’ve known he has too much baggage. Julie then asks if his decision was influenced by Stephanie’s engagement to Alex. Jeremy insists that it doesn’t and that he didn’t come back to Salem to win Stephanie back. Julie believed there might have been a sliver of hope that they would reconcile. Jeremy admits when he read Stephanie’s book, it crossed his mind that maybe she was trying to communicate something to him, but as soon as he found out she had a long term boyfriend, he backed off. Julie asks if his feelings backed off. Jeremy admits that no matter where he is, he will always feel like Stephanie was the one who got away or the one he pushed away with his own bad behavior. Jeremy says he tried to make amends with Stephanie but at some point he has to respect people’s boundaries. Julie tells him that she’s so sorry. Jeremy says he’s just glad Stephanie is happy because she deserves it.

Alex tells Steve that he will be so relieved when this is over. Stephanie and Jada come in and join them. Steve gets another text and asks to speak to Jada in private so they step aside. Stephanie sits with Alex and tells him that Jada just told her about Alex paying for 24 hour security for her out of his own pocket and asks why he didn’t tell her. Alex responds that he didn’t want her to worry about the cost because peace of mind does not have a price tag. Stephanie is glad Jada told her so that she can tell him how grateful she is. Alex is surprised she’s not mad at him because she said she didn’t like people making the decisions for her. Stephanie says she can make an exception in this case and admits it was really sweet of him. Stephanie adds that knowing how protective he is of her means more than he knows. To the side, Steve asks Jada if this is enough. Jada responds that since Hope confirmed who owns the URL, it’s more than enough and she’ll take it from here. Jada then exits the Pub as Steve looks worried back at Stephanie and Alex.

Theo tells JJ that he did not know he and Gabi got back together again after he came back to Salem. JJ says it wasn’t for long since Gabi didn’t take too kindly to him bringing her in for questioning during the who shot EJ investigation. JJ remarks that it seems like Gabi and Philip are happy. Theo doesn’t think it’s going to last. JJ asks why he says that.

Philip tells Gabi that he knows relationships can be complicated, but if Stefan didn’t want her, he was out of his mind. Philip says he’s sorry that Stefan hurt her so badly. Gabi thanks him and says she’s sorry for going on about her reportedly dead ex. Philip says he’s the one who brought it up. Gabi understands it affects him too. Gabi adds that speaking of breaking hearts, she could kill Leo for breaking Javi’s. Philip asks what she thinks is going to happen there. Gabi responds that Javi is in Texas and she’s talked to him every day, but he’s shattered. Philip says they were so close to happiness before Dimitri showed up, comparing it to the film The Graduate which Gabi calls one of her favorites. Gabi guesses Philip will connect that to Stefan but assures that even if Stefan were alive, she would not ride off into the sunset with him. Gabi tells Philip that if she had to choose, she would choose him in a heartbeat as they kiss. Philip jokes that he may come across as full of himself at times, but it’s to mask his deep insecurities. Philip calls it a very welcome ego boost to hear someone as special as her would choose him. Gabi declares that Philip is the only man she has eyes for and she only wants him. They kiss until Philip suggests taking it back to his room but first they agree to one more game of Cornhole.

JJ asks Theo again why he doesn’t think Gabi and Philip are going to last. Theo thinks back to Gabi admitting to him that she planted the bug in Xander’s office to help Tony get DiMera back and agreeing to keep it between them. Theo calls it just a feeling but says nevermind.

Steve reveals to Stephanie and Alex that Jada just took off to bring in a suspect for questioning in Stephanie’s stalker case. Stephanie calls that great while Alex asks if he’s going to tell them who it is.

Julie and Jeremy eat pizza together until Jada shows up at the door, demanding they open up. Julie is shocked while Jeremy says he will handle it and answers the door. Jada informs Jeremy that she needs him to come down to the police station. Jeremy asks what for. Jada thinks he knows. Jeremy says he doesn’t and asks if he’s under arrest. Jada asks if he would like to be because they can make that happen if he refuses to come. Julie says it must be a misunderstanding. Jada responds that she’s sure it’s not as someone has been stalking and threatening Stephanie and Alex online and they have evidence that person is Jeremy.

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Days Opinion For The Week Of January 19, 2026

Opinion Article

 

by Michele & Cheryl

Gwen from days

The writers are going overboard manipulating the audience into thinking Gwen is the villain when it comes to Dimitri and Leo. Were we supposed to forget that Dimitri was the one who used Gwen to get an inheritance? He was also the same one who cheated on her with her best friend. Now that she wants to make Dimitri pay for what he did, she is suddenly the villain? Don’t get us wrong. Gwen is a villain. She’s just not one in this storyline. No matter how annoying the writers make Gwen, she is not the bad guy. Dimitri deserves everything Gwen does to him and more. We don’t sympathize with him just because he fell in love with Leo and can’t be with him. It serves him right that he can’t be with Leo after what he did to Gwen. 

Trey’s christening was missing some people. Johnny didn’t have any of his relatives at the christening. It’s not like he doesn’t have family in Salem yet none of them were there. The writers came up with a way to explain some of his family being missing, but didn’t explain why the rest of them weren’t there. Roman, in particular, should have been at the christening. There was no mention of him being out of town the way Marlena and Belle conveniently were. The christening may have been short notice but that doesn’t justify why people weren’t there. 

Javi showed that he has a bitter side. He refused to listen to Leo when he tried to save their marriage. Javi must have forgotten that he was the one who told Leo to go to Dimitri. Leo did what he wanted him to do. He chose Javi but it wasn’t enough for him. We know the writers had to come up with a reason to write Javi’s character off the show, but they could have done a better job than that. Javi could have left town to be with his father and still stayed married to Leo. We read that Javi’s character was getting recasted so there was no reason to have him break up with Leo. 

Is anyone else sick of watching Stephanie play the victim in the stalker story? We know she’s being targeted, but we find ourselves rooting for the stalker. She doesn’t seem to care much about her life being on the line. All she’s worried about is having sex with Alex. She doesn’t even appreciate the efforts Steve is doing to protect. He put his life on hold to make sure she was safe, but all she whines about is wanting to be alone with Alex. Steve should leave the apartment and let the stalker get Stephanie. We know he wouldn’t do that because he loves her, but it would serve her right if the stalker got her. The stalker story isn’t a bad story, but they put someone in the story that we don’t care about. We like how Steve is involved in the story, but he’s not in it enough. 

We were proud of Chad for standing up to Jennifer when she told him to stay away from Cat. Jennifer had a lot of nerve expecting him to follow her orders in order for him to keep his children. We understand that she has issues with Cat, but she didn’t have the right to tell him who he should see. Chad shouldn’t be with Cat after what she did to him but it should be his decision whether or not he wants to be around her. Jennifer is lucky he hasn’t tried to keep the kids from her. If he wants to be petty, he could take the kids on a private island and keep them from her. He chose to let Jack and Jennifer be in the kids’ lives yet that’s not enough for Jennifer. She wants to control him as if she has more of a say with the kids than he does. We enjoyed watching tell her that he would fight her for the kids if she didn’t agree to his terms. 

 

Chad from Days

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 Friday, January 23, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Belle asked Marlena about the book club. Marlena said she couldn’t talk about her feelings and was embarrassed. Belle told her to give herself a break. Marlena understood what she was saying. When they finished talking about book club, they talked about Brady and Basic Black. Belle said Marlena could provide input on behalf of the family. Marlena said she would think about it. When Belle checked her messages, she heard about what was going on with Jeremy. Jennifer and Chad talked about Thomas. She said she needed more than his word that he would do the right thing. Jennifer said they had to revisit the terms to make Thomas feel better. She said it wasn’t about Cat. It was about helping Thomas trust him again. Chad said he would talk to Thomas, but he wanted them to stay out of it or he would take them to court. Thomas came in the room. Chad wanted to talk to Thomas. Thomas said he wanted things to be the way they were. Chad said he would do whatever it took to gain his trust. He promised to stay away from Cat and was willing to put the promise in writing.

At the police station, Julie demanded that Jeremy be released, but Jada refused to listen. She told Julie about the conflict of interest having Jeremy’s cousins interrogate him. Jada said Jeremy would be brought to justice if he was a danger to Stephanie. Julie said Jeremy wasn’t a threat to Stephanie since he was leaving town. Jada said that made him a bigger threat. Melinda showed up to represent Jeremy. Jeremy told Melinda what was going on and said he was innocent. Melinda told him to wait it out because the police had nothing on him and just wanted to confession. Jeremy said he had nothing to confess. Jada came back. Jeremy gave his statement and said he didn’t stalk Stephanie or threaten Alex. Jada wanted him to tell the truth. She said he did it and wanted him to confess. Melinda called her bluff. Jada warned Jeremy not to leave town. Stephanie and Alex were shocked that Jeremy made the website about her. Steve said he wasn’t going anywhere because Jada couldn’t arrest Jeremy yet. He said Jada could only question him. Steve said there was still threat until they could prove who was the stalker. He said Jeremy could have been framed. Jada showed up and told them they had to let Jeremy go because they didn’t have enough evidence. She noticed a box outside the door. Steve checked the box. The note said it was a gift from EJ. It was a picture frame. Someone was shown listening to their conversation and heard Alex say he was going to be bait.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, January 22, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

JJ went to see Theo at the hospital. They apologized to each other for what happened. JJ told Theo about his training and only using his gun as a last resort. Theo was happy about the news but wanted to make sure he was prepared for high-risk situations. Jeremy told Julie he was leaving town. Julie thought he was leaving town because of Stephanie’s engagement. Jeremy said he wanted to make up with her, but he respected her boundaries. Jada and Stephanie pretended to shop for the wedding to lure the stalker out. Stephanie started to regret writing the book. She was scared of playing the bait, but she wanted to end this for Alex and her father. Alex went to Philip’s office to talk about Brady’s firing. Philip saw Steve in the hall. Alex and Steve told him about the stalker. Philip wanted to know about the secret plan. Steve told Philip how they were trapping the stalker.  Later on, Alex and Steve went to the pub. They talked about who could be stalking Stephanie. Hope texted Steve with website full of pictures. Stephanie and Jada showed up. Steve told Jada about the website. Jada said she would take it from there. Later on, Steve let Stephanie and Alex know that Jada was bringing in a suspect. Jada went to the Horton house. She told Jeremy that she wanted him to go to the police station. Jada let him know that the evidence pointed to him.

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Days Update Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Julie and Foster prepare for the bereavement book club meeting. Julie talks about being anxious. Foster says there’s no need to be as it’s just a trial run with her close friends. Julie clarifies that it’s not just that but her family is in a custody dispute that has her on edge which Foster says is understandable. Foster asks if she wants to postpone but Julie thinks it will be a good distraction and says she just has to pray the mediation is going well.

Jack finishes a call at home with Justin and informs Jennifer that the mediator suggested they meet without lawyers. Chad arrives and says he heard the same from Melinda. Chad and Jennifer both say they think it’s a terrible idea.

Marlena walks through the town square and finds Cat seated at a table. Cat asks how she is. Marlena says she’s doing well. Cat says she’s really glad to hear that. Marlena asks if she’s here alone. Cat says she’s waiting for her sister Felicity. Cat adds that she would usually be at work but her schedule is more flexible with EJ out of town with Sydney. Cat asks how Sydney is. Marlena says by all reports, she’s doing well. Cat is glad to hear and asks if that means EJ will be coming home soon. Marlena responds that she hopes not.

Maggie joins Julie and Foster at the Book Club. Maggie admits she hadn’t finished the section they are going to be discussing today in the book but she got halfway through. Foster asks what she thought. Maggie says the author’s experience hit close to home as she’s also been widowed twice, so she could relate to that. Julie suggests waiting for the discussion until Marlena gets there and wonders what’s keeping her.

Cat tells Marlena that she knows everyone hates EJ but he’s been kind enough to her. Marlena warns that it’s only a matter of time before that kindness turns in to something else. Marlena reveals that’s why she has a proposition for her. Marlena informs Cat that she’s thinking of going back to work at the hospital, so she wondered if Cat wanted her old job back.

Jack remarks that Jennifer and Chad already agreed on something while Jennifer points out that Jack doesn’t agree since he thinks they should meet without lawyers. Jack says it’s worth a try and nothing is official in writing while all they are doing today is talking. Jack thinks they would be less constrained and more free to express themselves without lawyers. Jack adds that they all have the same goal here. Jennifer and Chad decide they are okay with it then.

Cat tells Marlena that she was so kind to hire her to begin with and she loved working with her. Marlena guesses she’s afraid that EJ would be upset. Cat confirms that EJ did a lovely favor in hiring her and he’s come to rely on her so she wouldn’t feel right about leaving him. Marlena admires her loyalty. Felicity joins them and greets them. Cat invites Marlena to join them for ice cream but Marlena says she promised a friend a favor.

Maggie is surprised Marlena is late. Julie mentions texting her but there was no reply. Foster says he’d like to wait for her, but they only have an hour so he suggests they get started.

At the mediation, Chad talks on the phone with Melinda and gets that she doesn’t want him to go to the meeting without her but no decisions will be made today. Chad hangs up as Jack and Jennifer enter the meeting room followed by the mediator, Agnes, who introduces herself to them. Agnes says the purpose of this is for them to reach an agreement that best serves the interests of Thomas and Charlotte. She says she is a neutral party to help them and hopefully guide them to a workable resolution. She recognizes it’s a sensitive matter and emotions can run high but says there is greater success if they remain civil and respectful. They decide they are ready to begin.

Jeremy sits at home with Thomas, going over his math work. Thomas complains that he can’t concentrate. Jeremy asks if he wants to talk about it. Thomas doesn’t know what to say as he just feels like everyone is mad at everyone else and it’s all his fault.

Agnes starts with Chad, asking how he proposes they resolve this custody dispute. Chad believes his kids should remain with him because he is their father and no one loves them more than he does. Chad says he rocked them to sleep as babies, changed their diapers, held them when they were sick, took them go games and recitals. Chad says he’s always been with them and they need him close right now because he’s the only parent they have left as his wife Abigail was murdered a few years ago. Chad asks how do you tell your kids they are never going to see their mother again and calls it the hardest thing he’s ever had to do. Chad adds that right after Abigail was killed, he was barely holding it together and one day, he snapped at Thomas and lost his temper with him. Chad says he confided in Jennifer how he messed up and how badly he felt and she said he would never forget it, noting that you just have to be there for your kids. Chad says he apologized to Thomas and they agreed they were just mad at the world for taking Abigail from them. Chad recalls not knowing what to do about it and Thomas saying they could make each other feel better. Chad talks about moving forward together and how his kids were thriving. Chad says he was very proud to see his kids happy. Agnes says it seems he’s come a long way. Chad admits it hasn’t always been perfect but they’ve come far and he’s been there every step of the way which Jennifer said was most important. Chad declares that he has to be with his kids. Agnes notes that Jack and Jennifer’s position has clearly changed and asks Chad to tell her why that is. Chad calls it a long and complicated story but explains that Cat Green impersonated Abigail and made them believe that she hadn’t really died, but they found out that Clyde Weston forced her to do it or he was going to kill Cat’s mother if she didn’t follow his orders. Agnes asks what happened when Chad found out Cat wasn’t really Abigail. Chad says they were all furious as what she did was cruel but Cat didn’t do it on her own and told him how sorry she was over and over again. Chad says he believed her and came to believe she deserved forgiveness just like the rest of them. Agnes asks him to elaborate. Chad brings up Jennifer’s addiction to painkillers which Jack argues is irrelevant and has nothing to do with this. Jack decides this was a bad idea and declares the meeting over.

Maggie talks about the book they read and relating to the character’s clashing with her second husband’s adult children. Marlena arrives and apologizes for being late. Julie says it’s okay and they are just delighted she’s there.

Felicity comments to Cat that Marlena seemed sad. Cat agrees and guesses Marlena is missing her husband. Felicity notes that Cat seems sad too. Cat asks why she would be sad. Felicity guesses she misses Chad.

Agnes asks Jack if what Chad said is untrue. Jennifer confirms it’s not. Jack remarks that they didn’t think he would stoop so low. Agnes feels Jennifer’s addiction is relevant to being fit for custody. Chad agrees it’s not and apologizes for saying anything. Chad states that Jennifer has been clean for years, so his kids are perfectly safe with her as they are with him. Agnes goes back to Cat and her part in this dispute. Agnes asks how Chad explained the impersonation to his children. Chad admits he didn’t and wasn’t going to but a friend at school told Thomas, so he told him that he and Cat were in a relationship. Chad knows it will sound strange but when Cat was pretending to be Abigail, she developed genuine feelings for him and he had feelings for her from thinking she was his wife and the feelings don’t just go away. Chad says he and Cat started spending time together, became friends and eventually more than friends. Jennifer points out that Chad kept that a secret and when Thomas asked if they were more than friends, he lied to Thomas. Jack says that’s until he couldn’t cover it up any longer and had to come to clean. Jennifer continues that Thomas was obviously upset that Chad would date his mother’s impostor. Chad assures that he broke it off the next day. Jennifer points out that Thomas was so upset that he asked to go live with her and Jack in Boston. Jennifer says they said no as Jack explains that they didn’t think Abigail would want her children taken away from their surviving parent as they thought Chad ended his relationship with Cat. Chad insists that he did. Jennifer talks about Chad giving his word that Cat would stay out of their lives and their relationship was over which turned out to be another lie. Chad asks to explain. Agnes asks why Jennifer says it was a lie. Jennifer explains that days later, she and Thomas saw Chad and Cat with their arms around each other in the town square and Thomas got so upset that he ran in to traffic and got hit by a car. Chad argues that Thomas misunderstood what he saw as Cat had just gotten bad news about her mother, so he was trying to comfort her but he realizes now that was a mistake. Jack asks how he can promise he won’t make another mistake. Chad argues that he can’t promise his kids will never get angry at him for something he did, but he can promise he loves his kids more than anything else in the world and he would do anything for them. Chad declares that he will always put them first. Agnes asks if Jack and Jennifer have a response. Jennifer responds that she doesn’t believe Chad.

Jeremy asks why Thomas thinks it’s his fault that everyone is mad at each other. Thomas goes over getting mad at Chad for being with Cat, which made Jack and Jennifer mad at Chad, and then Chad got angry at him for saying he wanted to go live with Jack and Jennifer. Jeremy asks if Thomas still wants to live with them but Thomas says not anymore. Jeremy guesses that when Chad went missing, Thomas got scared he might never see him again and that got him thinking if he really wanted to go to Boston or if he was just angry at Chad. Thomas confirms that is right but he told Jack and Jennifer that he did mean it and now they are trying to make it happen. Jeremy encourages that he still has time to tell them that he changed his mind. Thomas feels like even if he does, everyone will still be mad at each other.

Chad doesn’t know what else he can do to make Jennifer believe him. Agnes asks why Jennifer doesn’t believe that Chad will prioritize his children. Jennifer prefaces by telling Chad that we love him and know how much he loves their grandchildren and how much Abigail loved him. Jennifer says they wouldn’t consider taking Thomas and Charlotte away from him which Jack says was until the car accident. Jennifer recalls the doctor fixing Thomas’s dislocated shoulder and he wanted her there but not Chad and that’s when she changed her mind about wanting the children to live with them. Jennifer recalls telling Chad to be there for his kids and he wasn’t no matter how many promises because he was still with Cat and Thomas could’ve died. Jennifer says she told Chad that they don’t trust him so she was going to honor Thomas’s wishes and take them to Boston. Jennifer adds that if Chad tried to fight them, they would sue for custody and that’s exactly what they did.

Julie talks about how Doug would’ve loved the book they read and how they would read together. Julie recalls a discussion they had about music which Doug was passionate about and she misses those conversations. Julie gets emotional talking about Doug. Foster says his wife has been gone for 15 years and he still imagines conversations with her. Maggie relates to feeling Victor and Mickey responding to her. Foster asks if Marlena read the book. Marlena says she did but she has nothing to add and will just listen.

Cat reminds Felicity that she and Chad can’t be together because he wants to do what’s best for his kids, but admits she was thinking about Chad because she happened to find out he had a really important meeting today, so she’s really hoping it went well.

Agnes asks to hear from Jack. Jack reiterates that they never dreamed that they would need to take Thomas and Charlotte away from their father, but Chad has broken their trust again and again. Chad argues that hugging Cat was not romantic. Jennifer argues that he can’t seem to stay away from Cat which means he obviously still has feelings for her. Chad complains that they both just want him to be alone and not have feelings for anyone or be with anyone but Abigail. Jack says that’s not it all, pointing out that Cat wasn’t the first person he dated since Abigail. Jennifer says they would like nothing more for him to meet someone to spend the rest of his life with, someone kind and caring who Abigail would love to help raise their children but that person is not and will never be Cat Green.

Jeremy tells Thomas that he knows it’s hard feeling like everyone is mad at each other and will never make up. Jeremy brings up the mediation being today. Thomas says Chad tried to explain but it was confusing. Jeremy explains that they both disagree on where Thomas and Charlotte should live, so they sit down with someone to try and reach a compromise that works for everyone. Thomas asks if he thinks that’s possible. Jeremy says he really hopes so.

Julie jokes about Marlena always listening as a psychiatrist. Marlena wonders if maybe she shouldn’t be here and thinks she should go.

Cat knows Felicity wishes she and Chad could be together, but sometimes it’s just not possible. They then go to get ice cream.

Agnes pauses the mediation to take a breath. Agnes asks what made Jack and Jennifer agree to mediation after initially going to court. Jack explains that Justin suggested it and they didn’t think it was a good idea. Jennifer adds that Chad was then kidnapped and when they first heard, they worried that they needed to get Thomas and Charlotte as far away from Chad’s family as possible to keep them safe. Jack adds that their feelings changed because Thomas cried himself to sleep every night, afraid that he would never see his father again. Jennifer says miraculously and thankfully, Chad was rescued and they saw how relieved Thomas was to have his father back, so they realized they were going about the custody dilemma all wrong and they just need to find the solution to agree on. Jennifer promises they aren’t trying to punish Chad, but trying to think of every way possible to keep the kids safe. Chad says they have the exact same goal then. Chad reveals that he and Melinda have come up with a proposal which Jack questions.

Jeremy tells Thomas that in baseball, both teams want to win but Chad and Jack and Jennifer are trying to work together for what’s best. Thomas brings up that Chad still lied to him a lot, so he doesn’t know if he will ever trust him again. Jeremy says when someone breaks trust, it takes a long time to fix it, but he can’t fix it with Chad unless he gives him another chance. Thomas agrees to try.

Chad admits Jack and Jennifer are incredible grandparents and he knows his kids love spending time with them. Chad says he and Melinda thought they could go visit every summer for a month and that Jack and Jennifer can come visit anytime they want, but he retains full custody and he is not budging on that. Agnes asks if Jack and Jennifer have a plan as well. Jack responds that their plans changed as when they first brought up the lawsuit, Thomas was really upset and insisted that he did not want to stay with Chad, but after Chad was kidnapped, they realized how much Thomas loves Chad and wants to stay with him. Jennifer declares that their only sticking point in all of this is Chad’s involvement with Cat Green. Jack states that if Chad would promise to never have a relationship with Cat ever again, they would drop the suit for custody. Agnes asks if Chad agrees with that. Chad says he does and gives his word. Jack adds that they would like to have two months with the kids. Jennifer suggests revisiting the custody issue if Thomas changes his mind and didn’t want to live with Chad but Chad says no and calls that completely unreasonable. Jennifer asks why it’s unreasonable to listen to Thomas. Chad argues that Thomas is still a kid and he’s not going to allow him to hold this over his head anytime he enforces a rule he doesn’t like. Chad says Thomas also should not control where Charlotte lives. Jennifer agrees that he’s right. Agnes asks if they have an agreement. Jack, Jennifer, and Chad say that they do as they join hands.

Maggie asks Marlena not to go while Julie says she didn’t mean to upset her. Marlena says she knows that but it was difficult for her to come and she just thought she should, so she forced herself to come but now she sees she’s not ready for it. Marlena then exits. Julie worries about what she has done. Maggie insists it’s not her fault, it’s just too soon for Marlena. Foster states that Marlena just wasn’t ready to be there, but she read the book and she listened, so she will be back.

Jennifer and Jack go home. Jennifer thanks Jeremy for watching Thomas. Jeremy says it was his pleasure as he exits the room. Thomas asks how it went. Jack didn’t think they would beat Chad home, so they will wait until he gets home to talk about it. Thomas pleads with them to tell him now. Jack says the mediation went well and Jennifer says she really thinks they can to an agreement. Jennifer informs Thomas that Chad will keep custody of he and Charlotte, but they will get to visit every summer for two months and that Chad promised to never start a relationship with Cat Green ever again. Jack asks what Thomas thinks.

Chad goes to Book Club to see Julie, which she calls a nice surprise. Chad tells her that mediation went well and he’s cautiously optimistic that they reached an agreement they can all be happy about it. Julie calls that great news as she hugs Chad.

Jennifer asks what Thomas thinks about the agreement. Thomas responds that it’s not good enough. Jack asks what he means. Thomas argues that Chad lied about Cat before and asks how to know he won’t do it again.

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Days Update Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Sarah sees Marlena at the hospital and tells her how good it felt to give her a clean bill of health. Marlena calls it a great relief to feel like herself again because there were times she felt that was never going to happen. Marlena tells Sarah that life is so different now without John, so she sometimes feels disoriented, like she doesn’t feel like herself sometimes. Sarah can’t imagine how much she must be missing John. Marlena can’t believe he’s not going to come walking through the door after one of his missions and she’s never going to see his face or hear his voice. Marlena cries that she dreams about John all the time and guesses the best way to honor him is to live the best life she can and take good care of their family.

Brady goes to see Kristen at the DiMera Mansion. Kristen talks about never knowing how much you miss life’s pleasures until being deprived of them. Kristen adds that she would go back to prison if she had to for Rachel. Brady responds that Rachel is why he’s here because she needs to know something before they go see her. Brady then informs Kristen that Rachel got in to some trouble last night.

Gwen goes to Book Club and greets Julie. Julie responds that they reserve the right to refuse service to anyone. Gwen argues that they can surely get over a misunderstanding over her necklace. Gwen remarks that it looks like Julie can use all the business she can get. Gwen is buying the book “The Art of Getting Away With It” which Julie jokes that Gwen wrote. Gwen tries to purchase the book but her card is declined.

Dimitri sits at the Brady Pub and gets an alert on his phone about Gwen’s card being declined which makes him laugh.

In the town square, Javi says Leo wanted to talk so they have to make it quick as he has a plane to catch and he’s terrible at goodbyes. Leo responds that he has no intention of saying goodbye. Javi says he has to go because his dad needs him. Leo says he loves him for being a caring and devoted son. Javi tells Leo to stop being selfish and let him go.

Brady explains to Kristen that Rachel was found in Sophia’s bed, covering for her during bed checks because Sophia apparently snuck out. Kristen questions why Rachel would do this. Brady says he doesn’t know but he also thinks Rachel stole money from his wallet. Kristen asks if Sophia put her up to it. Brady says that’s what he’s thinking. Brady says he confronted Rachel and she denied it, then Sophia just showed up but was still not speaking. Brady adds that Sophia is apparently writing notes to Rachel and claimed to have snuck out to go to the library but he didn’t believe it. Brady says he didn’t tell Dr. Gregory about the money because he didn’t want to get Rachel in more trouble, especially when he wasn’t sure. Kristen feels that they have to do something. Brady says the staff have taken steps to separate Rachel and Sophia. Kristen suggests taking a step by getting Rachel out of Bayview now.

Gwen tries another card but it’s declined too. Gwen says that makes no sense. Julie asks if she’s having financial difficulties. Gwen insists she’s fine and tells Julie to just keep the book as she storms out. Foster comes over and asks Julie what that was all about. Julie calls it karma.

Leo asks Javi not to lash out at him. Javi apologizes and reminds him that he’s not good at goodbyes. Leo tells Javi that he’s not saying goodbye without knowing that Javi is coming back when his father is doing better. Leo declares that his life will be on hold until then. Javi questions if it will. Leo assures that it will and asks why he would even ask him that. Javi then informs Leo that he ran in to Dimitri yesterday. Leo guesses that Dimitri told Javi that he kissed him. Javi adds that he said they both felt something and if Leo respects him, he will show him the courtesy of not lying. Javi asks if what Dimitri said is true. Gwen then walks by and stops when she sees them. Leo then admits to Javi that it’s true.

Marlena tells Sarah that she owes her recovery to her because she never gave up on finding the right diagnosis. Sarah says she was just doing her job and praises Marlena being patient through it all. Sarah tells Marlena that they all loved seeing her back at the hospital for Christmas and the story reading as they’ve missed her a lot. Sarah adds they all hope she reconsiders coming back to her practice and asks if there’s any chance of that.

Julie tells Foster that she really enjoyed seeing Gwen’s credit card get refused and asks if that’s wrong. Foster calls it human. Julie says usually she doesn’t want to see anyone’s feelings hurt but Gwen came back to Salem, flaunting her wealth. Julie asks Foster if he’d like to sit down and relax for a few minutes. Foster says he will if Julie does the same. Julie says she’d be glad to. They sit together as Julie asks Foster what it’s like working part time at a business he used to own. Foster says he loves it, joking that he gets all the perks and good books while leaving all the stressful parts to her. Julie admits she’s enjoying the challenge but she’s very glad he is back with her. Julie mentions having a trial run of the bereavement book club with Marlena and Maggie. Julie asks him for some advice. Foster advises her to not do it.

Gwen walks away as Leo sits with Javi and tells him that he loves him and wants to spend his life with him. Leo admits there are some unresolved things with Dimitri. Javi says that’s just it. Javi declares that Leo may want to be with him, but he doesn’t want to be with Leo if he’s not 100% committed to them. Leo argues that he didn’t say he wasn’t committed. Javi reminds Leo to be honest. Leo then admits that Javi’s right that he’s a fickle, unsubstantial person because if he was 100% committed to Jav, he wouldn’t have kissed another man. Leo says he hates himself for it and has been beating himself up since it happened, but he can’t change the fact that it did happen. Leo decides it’s time to stop deluding himself and declares that he doesn’t deserve to be with Javi.

Brady tells Kristen that taking Rachel out of Bayview was his first instinct too but Marlena pointed out that Bayview is close, so putting her somewhere else would mean they wouldn’t see her as much. Kristen clarifies that she wants to bring Rachel home. Brady brings up Rachel shooting EJ and poisoning Sarah which are big issues. Brady says they’ve tried to deal with her issues and it’s done nothing. Kristen questions if the solution is to lock her away and have her corrupted by Sophia. Kristen argues that Rachel doesn’t need more doctors, she needs her mother while Brady argues that she needs structure and boundaries. Brady mentions talking with Dr. Gregory and declares their priority is making sure Rachel understands that there is no universe where they get back together.

Gwen goes to the Pub and confronts Dimitri over her credit cards declining. Dimitri confirms he got an alert on his phone about it. Gwen calls him a sadistic son of a bitch and says she despises him. Dimitri responds that he’s thrilled that he’s getting his life back while her revenge plot is blowing up in her face.

Julie questions Foster thinking a bereavement book club is a bad idea. Foster apologizes for overstepping but Julie wants his opinion. Foster explains that it’s based on his own experience. Foster thinks the book clubs are a great idea and would be a big success, but he tried bereavement when his wife died and he was a mess. He doesn’t want Julie to go through that but says maybe she’s in a better position and can handle it. Julie admits she hadn’t given it much thought until now.

Marlena tells Sarah that the hospital has been a second home to her for as long as she can remember. Sarah encourages that everybody would love to have her back there. Marlena says a couple weeks ago, she would’ve said no as she felt responsible for everything with Rachel and like she let her down, so it made her doubt herself. Marlena points out that now, she and Brady are in a good place while Rachel is getting the help she needs. Marlena says she likes helping people which is what she’s trained for.

Kristen questions Brady about Dr. Gregory’s advice being about their relationship. Brady explains that they need a unified message and Rachel needs to hear from them that they are over. Kristen argues that she has heard that from both of them and she made it very clear. Kristen tells Brady to stop trying to pin Rachel’s problems on her. Brady argues that he’s just trying to move forward and declares that Rachel needs to understand that her idea of them being a happy family is not going to happen. Brady says he needs her to stand with him on this.

Gwen eats Dimitri’s fries and calls him a lying, cheating bastard with no friends. He says she has no friends either which Gwen blames him for. Gwen declares that she will never forgive him for how he betrayed her. Gwen adds that more than anything, she despises him for destroying her friendship with Leo as it was the most important friendship she ever had.

Leo calls Javi the best thing to ever happen to him. Leo says he would do anything to make his feelings for Dimitri go away and he’s working on it. Leo states that Javi is the only man he’s ever truly loved, but he can’t just suddenly feel nothing for a man he once cared about. Javi takes that as Leo admitting he’s not over Dimitri. Leo argues that when he got the letter from Dimitri, his life was turned upside down only to find out that Dimitri only wrote the letter so he wouldn’t be hurt and everything he thought was true wasn’t, so he’s sorry. Javi thanks him for his honesty. Leo asks Javi to just give him time to process it. Javi argues that time won’t change anything for him. Javi declares that before he leaves, he will follow through with Marlena to not file their marriage certificate.

Marlena tells Sarah that if she does come back to her practice, it wouldn’t be full time as she has other thing she wants to do like travel and reading. Marlena mentions signing up for Julie’s book clubs. Sarah thinks that’s great. Marlena admits she does miss seeing her patients. Sarah is grateful that Marlena continued to see Xander during her hiatus and says she’s so sorry that he fired Brady after everything she did for him. Sarah adds that it’s pretty clear that it was done to get back at her which Marlena guesses is because of her relationship with Brady.

Julie tells Foster that since losing Doug, she never knows when a wave of grief will come over her and now she’s scheduled to host this meeting. Julie admits maybe she should call it off but Foster says he wasn’t suggesting that, but getting someone else to lead it. Julie asks who in this hour. Foster reveals that he would be honored to do it. Foster admits he’ll never get over the loss of his wife, but it’s not so raw anymore, so he agrees to a trial run. Julie thanks him and accepts his offer.

Kristen questions how Brady can ask her to stand by him in this, arguing that she already has. Kristen insists that she’s no longer deluding herself about a possible future with him because that ship sailed a long time ago. Kristen expects them to work together to help Rachel have a really great future. Kristen laughs off the idea of clinging to a dream of being with a man who treated her for disdain for years. Brady is glad she’s seeing they were toxic as a couple and now needs her to convince Rachel of that. Kristen asks if that’s because he thinks it will help Rachel heal or he thinks it will give him permission to be with Sarah.

Dimitri argues that Leo didn’t care enough about Gwen to not sleep with her husband. Gwen blames Dimitri for seducing Leo while Dimitri says he can’t help that they were so attracted to each other that it just happened again and again. Gwen calls him a wretched human being and questions how she ever fell in love with him. Dimitri mocks her venting about something that happened so long ago and says it doesn’t matter anymore. He begs her to let him eat in peace. Gwen tells him that he will have no peace nor will he have his happily ever after. Dimitri decides he will leave then. Gwen asks if he doesn’t want to know where Leo is now. Dimitri asks how she would know. Gwen reveals that she just Leo in the town square with the love his life, Javi Hernandez. Gwen then claims they were locked in a passionate kiss.

Leo questions Javi wanting to pretend their wedding never happened all because of a kiss. Javi argues that Leo should’ve told him instead of having to hear it from Dimitri. Leo agrees and apologizes. Javi cries that more than anything, he wanted to be Leo’s husband and start the life they dreamed of together, but that dream died. Javi then offers Leo the ring back.

Sarah asks Marlena if Xander talked to her about this at all but then apologizes, saying she knows she can’t ask her about that. Marlena says Xander didn’t have to as she was here and saw how she and Brady looked at each other at Christmas. Sarah didn’t realize it was that obvious. Sarah says it’s new and she doesn’t even know what it is. Marlena clarifies that she’s not judging. Sarah knows she must be concerned about Rachel. Marlena says she’s concerned about Brady too since it’s been a very tough year for him from losing his father, all the trauma with Rachel, and losing his job, so she doesn’t know if he can take any more heartbreak. Sarah says that makes two of them.

Brady tells Kristen that this isn’t about Sarah. Kristen argues that Rachel made sure she knew that she saw Brady and Sarah hugging and thought she would flip out, but she stayed perfectly calm, said nice things about Sarah and moved on. Kristen says he can ask Rachel if he doesn’t believe her. Kristen adds that she doesn’t care what he and Sarah do, but calls it pretty damn selfish to pick now to move on with another woman.

Gwen says she can see Dimitri is worried now and tells him to embrace his insecure nature. Dimitri responds that he doesn’t believe her. Gwen says he can see for himself while Dimitri feels she would say anything to hurt him. Gwen responds that he hasn’t even begun to hurt yet. Gwen remarks that Leo and Javi could have heated up to the bedroom already by now.

Leo tells Javi that he’s not taking his ring or taking his off. Javi says he will respect his decision and hopes Leo respects his. Leo then reluctantly takes the ring because he loves and respects him. Leo says he cannot wait for the day he puts the ring back on his finger.

Julie asks Foster if he’s sure about hosting the bereavement meeting. Foster assures that he’s a man of his word and only hopes he can do a good job. Julie encourages that he will be great. Foster knows he can be controlling and tells her to let him know if he’s ever too hands on.

Sarah promises that she and Brady are being cautious for their sake and for Rachel as they would never want to set back her recovery. Marlena is glad to hear that but admits she’s also concerned that Rachel will need stability and a place to call home which is why she’s glad Brady is looking for his own place because she doesn’t believe Rachel would find any stability living with Brady at the Kiriakis Mansion.

Brady tells Kristen that he and Sarah haven’t labeled anything yet. Brady says there’s no reason to introduce the relationship to Rachel yet when they don’t even know what it is yet. Kristen argues that he’s going to hide it from her while Brady feels if it does become something, it would be a great opportunity to show Rachel boundaries and that she can’t control or manipulate his life. Brady argues that he’s trying to handle this and figure it out. Kristen asks if Dr. Gregory prescribed how long it would take for Brady to get Sarah in to bed. Brady says he wanted to have a rational conversation while Kristen accuses him of flaunting his new girlfriend in her face. Brady says he’ll see her at Bayview and walks out while Kristen throws a glass against the wall in frustration.

Gwen offers to walk Dimitri out there to Leo and Javi so he can see what real love looks like. Dimitri remarks that it’s not like she has any idea. Gwen calls Dimitri an arrogant swine who wouldn’t have a cent if it wasn’t for him using and abusing her. Gwen vows that she will have her revenge one way or another. Gwen then dumps a drink on Dimitri’s head and his plate of fries onto his lap as she then walks out of the Pub.

Leo promises Javi that one day soon, he will get back on one knee and ask Javi to marry him again. Javi says he will hold him to that promise, but he has to go now to catch his flight. Leo tells Javi to take good care of his dad and to let him know how he’s doing when he gets a minute. Javi agrees to have Rafe give him updates. Javi tearfully says goodbye to Leo and to take care of Trey for him. Leo tells Javi that he loves him. Javi says he loves him too as they hug. Javi then exits the town square as Leo holds back tears.

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Days Update Monday, January 19, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Arianna gets up at home and joins Gabi in the kitchen. Gabi questions her looking pale with bloodshot eyes and guesses she is hungover. Arianna admits she may be a little. Gabi questions where she was last night that allowed underage drinking. Arianna says it was just a party that some kids at school threw and assures she did not drive home. Arianna remarks with the way she feels now, she doesn’t want to drink ever again, but assures she’s fine. Gabi says she doesn’t have to snap at her. Rafe comes home and asks if he should be worried. Rafe then gets a call from Johnny. Rafe thanks him for the video of EJ and Gwen. Johnny asks what he thinks the delivery was. Rafe says he’s still working on that and will let him know. Johnny then announces he’s calling to invite Rafe and his family to something very important.

Holly goes to Bayview and tells Dr. Gregory that she hopes she can help with Sophia’s recovery like she said. Dr. Gregory says that Sophia is finishing therapy and she still isn’t talking, but is communicating through writing notes. Holly mentions hearing from Tate that she’s been communicating with Rachel. Dr. Gregory says she will let Sophia know she’s there. Sophia then comes in to the room seeming shocked to see Holly.

Johnny thanks Rafe and says he’ll see him soon as they hang up. Chanel asks Johnny if the Hernandez family will be able to make it. Johnny says that Rafe definitely is and he will let Arianna and Gabi know. Chanel and Johnny watch over Trey, saying he will be surrounded by people who love him today. Chanel asks if Johnny got his calendar cleared at DiMera. Johnny says there’s some advantages of being CEO. Chanel is glad they got this in before Javi left for Texas. Johnny says he was thinking it will probably be hard for Javi and Leo. Chanel says that’s if Leo shows up after everything that happened at the wedding. Johnny says despite everything, they were Trey’s parents first and now are his Godparents, so he hopes they will still come to his Christening. Chanel hopes they will remain in Trey’s life forever.

Javi shows up at Leo’s door at the Salem Inn.

Dr. Gregory tells Sophia that she was just about to let her know that Holly was there. Holly greets her and says it’s really good to see her. Dr. Gregory explains that she asked Holly to come as she believes there are things left unsaid between them that need to be said in order to move forward.

Paulina arrives at Johnny and Chanel’s. Paulina brings Chanel’s old Christening gown that she kept all these years. Chanel thanks Paulina for getting the priest on short notice and for everything. Johnny calls it a miracle that they pulled this together so fast. Chanel comments that their family has been blessed with all kinds of miracles lately.

Gabi assures Rafe that they will be at the Christening. Arianna points out that she and Holly have to be at the dorm and it’s too late to change as they didn’t get a lot of notice before the Christening. Rafe explains that they wanted to do it before Javi leaves town. Arianna questions Javi leaving and hopes it’s to get away from Leo.

Leo invites Javi in. Javi says he can’t stay long but he has good news to share. Javi informs Leo that Johnny and Chanel have moved Trey’s Christening to this afternoon and they want them both to be there. Leo assures he will be there but he’s confused that it’s today and he’s only just hearing about it now. Javi explains that it was very last minute because they wanted to do it before he leaves town. Leo is shocked and tells Javi that he can’t leave. Javi informs Leo that he has to because his dad is having heart surgery, so he’s going to Texas to be there for him. Leo feels Javi shouldn’t have to go through that alone. Javi points out that he will have family there. Leo argues that he is Javi’s family and they’ve been through so much together, falling love, taking care of Trey, and opening up about their pasts. Leo adds that they just had a wedding, said vows to each other, and were declared husband and husband as he shouts that he is Javi’s family.

Rafe tells Arianna that Javi isn’t leaving because of Leo but because his father needs heart surgery. Gabi says that’s why it’s so last minute. Arianna understands that Javi has to be there, but assumes Leo will also be there which is why she’s okay missing it. Arianna complains that she doesn’t want to be in the same room as them after Leo just broke Javi’s heart. Arianna tells them to tell Johnny and Chanel that she’s sorry and promises to come visit Trey soon. Rafe and Gabi insist that Arianna should be there. Gabi adds that she can ignore Leo the whole time. Arianna calls Leo impossible to ignore and repeats that she just doesn’t want to go. Arianna promises to buy Trey a gift and visit him tomorrow. Arianna adds that she needs to go clothes shopping anyway. Gabi brings up that she just bought her clothes for Christmas. Arianna explains that Holly wants them to rush a sorority which Gabi says might be fun. Arianna is unsure and admits she told Holly no at first but they do nice stuff like charity work too so she agreed to give it a shot. Gabi decides she will pull some things from her new line at Gabi Chic and she can pick what she likes. Arianna thanks her as they hug.

Paulina comments on Johnny volunteering for the diaper change. Chanel points out that Johnny does that and other things all the time, calling him a really hands-on dad. Paulina takes that to mean things are better between them. Chanel confirms they are and says they really talked for the first time since she got pregnant and she told him that she needs him to be positive and optimistic about the baby which he promised to do. Paulina says she’s so relieved. Chanel talks about feeling thrilled and happily declares that it’s going to be a wonderful day as they hug.

Holly tells Sophia that Tate told her she’s been writing notes to Rachel. Dr. Gregory thought it would be helpful to have Holly here because expressing her feelings towards her might help her recovery. She asks if Holly has anything to say to Sophia. Holly talks about hoping her presence to motivate Sophia to talk. Holly assumes Sophia is upset with her and wants to tell her why she’s angry. Dr. Gregory encourages Sophia to write down how she feels and not keep her feelings locked inside so that healing can begin. She urges Sophia to let Holly know what she’s feeling. Sophia responds by trying to slap Holly but Dr. Gregory blocks her and says that’s not what she meant by expressing her feelings. Holly says she is shocked that Sophia tried to hit her. Dr. Gregory says she wouldn’t have suggested this meeting if she thought that would happen. Holly wishes she hadn’t but decides she wants to say what’s on her mind. Holly tells Sophia that she only came because Dr. Gregory thought it might help her recovery and even after all the crap she pulled, she still felt bad for her. Holly acknowledges that seeing Tate behind her back hurt her. Holly yells at her to wake up because that was two years ago and Sophia’s done a lot worse since including lying to everyone about being pregnant with Tate’s baby and sexting her photos to Johnny. Holly complains that Sophia tried to ruin her life and calls her a selfish, narcissistic bitch. Holly declares that after Sophia tried to attack her, she’s done feeling sorry for her and storms out. Dr. Gregory tells Sophia that she’s sorry she was triggered like that as seeing Holly obviously did not help and she apologizes. She asks if Sophia has anything she would like to communicate to her now. Sophia responds by writing down “I HATE HER!!!”

Rafe admits he’s pretty skeptical about the whole sorority thing as he’s heard they make them do wild things at rush. Arianna assures that she can handle it and she won’t do anything crazy. Rafe gets a text from Eli which Gabi questions. Rafe then reveals they are planning a trip to Alamainia. Gabi notes that he didn’t tell her that. Rafe says they just decided so they can question Vivian about the DiMera crypt kidnappings and make sure Stefan is really dead. Arianna asks if they think Vivian was involved in the kidnappings. Rafe says they aren’t sure but they are pretty sure that Peter Blake didn’t act alone and Vivian is always a suspect. Gabi thanks him for doing this. Rafe knows she needs some closure. Gabi admits that seeing the picture of Stefan’s headstone hit her pretty hard. Gabi knows Vivian has nothing to gain by lying, but she just needs to know for sure.

Johnny, Chanel, and Paulina talk about getting Trey in to his Christening outfit. Chanel says they have to take a lot of pictures for everyone that can’t be there. Johnny notes that he spoke to Chad and he can’t make it because of his custody hearing. Johnny adds that he promised his mom and sisters that he would send lots of videos. Paulina asks if Marlena is coming. Johnny says that she unfortunately won’t since before she knew about the Christening, she had taken a day trip to Chicago with Belle. Johnny notes that they are on their way home and will be there soon but they won’t make it time. Paulina suggests a post-christening party that everyone can come to. Chanel decides they will get Trey dressed and head over to the chapel.

Javi tells Leo that he doesn’t know if they can be a family anymore. Leo asks how he can say that. Javi argues that they both know things have changed between them and they have to accept that but Leo refuses. Javi cries that he’s trying to because he knows. Javi says he’ll just have Johnny and Chanel give him the details of the Christening but he should go. Leo stops him and asks when he’s coming back from Texas. Javi responds that he might not.

Rafe and Gabi join Javi at the chapel for Trey’s Christening. Leo comes in after and greets them, noting that he’s really happy to be there for the Christening of their grandson. Chanel and Johnny then arrive with Trey. Chanel says they are so glad they were all able to make it on short notice. Rafe says they are so glad to be there to celebrate Trey and congratulates them. Gabi suggests a picture with the family. Leo fits in to the back as Javi takes the picture.

Holly is visibly upset as she meets Arianna in the town square and tells her that she just came from seeing Sophia at Bayview. Arianna questions why she would do that. Holly explains that her doctor thought it might help with her recovery and motivate her to talk, but it didn’t. Holly remarks that she doesn’t care if that bitch ever opens her mouth again.

Dr. Gregory tells Sophia that she supposes that’s progress, pointing out that Sophia has had no desire to interact with her in therapy, so she’s glad to see she can communicate with someone other than Rachel. She encourages that expressing herself is good and in order for her to heal, she has to explore her negative emotions towards Holly. She adds that she’s sure Sophia knows using Rachel was wrong, so the doctors have decided they need a break from each other but she wants Sophia to have someone she can feel comfortable with. She asks Sophia if there’s any other patient that she would like to get to know or communicate with.

The priest begins Trey’s Christening ceremony. Javi and Leo are called upon as the Godparents.

Holly tells Arianna about Sophia trying to slap her but Dr. Gregory grabbed her hand before she could. Holly says the look in Sophia’s eyes was like pure hatred, but she still didn’t speak a word. Holly admits she’s kind of scared of what Sophia might do to her if she’s ever released. Arianna then reveals that last night on her way to the bar, she could’ve sworn that she saw Sophia.

Dr. Gregory tells Sophia that she can write her a note about anything she wants to say or anyone she wants to see, but she is pleased that Sophia wants to continue her studies and pursuing her dreams. She tells Sophia that she has full access to the library but cannot sneak out. She adds that the sooner Sophia cooperates with her and the staff, the sooner she can be released.

The priest officially baptizes Trey and welcomes him in to their community as everyone applauds. Javi sits with Trey and says he’s so honored to be his Godfather. Javi thanks him for letting him be part of his family and promises to always take his responsibility very seriously. Javi declares that they are connected forever and he will always love Trey. Chanel hugs Javi and thanks him. Javi thanks her for squeezing in the ceremony before he left. Chanel assures that they wouldn’t have done it without him and that they will be praying for his father. Javi wishes them luck and says Trey is lucky to have parents like them. Rafe and Gabi call him a good man. Javi cries that he’s going to miss them. Rafe offers a ride to the airport but Javi says he hates airport goodbyes. Javi hugs Rafe and Gabi as they have a tearful goodbye. Leo asks Javi if they can talk in private before he leaves. Javi says he doesn’t have a lot of time but agrees as they step out together. Gabi and Rafe then exit together. Chanel and Johnny joke about getting enough pictures and video. Chanel calls the day perfect. They hope Trey sleeps through the night while Chanel mentions being tired so Johnny decides they should get home and they exit the chapel.

Holly tells Arianna that there’s no way she could’ve seen Sophia since she’s locked up in Bayview, unless she managed to escape for a night but argues there’s no way that would be possible. Arianna guesses she’s right and it’s crazy to think Sophia would just be wandering around Salem. Arianna says it must’ve just been someone who looked like her and that it freaked her out a bit.

Sophia retrieves her new cell phone from under her bed and texts Melinda Trask that she needs to see her.

Holly asks Arianna if anything else happened that she wants to share. Arianna says she just had too many drinks, hung out, flirted with the bartender, and then went home alone. Javi and Leo walk in to the town square so Javi asks him to give him a second as he greets Holly and Arianna. Holly exits while Javi hugs Arianna. Arianna asks about the Christening. Javi calls it bittersweet and moving. Arianna asks if he’s really leaving. Javi confirms that he is in a couple hours. Arianna says she’s really going to miss him. Javi says he wil miss her too as they hug. Arianna hopes he comes back soon but knows he can’t think about that right now. They hug as Javi tells her to be good and Arianna says she loves him. Javi says he loves her too as she walks away. Leo then rejoins Javi. Javi says Leo wanted to talk so they have to make it quick as he has a plane to catch and he’s terrible at goodbyes. Leo responds that he has no intention of saying goodbye.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, January 21, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Julie, Marlena and Maggie were getting ready for the book club meeting. They talked about how much Doug loved books, and Julie missed talking to him about things. Everyone talked about what they missed about their loved ones except for Marlena. Julie noticed that the therapist was doing the listening. Marlena wanted to leave. Jack, Jennifer, and Chad  were told to that the mediator wanted to meet without the lawyers. Jack liked the idea, but the others didn’t. He convinced them that it was a good idea. The mediator arrived, and Chad said the kids should stay with him because he’s their father. He made a speech about how much the kids meant to him. Jennifer started to cry when Chad talked about Abby. Chad began talking about his relationship with Cat and how Jack and Jennifer turned on him because of it. He mentioned Jennifer’s addiction to painkillers. Jack got upset when Chad mentioned her addiction. He didn’t think he would stoop that low. Chad apologized for what he said. He talked about Cat again. Jack told him that he didn’t want him to make another mistake like the last one that caused Thomas to run into the road. Chad said that he couldn’t promise that he wouldn’t make another mistake. Jennifer told Chad that they loved him but what happened to Thomas changed everything. Chad gave Jack and Jennifer the proposal that he and Melinda drew up. The proposal allowed them to have the kids for a month every summer. They could visit any time they liked, but he refused to give up custody. Jack and Jennifer had a compromise for him. They would drop the custody suit if he promised not to be involved with Cat again. Marlena wasn’t ready for the book club meeting so she left. Foster promised that she would be back. Chad went to tell Julie about the hearing. He believed it went well. Chad told her that they reached an agreement. Jack and Jennifer talked to Thomas about the custody agreement. They let him know that he could visit every summer as long as Chad stayed away from Cat. Thomas didn’t believe his father was telling the truth about that. He lied before and would do it again.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, January 20, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Sarah let Marlena know she was better. Marlena said she wasn’t feeling like herself. Sarah was concerned but hoped that Marlena would consider coming back to the hospital. Marlena said she might consider it but not full time. Sarah told Marlena that she was glad that she was seeing Xander even if he was being a jerk to her and Brady. Marlena said she knew about her and Brady. She told Sarah that she was worried about Brady. Brady went to see Kristen and told her about what Rachel was doing. Kristen said she wanted to bring Rachel home. Brady said Rachel needed help. He told her that Rachel’s doctor said they should convince Rachel that they weren’t getting back together. Kristen felt like he was blaming her for everything. She said she wasn’t deluding herself or Rachel. They agreed they weren’t right for each other. Kristen told him she knew about Sarah. She said he was being selfish moving on with Sarah.

Leo tried to talk to Javi who pushed him away. Javi said Leo wasn’t committed enough to their relationship. He confronted Leo about kissing Dimitri. When Javi kept ripping into Leo, Leo agreed with him about being a terrible person. Javi wanted Leo to go away. He told Leo he was leaving after he told Marlena not to file the marriage certificate. Javi told Leo that he wanted to be married to him. Leo said he could make it real and handed him his ring. Gwen met up with Dimitri who rubbed it in that she didn’t have any money. They ended up arguing. Gwen said she hated that he ruined her friendship with Leo. She let him know that he wasn’t going to take her peace or her happily ever after. While she was talking, she told him that she saw Leo and Javi kissing. Sarah told Marlena that she and Brady were being cautious. Marlena said she was worried about Brady living at the mansion. Brady said he and Sarah were in the early stages of their relationship. Kristen was upset with him for rubbing his girlfriend in her face. Before Gwen left, she told Dimitri that she was getting revenge. Leo told Javi that he was going to propose again. They declared their love for each other before Javi left.

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Days Short Recap Monday, January 19, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Rafe got a text from Eli about his trip to Alamania. Eli went to confirm whether Stefan was dead. Gabi thought it would give her closure and thanked Rafe for reaching out to him. Holly arrived at Bayview because Dr. Gregory wanted her to help with Sophia’s progress. Sophia arrived and became annoyed when she saw Holly. Holly said that her being there could help Sophia speak again. Dr. Gregory wanted Sophia to let her feelings out so she could heal. Sophia tried to slap Holly, but Dr. Gregory stopped her. Holly and Dr. Gregory were shocked by her behavior. She decided to say what was on her mind. Holly told Sophia that she knew she hurt her when she dated Tate, but she thought that it was time to get over it. According to Holly, Sophia did a lot worse than she did. She was done feeling sorry for Sophia. Holly called Sophia a narcissistic b*tch and left the room. Sophia didn’t seem bothered by what Holly said. Dr. Gregory apologized for triggering her. Sophia wrote down that she hated Holly.

Johnny and Chanel prepared for Trey’s christening. They were glad that they could do it before Javi left. Johnny and Chanel wondered if Leo would show up. Leo was sulking when Javi showed up at the door. Javi told him about the christening. Leo said he would be there, but he wondered why the change of plans. Javi told him that he was leaving town, but Leo didn’t want to accept that was happening. He told him that he had to leave because his father was having bypass surgery. Leo understood once he explained it. He wanted to be there for him. Javi didn’t think it was a good idea after what happened with Dimitri. Leo didn’t want to accept that. Javi started crying and wanted to accept what happened. Leo wanted to know when he would be back, but Javi didn’t think he would be back. Holly met with Arianna and talked to her about her encounter with Sophia. She told Arianna that she was afraid of what Sophia would do if she were ever released. Arianna said that she saw Sophia walking around the night before. Dr. Gregory told Sophia that she made progress by admitting that she hated her. She had to heal by accepting everything that happened. Dr. Gregory told her that using Rachel was wrong, and they needed a break from each other. Sophia clenched her fists while Dr. Gregory talked to her about Rachel. Dr. Gregory asked her if there were any other patients that she wanted to get to know. Holly didn’t think Arianna could have seen Sophia unless she escaped Bayview. She didn’t want to believe that Sophia could have escaped the hospital. Sophia went to her room and found her phone. She texted Melinda letting her know that she needed her.

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Days Update Friday, January 16, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Cat and Mark have breakfast at the Brady Pub. They talk about it being rare for them which Cat blames on Mark always working long hours. Cat points out that EJ is out of town so maybe Mark can take a break and they can take the day off together. Mark doesn’t think he’ll have any time off for the next few weeks and mentions that they are close to a breakthrough in their research.

At the hospital, Johnny talks to Rafe about being glad Theo is on the mend but knowing he has a long recovery ahead. Rafe hopes it won’t be too long since he knows Johnny wasn’t planning on staying on as DiMera CEO indefinitely. Johnny confirms he wasn’t and he’s sure Rafe isn’t thrilled that he is. Rafe says he will support him no matter what. Johnny insists that EJ is not apart of the family business and that he wouldn’t be apart of it if he was. Johnny remarks that he wouldn’t be surprised if Rafe and the FBI were looking into EJ. When Rafe doesn’t respond, Johnny takes that as a confirmation that they are.

Leo goes to the DiMera Mansion while drunk. Gwen answers the door and tells him that Dimitri isn’t there, so he can go on his way. Leo responds that he actually came to see her, but first he needs a drink.

Chanel vists Theo in the hospital and shows him pictures of Trey. Paulina comes in to bring Theo coffee and says she didn’t know Chanel was stopping by. Paulina mentions that Abe is getting breakfast from the Bakery, so she will text him to bring her something too. Theo asks if everything is okay, but Chanel feels sick and rushes out of the room.

Javi is going through the mail at home when Gabi comes in and takes Leo’s mail from him and says he doesn’t need to see that. Javi points out that somebody has to take Leo’s mail to him at the Salem Inn. Gabi responds that someone doesn’t have to be him. Javi thanks her for looking out for him. Gabi says that’s what family does. Javi then gets a phone call from his dad. Javi hangs up and reveals to Gabi that his father needs quadruple bypass surgery tomorrow, which means he needs to get to Texas right away.

Theo asks Paulina if she’s sure that Chanel is okay. Chanel returns and claims the smell of the coffee just made her queasy. Theo suggests she get checked out at the hospital while she’s there but Chanel reveals she knows exactly what it is. Chanel says they aren’t telling people but Theo is family, so she announces she’s pregnant.

Rafe isn’t sure what Johnny wants him to say. Johnny knows he can’t talk about ongoing investigations or tell him about what EJ has done. Rafe says if he felt Johnny or his siblings were in danger, he would let him know. Johnny asks if it has do with the delivery that EJ and Gwen were talking about. Rafe questions what delivery.

Cat tells Mark that a breakthrough sounds exciting. Mark says he’s already said too much since he signed an NDA. Cat responds that she does have a favor to ask that involves the lab.

Theo tells Chanel that it’s such great news that he will have another niece or nephew. Chanel says hopefully which Theo questions. Chanel explains that it’s considered a high risk pregnancy but they will monitor it and all that. Chanel says it is great news that she’s really happy about, but they still aren’t telling people just yet. Theo agrees not to say a word. Paulina talks about morning sickness until get she gets a call and steps out to answer. Chanel doesn’t care if she’s sick for the next nine months if it means she has a healthy pregnancy as that will be worth it.

Gabi tells Javi that she’ll get him a flight tonight and asks if he will be back in a week or two. Javi tells her to make it a one way trip for now because cardiac rehab is unpredictable, so he wants to stay with his father while he recovers. Gabi asks when Javi thinks he will be back. Javi responds that he’s not sure, considering what’s been going on in Salem. Javi declares that he may never be back.

Gwen tells Leo to state his business and go. Leo says it’s the expose he’s writing about EJ and the hospital. Gwen argues that he’s wasting his time as EJ isn’t up to anything. Leo argues that EJ is always up to something and Gwen knows what it is. Gwen says he has a vivid imagination. Leo talks about not imagining Gwen would take over Dimitri’s fortune, EJ would invite her to live in his house and that they would be conspiring over a mysterious delivery on the night of the gala. Gwen says he doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Leo insists that he knows her demeanor when she’s in too deep. Gwen denies it but Leo questions nothing going on with Gwen and EJ.

Cat tells Mark that she wouldn’t ask him for a favor if it wasn’t important but claims that EJ had some important files in a binder in his office that she needs to forward to him. Mark questions what it has to do with the lab. Cat explains that she went to the office and the binder isn’t there but she remembers him going to the lab before he left town. Mark thinks he remembers seeing EJ with the binder. Cat says she can’t just run down there because she doesn’t have the passcode to the lab so it would really help her out if Mark would give it to her, but Mark says no can do.

Johnny tells Rafe that he assumed Leo would’ve mentioned something to him and to forget he said anything. Rafe stops him and says the more they know about what EJ is up to, the better they can protect people and mitigate the damage. Johnny then explains that the night of the gala, Holly was getting B-roll footage for her student film and Leo missed EJ’s speech, so she sent him the video and Leo saw EJ and Gwen in some type of argument in the background, so he came to him about trying to enhance the audio. Johnny says he was able to make out that EJ was raking Gwen over the coals over some delivery being delayed, but they have no idea what the delivery was. Johnny says that EJ was obviously annoyed and Leo thinks it’s important enough to put in his article. Rafe says he will need a copy of that video. Johnny agrees to send it to him when he gets home. Johnny adds that his relationship with EJ is complicated at best, but they almost lost him, so he doesn’t want to be the reason he gets taken away from them again. Rafe gets that but wishes he could make Johnny understand that he’s not responsible for his father. Rafe declares that if EJ ever is brought to justice, it will be because of his actions and the choices he’s made.

Gwen argues that Leo isn’t making any sense. Leo states that he’s sober and making sense. Gwen doesn’t care what he has to say. Leo says she is going to listen and asks if she wants everyone to know what she’s been up to. Leo argues that Gwen and EJ have been up to something for months and no one’s been able to figure it out, but she tripped up by bringing Dimitri back and now people are asking all sorts of questions. Gwen asks if he ever thought Dimitri’s mother could have had him kidnapped. Leo says some people might believe it but he knows what Gwen has been up to. Leo then asks if EJ knows. Leo states that Gwen has got herself in a pickle because he bets that the reason EJ brought her in on his secret plan is because of her money and asks what EJ is going to do when he finds out that she jeopardized all of that to get back at him. Leo warns that EJ will make her regret it. Gwen responds that she only regrets ever befriending him and getting involved with Dimitri, but says at least with Dimitri there was financial gain while Leo brought her nothing but misery. Leo remarks that he holds the key to her salvation. Leo suggests he could spare her the wrath of EJ for awhile if he doesn’t publish his suspicions about what she did to Dimitri. Gwen guesses he wouldn’t do that out of the kindness of his heart. Leo confirms that he wants something in return for his silence.

Johnny goes to Theo’s room and says he didn’t know Chanel would be there. Chanel says she should get going, so she hugs Theo and tells him she’ll be back soon. Theo congratulates her again. Chanel tells Johnny that she will see him at home and exits. Johnny asks Theo what he was congratulating Chanel about. Theo informs him that Chanel just told him the good news about the baby. Theo says he knows they didn’t plan on telling people yet but Chanel had morning sickness so it was pretty hard to hide. Theo hopes that’s okay. Johnny says it is because he’s family. Theo questions if there was some tension between he and Chanel. Johnny admits that unfortunately things are a little strained between them right now.

Gabi tells Javi not to be ridiculous as he will come back to Salem when his father gets better because he has a life here. Javi questions if he does. Javi says he has Gabi, Rafe, Arianna, and his job, but he can’t put his life on hold until Leo figures things out. Gabi says she understands. Gabi encourages that Javi’s father will get better soon and then he’ll come back to them. They both get emotional as they hug.

Cat questions Mark being serious and says she realizes that the lab is off limits but she’s in a jam and trying to keep her job. Mark remarks that he didn’t see the binder last time he was in the lab. Mark says he obviously can’t give her the code but he can take her to the lab and let her look around which Cat says will work.

Gwen argues that Leo doesn’t know anything but she’s curious what he wants in return to stay silent. Leo then instructs Gwen to make Dimitri disappear again.

Mark and Cat go to the hospital where they run in to Rafe. Rafe brings up asking Mark about the missing DiMeras. Cat hopes he doesn’t think Mark had anything to do with that. Mark says it’s alright while Cat argues that Rafe can’t harass the staff at the hospital and will have to follow proper procedures. Rafe mocks the idea of proper procedures being more important than missing people. Cat says she’ll look the other way this time, but all future inquiries about the hospital go through her. Mark says they should get going so he and Cat head to the lab.

Theo questions Johnny not being on cloud nine to find out that Chanel is pregnant. Johnny says he’d rather not get in to it and he didn’t come to talk about his problems, but to see how Theo is doing. Theo says he’s better, especially knowing DiMera is in good hands while he’s out of commission. Theo admits he was pretty surprised when he heard that Johnny agreed to step in. Johnny says he’s just keeping his seat warm until he gets back. Theo talks about still settling in and he’s sure Johnny will be fine. Theo mentions Gabi bringing him a stuffed toy when she visited him.

Paulina finishes her call, saying she’s dealing with a family matter but will be in her office later. Paulina sees Chanel leaving. Chanel says her nausea was kicking in so she figured she would go home and rest. Paulina gets another call so she says she’ll catch up with her later. Chanel turns around and runs in to Johnny, who asks about her morning sickness. Johnny says he’s glad she told Theo, but he hates what’s going on between them. Johnny suggests making it right since it will be weeks before they even know if the pregnancy is viable, so they might as well be there for each other through it all. Chanel agrees but knowing Johnny doesn’t want the baby is hurtful. Johnny argues that he never said he didn’t want the baby, just that he’s scared of losing her. Johnny assures that he does want the baby as long as she and the baby are healthy. Chanel insists that the odds are in their favor but Johnny remains worried. Chanel says she can’t live in the worst case scenario, so she’s choosing to think positively and that’s what she needs from him. Chanel encourages him to have faith that everything will be fine and that the baby will enrich their lives just like Trey has. Johnny agrees to think positively from now on and apologizes for upsetting her with his worries and hopes she can forgive him. Chanel knows his heart is always in the right place and she loves him so much. Johnny says he loves her too and suggests going home. Johnny says his morning meeting got cancelled and she’s more important than any job, so he will always make time for her as they hug.

Gwen questions Leo telling her to make Dimitri disappear again. Leo tells her to ship him off back to where she had him. Leo argues that she would get to keep his money while he and Javi would get their happily ever after so it’s a win-win. Gwen calls Leo more pathetic than she realized and argues that Leo wants to send Dimitri to another continent so he doesn’t have to make a choice. Leo argues that there is no choice since Javi is the man he loves. Gwen points out that Dimitri is the man he lusts for. Leo asks how this is any of her business, reminding her that he despises her but admits he still has a soft spot for her. Leo says every time he looks at Gwen, all the memories of their good times come back. Leo acknowledges that he screwed up and there’s no coming back from the damage. Gwen agrees and says she detests and resents him, but she also has a soft spot for him too and the memories they have together. Gwen tells Leo that he needs to make a decision soon on who he wants to spend the rest of his life with between Dimitri or Javi.

Gabi books Javi on the last flight out tonight and tells him he’s all set. Javi tearfully thanks her, but says there’s one more person he needs to say goodbye to.

Theo falls asleep and has a dream about wanting to kiss Gabi. Theo wakes up with Paulina at his side and says he just had a weird dream. Abe then arrives with food from the bakery. Theo tells Abe that Chanel told him that she and Johnny are having another baby, so they have a lot to celebrate.

Chanel and Johnny go home. They talk about Trey still being with the babysitter so they have an hour to themselves. Chanel asks Johnny for a foot massage but Javi shows up at their door. Javi apologizes for barging in without calling but he’s doing a million things before he leaves town because his dad is having heart surgery, so he’s flying to Texas tonight to take care of him. Johnny asks how long he will be gone. Javi says it could be awhile, so he wanted to come say goodbye to Trey. Chanel says they are sorry but Trey is out with the babysitter, though he should be back in an hour or so if he wants to wait. Javi says he can’t as he has to go pack. Chanel stops him and says there’s no way they are letting him leave town without seeing his Godson.

Rafe goes home as Gabi is finishing a call about a one way ticket to Corpus Christi. Gabi informs Rafe that Javi is leaving town, maybe for good, and it’s all Leo Stark’s fault.

Leo tells Gwen that he doesn’t know what he’s going to do but the waiting period to file his wedding certificate is about to expire. Gwen remarks that his indecision is a way for him to make a decision because if his license expires, Javi dumps him, then he can run off with Dimitri without the guilt. Gwen asks how Leo expects her to send Dimitri off to where he was when she had nothing to do with his kidnapping. Gwen tells Leo that if he wants Dimitri to disappear, he’ll have to do it himself. Leo concludes this was a huge waste of time, humiliating, and depressing. Leo complains that Gwen just wants to see him suffer which she says has been quite satisfying. Leo tells Gwen that it’s over because he’s on his way to being mentally healthy thanks to lots of therapy. Leo declares he is practicing gratitude and goes to leave but Gwen stops him and says he can wait here for Dimitri to come home.

Mark brings Cat to the lab. Cat thanks him again for letting her in to check for the binder. Cat claims she has to respond to a text but secretly uses her phone to record Mark putting in the passcode. Mark then remembers he has to take care of something first. Cat asks him to just let her in first but Mark says that’s not going to happen, so she will just have to wait and try again later. Mark then hurries out.

Abe and Paulina talk with Theo about the excitement of Chanel’s pregnancy. Theo loves seeing his family get bigger, especially after being in the crypt. Theo admits that it was nice seeing the DiMera side of his family come together. Abe and Paulina say they both just want Theo to be happy.

Rafe tells Gabi that it’s not Leo’s fault that Javi’s dad is having heart trouble. Gabi knows Javi would be going even if he did marry Leo, but the reason it’s a one way trip is because Leo can’t make up his damn mind. Rafe calls it a complicated situation and he thinks it’s best to give Javi and Leo space to figure it out. Gabi declares that the one thing is more clear than ever is that Javi deserves better than Leo and she hopes he finds him.

Javi tells Chanel and Johnny that it’s incredibly sweet but he’s not officially Trey’s Godfather yet if they want to pick someone else since he doesn’t know how long he will be gone. Johnny says no way as they chose him. Javi feels he can’t ask them to put off the Christening until he gets back. Johnny responds that it’s going to sound crazy, but asks what if they make the Christening today and Javi can still make his flight. Javi agrees to do it since his flight isn’t until tonight. Chanel asks if he knows if Leo is free. Javi says he’s not the right person to ask. Chanel apologizes since she knows they are going through something and asks if he’s not comfortable. Javi assures that whatever issues they are having doesn’t change how they feel about Trey. Johnny says it would mean the world to them. Javi says it means a lot to him too.

Cat calls Rafe, who asks if Mark let her in to the lab. Cat says no since he got sidelined but she managed to get the first 3 digits of the code as “118”. Rafe calls that a start. Cat apologizes for lacing in to him earlier. Rafe understands she had to keep her cover and then reveals that he got his hands on Peter Blake’s autopsy, but says he didn’t learn anything interesting as the cause of death was heart failure caused by chest trauma just like they thought. Rafe reveals that he might have stumbled onto another lead while at the hospital. Rafe thinks he may have found out what Leo was fishing for when he called Cat because it seems EJ was caught on video, arguing with Gwen about a delivery, so they just need to figure out what it was a delivery of.

Leo tells Gwen that he does not want to wait for Dimitri to come back. Leo says he thought she was more clever than this as she was able to bring back Dimitri just in time to destroy his life, but in doing so, she more than likely destroyed her own too.

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Days Update Thursday, January 15, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

At the Horton House, Julie talks to Jeremy about being nervous for the mediation over Thomas and Charlotte’s custody. Julie says she just prays that the family can come back together. Jeremy is on his tablet and comes across Alex and Stephanie’s engagement announcement. Jeremy then remarks that he prays for that too.

Jada goes to see Stephanie at home. Jada questions having to find out that her best friend is getting married in the paper. Stephanie apologizes but Jada understands she’s been working 24/7 the past 2 weeks but she’s here now and is so happy for her. Jada congratulates her as they hug.

Brady goes to see Marlena, who asks what’s happening with Rachel at Bayview. Brady says damned if he knows.

Rachel’s therapist Dr. Gregory goes to see her in her room and guesses Rachel knows why she is there. Rachel knows it’s because she pretended to be Sophia at bed check and asks if she’s going to be punished. She says no, but there will be consequences and new boundaries as she needs to know this will never happen again.

Sarah confronts Xander at Titan and asks what the hell is wrong with him.

Brady tells Marlena that the story he got was that Rachel pretended to be Sophia so that Sophia could get to a library in the other wing and catch up on her studies by the time she gets out. Marlena thought Sophia wasn’t talking. Brady says she’s apparently writing which was a shock to the staff as well. Brady says he’s kicking himself because he thought if Sophia wasn’t talking, she couldn’t be much of an influence on Rachel. Brady wishes he would’ve thought there would be other ways of communication and says he’s not sure he buys the story of Sophia going to the library to work on her homework.

Rachel swears to Dr. Gregory that she will not help Sophia sneak out to the library at bed check again. She asks if Rachel is sure that’s where Sophia went. Rachel remarks that she didn’t go with her so how she should know. Dr. Gregory goes over that being where Sophia wrote to her that she was going and asks to see some of the notes that Sophia wrote her. Rachel says she was afraid someone might find them so she got rid of them. Dr. Gregory assumes she threw them in the trash then but Rachel claims that she ate them.

Jeremy looks at Alex and Stephanie’s engagement announcement and then shuts his laptop. Julie asks him what’s wrong but Jeremy says nothing and that he has to get going as he got permission to go see Rachel at Bayview which Julie says is wonderful. Jeremy jokes about it getting him out of grading papers. Maggie comes over and tells Julie that she came for her book for Book Club. Maggie greets Jeremy, who quickly says goodbye and hurries out of the house.

Sarah questions Xander firing Brady from his own father’s company because he got upset over their divorce decree and asks what is wrong with him. Xander tells her to calm down and says it wasn’t because of that as he argues that Brady’s work has been slipping for a long time and he could’ve continued to ignore it if Titan’s future wasn’t on the line. Sarah tells him that’s because his daughter is ill and that Xander told him he would accommodate for whatever is needed. Sarah calls Xander a royal ass which Xander agrees with.

Marlena asks why Brady doesn’t believe Sophia’s story. Brady responds that he didn’t mention it to the Bayview staff, but he discovered all the cash in his wallet was missing. Brady says that Rachel swore she didn’t take it but he doesn’t see any other explanation than Rachel gave it to Sophia because the timing coincides with Rachel pretending to be Sophia at bed check. Marlena questions why Sophia would want the cash. Brady says he has no idea since the staff assured him that Sophia could not have snuck out. Brady wonders if Sophia was saving money so she wouldn’t be beholden to her family when she gets out, but that sounds far-fetched. Marlena asks if it’s possible that Rachel didn’t take the money. Brady calls it unlikely and asks Marlena how to handle this. Marlena asks if he’s sure he wants her advice.

Dr. Gregory questions Rachel eating Sophia’s notes and argues that she’s lucky it didn’t make her sick. She thinks it’s best for now if Rachel doesn’t spend time with Sophia. Rachel is shocked and thought she wasn’t being punished. Dr. Gregory calls it boundaries while Rachel complains that Sophia is her only friend. Dr. Gregory points out that several other patients are closer to her age. Rachel calls them all lame. Dr. Gregory tells Rachel that her goal is to get better so she can go home, so she has to respect that they know what’s best for her. Rachel reluctantly responds that she understands she’s not allowed to be friends with Sophia anymore. Dr. Gregory repeats that they know what’s best for her and tells her that she’s always there for her if she wants to talk as she then exits the room.

Maggie tells Julie that she gathers Jeremy is still upset with her. Julie brings up Maggie accusing him of sending objectionable fan mail to Stephanie, so she asks why he wouldn’t be upset. Maggie clarifies that she didn’t accuse him and just asked because at the moment, she felt that she had to. Julie can’t believe Maggie thinks that Jeremy is the crazed fan. Maggie wishes she didn’t, but points out that Jeremy got so angry when she asked him about it. Maggie calls it a flash of Jeremy’s old self that he keeps saying he put behind him.

Stephanie shows Jada her engagement ring and tells her that Alex totally caught her off guard and she was stunned. Jada says she knew Alex would propose, she just didn’t know when. Stephanie asks if she missed obvious hints. Jada then reveals that Alex asked her to help him pick out the ring. Stephanie says it couldn’t be more perfect and she couldn’t have done a better job pretending she hadn’t seen it before. Stephanie tells Jada that she’s hoping that she will be her maid of honor. Jada responds that she would be honored and accepts.

Sarah questions Xander admitting he’s an ass. Xander says he can admit that the way he handled Brady’s firing wasn’t great and he’s sorry for that, but that’s all he’s sorry for. Xander is sure Sarah heard that Maggie offered Brady his job back, but he turned it down and said he’d be thinking about leaving for awhile so this was just the push he needed. Sarah argues that it still doesn’t excuse him from insulting Brady for no reason. Xander says he didn’t say it did and that he admitted to being an ass, but tells Sarah that he’s not the only one as she should look in the mirror.

Brady knows he asked Marlena not to weigh in on Rachel’s treatment, but that was a mistake because she’s the wisest woman he knows. Marlena asks if he’s convinced that Rachel did not take his money. Brady states that his wallet was in his coat in Rachel’s room and he and Kristen stepped out temporarily, so someone could’ve come in and taken it but they weren’t gone long and no one else was in the room. Brady says it could be possible but he doesn’t want Rachel to be stuck in there any longer than she has to be. Brady argues that she’s just a child. Marlena responds that everyone has to learn to be responsible for their actions and the consequences. Marlena says when Rachel ignores set boundaries, that’s painful but it’s what they have to do as loving parents. Brady notes that’s exactly what Dr. Gregory said and he knows it’s true. Marlena remarks that knowing and doing can be entirely different things.

Jeremy goes to Bayview to visit Rachel. Jeremy tells her that all of her friends at school miss her and want her to get better. Jeremy brought her letters from her friends. Rachel guesses he wants her to answer all of them. Jeremy says she doesn’t have to if she doesn’t want to. Rachel says that’s good because she doesn’t want more homework. Jeremy knows he hasn’t been her favorite teacher but he respects how honest she’s been with him and he hopes she will be back before he leaves her classroom.

Jada talks about being lucky that her and Stephanie’s dads were best friends and now they are too. They talk about how it could’ve gone entirely different because they were both involved with Everett Lynch aka Bobby Stein. Jada says that whole thing was crazy and could’ve destroyed their friendship but they are grateful it didn’t. Jada asks if she still thinks Jeremy is behind the creepy fan letters and posting online. Stephanie says she doesn’t know but Steve is working to track the online posts. Jada mentions that they have now opened an investigation on this and opened department resources to Steve even though she knows he has resources of his own.

Julie tells Maggie that if she was accused of something over and over that she didn’t do, she would show some anger too. Maggie apologizes as she didn’t mean to upset her too. Julie says she really likes Jeremy and that it’s been wonderful having him in the house which has been a very different experience than with Doug III and assures she won’t make the same mistake twice. Julie asks if Maggie has finished reading Stephanie’s novel Write Out. Maggie says not yet, but she’s glad to have the books to take her brain off of Titan. Julie asks how it’s going at Titan. Maggie admits it continues to be very stressful because she’s working with her ex-son in law. Julie asks if Xander is misbehaving. Maggie responds that despite his claims to have his anger under control, he continues to have a very short fuse that is very easily set off. Julie asks what he did. Maggie informs her that Xander fired Brady.

Sarah asks Xander how she is the ass. Xander tells her how sick he is of her lecturing him as if he’s the only person in their relationship that ever made a mistake. Xander argues that he’s self aware enough to know he has issues and is going to therapy to work through them unlike her. Sarah questions thinking she has issues that come anywhere close to his horrible ones. Xander asks if she thinks she’s a posterchild for mental health. Xander accuses Sarah of having a fling with his nephew to get back at him. Sarah asks what the hell he’s even talking about. Xander says she knows exactly what he’s talking about. Sarah responds that she’s free to have a fling with whoever she wants, but assures she is not having a fling with Brady and she doesn’t do anything to get back at him. Sarah argues that if she spends time with Brady or anyone else, it’s because they offer her support, comfort and aren’t toxic to be around. Xander yells at her to go be with Brady then. Sarah decides she shouldn’t have come here which Xander agrees with as she storms out.

Stephanie tells Jada that if Jeremy is sending the letters, it’s seriously disturbing and he is a teacher working with children. Jada points out that one of her officers has a kid in Jeremy’s class and she’s crazy about him. Jada adds that it’s not just the students but the parents and administration all have zero complaints. Stephanie asks if she’s saying that means Jeremy didn’t write the creepy notes to her. Jada states that if they are wrong about this, they could ruin Jeremy’s career and life, so they have to find solid proof before they can accuse him. Stephanie responds that they are working on an idea to get just that.

Sarah goes home to the Kiriakis Mansion where Maggie awaits. Maggie guesses from her look that she went to see Xander. Sarah confirms that she couldn’t let him get away with firing Brady. Maggie reminds her that she told her not to go confront him. Sarah admits she was right, but she wanted to let him know that what he did was vindictive and just plain wrong. Maggie wonders if Sarah was looking for an excuse to see Xander.

Brady tells Marlena that when he put Rachel in Bayview, he persuaded himself that it was the best place for her but maybe she should be in a bigger facility that specializes in children’s mental health. Marlena points out that other places are very far away and Rachel is comfortable where she is, close to home. Marlena adds that Brady is her father so it is his decision.

Jeremy informs Rachel that he’s not going to teach her class anymore as her teacher will be back from maternity leave so soon. Jeremy says he knows she’s happy about that and it’s okay as it’s important to be honest about her feelings. Jeremy informs Rachel that he was in therapy for a long time himself and it did him a lot of good, making him a stronger and more thoughtful person to make better choices. Jeremy says it helped him out a lot, so he knows it will help her too.

Stephanie tells Jada that part of the reason for posting the engagement announcement was to draw out whoever is sending these letters. Jada is surprised that Steve was on board with that. Stephanie clarifies that he wasn’t at first, but she and Alex convinced him that they can’t keep living like this. They agree that it’s not just about creepy letters anymore after the threats towards Alex, so there’s a clear and present danger. Jada wants this guy caught soon and promises she’s doing everything in her power to speed up the process. Jada adds that she has more time now that the DiMeras have been found. Stephanie says thank God that Theo is back. Jada says the last thing she wants is for that same thing to happen to Stephanie. Jada wants to watch Stephanie walk down the aisle and marry the man of her dreams. Stephanie says she has every intention of doing that.

Jeremy encourages Rachel that being in therapy is nothing to be ashamed of. Rachel thanks him for coming to visit. Jeremy says he’ll be thinking of her and hopes she goes home soon as he then exits.

Brady thanks Marlena for listening and giving him advice as he’s always grateful for it. Marlena assures that he always has her support. Brady adds that he does have to talk to her about one other thing about Basic Black. Brady informs Marlena that Xander fired him yesterday which shocks her. Marlena questions why he would do such a thing. Brady feels it wasn’t about him or his job performance, but about Xander getting his divorce decree. Marlena argues that he can’t do that and it won’t stick. Brady then reveals that Maggie offered him his job back, but he declined. Brady repeats that Xander firing him gave him the push he needed to do something different with his life. Brady says he’s been sticking with Basic Black for a long time and it always had a lot do with John. Brady says he was there for John and didn’t want to disappoint him. Brady asks if leaving Basic Black will be letting him down. Marlena says that he’s not and that John would want him to do what’s best for him as that’s all he ever wanted for all of his children.

Sarah questions why everyone thinks she has an ulterior motive when it comes to Xander. Maggie asks what she means. Sarah complains that she thinks she went out of her way to pick a fight with Xander just to see him while Xander thinks she’s doing whatever with Brady just to get back at him. Sarah declares they are both dead wrong.

Marlena asks Brady who will take over at Basic Black. Brady says he’s not sure but Maggie told him he could have a say because he wants it to stay in the family, but there’s no candidates right now. Marlena doesn’t think he has anything to worry about and that it might be a very good time for him to focus on his own path and spend time with his daughter. Marlena advises him to think of it as a gift. Brady decides that’s exactly what he will do.

Rachel returns to her room from therapy and finds a note from Sophia that says she got the phone and to stay tuned for next steps. Rachel then tears up the note and eats it.

Maggie tells Sarah that she didn’t mean to upset her as she knows how hard this has been for her and she’s been so proud of her being so strong. Maggie says her marriage to Xander is over but the feelings don’t just dissolve which is why she wants her to be careful with Brady which Sarah questions. Maggie explains that when she saw them on New Year’s Eve, it seemed like she caught them in a close moment and they are both fragile right now. Sarah responds that she’s trying to decide if she should talk about it because she doesn’t know how Maggie will react. Maggie says whatever it is, she’s here for her. Maggie assumes that there is something between Sarah and Brady. Sarah admits that she might want to be more than friends with Brady, but Rachel obviously has issues with her and any woman that Brady has tried to date. Sarah says no matter her feelings about it, Rachel’s well being comes first.

Xander remains at Titan and calls Marlena. Xander asks if there’s any chance he could book an appointment with her as soon as possible.

Jada tells Stephanie that she’s so glad things worked out for her and Alex. Jada promises they will catch the creepy fan soon, so that Stephanie and Alex can stop worrying and start planning their wedding because she deserves all of her dreams to come true. Stephanie tells Jada the same as they hug.

Jeremy returns home to the Horton house and opens up his laptop still on Stephanie and Alex’s engagement announcement, then shuts it.

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Days Short Recap Friday, January 16, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Gabi let Javi know that she would take Leo’s mail to him so he wouldn’t have to run into him. Javi appreciated what she wanted to do for him. While they were talking, Javi got a call about his father having quadruple bypass surgery. He said he had to leave and go to Texas. Gabi wondered when he would be back. Javi wasn’t sure considering everything that happened with Leo. Gabi reminded him that he had a life in Salem. Javi couldn’t put his life on hold waiting for Leo. Johnny went to the hospital to check on Theo. He ran into Rafe. Rafe was worried that Johnny was going to turn into a true DiMera. Johnny stressed that EJ wasn’t part of the business. He joked that his father had everyone including the FBI investigating him. Rafe didn’t say anything about it. Johnny took his silence as a confession. The only thing Rafe would tell him is that he would let him and his siblings know if there were any danger. Johnny wondered if the investigation had anything to do with the package his father and Gwen talked about. Rafe asked him about the delivery. Johnny told him about the video Leo sent him to clean up the audio. Rafe wanted to see the footage.

Chanel visited Theo at the hospital. She talked to him about her pregnancy. They talked until Johnny showed up. Chanel left them alone to talk. Theo informed Johnny that he knew about the pregnancy. He wondered if there was tension between the couple. Johnny explained what happened with Chanel. He changed the subject and asked him about his health. Theo thanked him for running the business for him while he was recovering. Chanel saw Johnny leave Theo’s room. They talked about the tension between them. Johnny and Chanel agreed to support each other until they knew more about the pregnancy. Leo arrived at the DiMera mansion to see Gwen. He asked her about the delivery that happened on the night of the gala. Leo told her that her only mistake of planning with EJ was Dimitri’s return. He knew what Gwen was up to. Leo wondered if EJ knew what she wanted to do. He knew that EJ would be upset if he found out that she could have ruined hi cashflow by putting revenge first. Gwen told him that her mistake was befriending him and falling for a fake marriage. Leo was willing to hold off writing the story if she made Dimitri disappear. He told her that making Dimitri disappear meant that she would get to keep his money. Leo wanted to be happy with Javi. Gwen thought he was pathetic for trying to get rid of his problem instead of making a decision between Javi and Dimitri.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, January 15, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Sarah barged into Xander’s office and demanded to know why he fired Brady. Xander told her that he didn’t fire Brady because of jealousy. He told her that Brady’s work was lacking because Rachel was sick. Sarah got upset when he said that. She called him an a** , and he agreed with her. Xander admitted that he didn’t handle things well and that he turned Maggie down when she wanted him to give Brady his job back. Sarah was upset that Xander insulted Brady for no reason. Xander told her that he wasn’t the only a**. He said that she should look in the mirror. She was shocked by his comment. He was tired of her criticizing him as if he were the only one who messed up in their relationship. Xander told her that he made mistakes, but he was getting help. He thought Sarah was having an affair with Brady to get back at him. Sarah denied having an affair with Brady. They ended up arguing until she stormed out of his office. Xander called Marlena to have an emergency therapy session. Jeremy noticed how nervous Julie was about the custody hearing for Thomas and Charlotte. Julie didn’t see the way Jeremy reacted when he saw Alex and Stephanie’s engagement on his tablet. He closed his tablet and let Julie know that he was going to see Rachel at Bayview. Maggie arrived at the Horton house, and Jeremy was cold to her. Julie understood why Jeremy was chilly towards her since she accused him of stalking Stephanie. Maggie still suspected him of being her stalker especially after the way he reacted when she asked him about it. Julie told her that she liked having Jeremy around. Maggie changed the subject to talk about what’s going on with Xander. Julie was shocked Xander fired Brady.

Brady went to see Marlena to tell her what happened with Rachel the night before. He wasn’t sure if he believed Rachel and Sophia’s story. He thought that Sophia wasn’t really mute. Brady talked to Marlena about the money that was missing from his wallet. Rachel claimed she didn’t take it, but he couldn’t think of another way that it disappeared. Marlena wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt, but Brady wasn’t convinced. Seh thought that Brady should talk to the hospital about the missing money. Brady didn’t want to cause Rachel to lose her privileges. Marlena felt like Rachel should learn that actions had consequences. Dr. Gregory met with Rachel and wanted her to reassure her that she wouldn’t work with Sophia again. Rachel promised not to do it again. The doctor wondered if Sophia snuck out to go to the library. She said that Sophia told her that she was going to the library. Realizing her mistake, Rachel corrected herself and said Sophia wrote it down. Dr. Gregory wanted to see the notes, but Rachel said she got rid of them by eating them. The doctor couldn’t believe Rachel ate paper. Rachel had a tantrum when the doctor told her that she couldn’t see Sophia anymore. She told her that Sophia was her only friend. Dr. Gregory said she could make new friend her age.

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Days Update Wednesday, January 14, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Holly goes to see Arianna at home. Arianna is going through all of the wedding gifts for Leo and Javi. Arianna tells Holly that Gabi told her to get rid of it all before Javi gets home and guesses she was chosen because she’s the only one who isn’t that depressed that it’s over. Holly asks if she’s sure it is over.

Leo continues drinking at the Brady Pub. Chad arrives to join him and says it looks like he’s having quite the party. Leo tells Chad that he wasn’t by himself as Xander was there earlier. Leo admits it was hard to keep up with him. Chad suggests they pump the brakes on this party and get him a glass of water.

Rachel and Sophia return to Rachel’s room from dinner at Bayview, complaining about the dinner they had being nasty. Sophia remarks that Bayview ruins everything. Sophia suggests they move on to more important matters. Sophia declares that thanks to the bank of Rachel’s dad, they will soon have a new phone. Rachel asks if Sophia has a way to pay Brady back because she hated stealing from him. Sophia says that desperate times call for desperate measures and insists that this was the only way. Sophia adds that Brady’s loaded so he won’t even notice the money is missing. Sophia says they are the ones trapped in this horrible place, not Brady. Sophia says they don’t want to eat this dinner anymore and calls what they are doing the human spirit fighting for it’s existence. Sophia talks about battling hardship and overcoming challenges. Sophia declares that after everything they have been through, they deserve this.

Brady goes to see Tate at Marlena’s. Tate talks about studying while on winter break and getting a head start on his reading list. Brady recalls that he was supposed to read Moby Dick in his freshman year but he bought the cliff notes, so Tate is a better student than he was. Tate points out that Brady turned out okay and ran his own company. Brady then reveals that he lost his job today.

Kristen goes to the DiMera Mansion and surprises Gwen in the living room. Gwen pours a drink and welcomes her home.

Chad gets Leo a glass of water and asks how he’s doing. Leo asks if he really needs to ask. Leo is sorry that Chad being his best man didn’t work out, but says he shouldn’t be surprised that it turned out to be a complete fiasco. Chad encourages that what happened was not his fault. Leo says it sure feels like it. Leo states that if he was told a year ago that Dimitri would come back in to his life and profess his undying love, he would’ve exploded in to cosmic dust, but not now.

Arianna admits to Holly that it hasn’t officially ended between Leo and Javi, but she really hopes it does. Arianna hates that Javi is heartbroken, but says it was bound to happen sooner or later because Leo is a human wrecking ball at relationships. Holly doesn’t think Leo is all that bad. Holly admits Leo doesn’t have the best track record, but he’s always been nice to her. Arianna argues that’s probably because he wanted something from her. Arianna remarks that Javi was like a consolation prize until Dimitri came back and now Javi is heartbroken. Arianna points out Gwen getting them an expensive Italian knife set as a wedding gift. Holly questions Gwen getting them a gift. Arianna complains that it’s all too convenient that Leo and Gwen’s ex just happened to show up at Leo and Javi’s wedding. Holly asks if she thinks Gwen was behind this. Arianna responds that she has no idea, but if she was, she thinks Gwen did them all a favor.

Gwen tells Kristen that she’s sorry for everything she went through, being held captive in the crypt and with Peter. Kristen responds that she’s just focused on moving forward and being there for her daughter. Gwen mentions hearing Rachel was at Bayview. Kristen goes along with the idea that Rachel thinking Kristen broke out of prison is what caused her breakdown. Gwen encourages that Rachel will recover in no time that Kristen is back home.

Sophia and Rachel go over using their same plan as before where Sophia sneaks out the side door, Rachel pretends to be Sophia under the covers in her bed and then back to her own room, before letting Sophia back in.

Tate questions how it’s even possible for Brady to lose his job when Basic Black was his company. Brady says it’s Xander and tells Tate it’s okay because he fired him before he had a chance to quit since he’s been thinking about a career change for quite some time now. Tate questions what he’s changing to. Brady says he doesn’t know and that just because he’s not running Basic Black, he still wants it in the family and to be Tate and Rachel’s legacy, so he talked to Maggie and she said she would make that happen. Tate says that’s good to know but questions who is running it for now. Brady says right now his second in command Amira is running it but Maggie is going to want someone more permanent. Brady points out that Tate is a business major and asks if this is something he’s ever thought about down the line, to run a company. Tate responds that he doesn’t know. Brady explains that he would start with an internship and learn the ropes of the business. Brady asks what Tate says to that.

Gwen tells Kristen that she’s really glad she’s back as she could really use a friend in the mansion. Kristen says she’s really flattered but she doesn’t plan on staying long. Gwen questions why not. Kristen responds that the last thing she wants is to live under the same roof as EJ. Gwen calls EJ a handful. Kristen points out that since EJ is out of town, she could drop for a few days. Gwen encourages that they will have so much fun. Gwen jokes that it could be like old times when they were cellmates in prison.

Rachel asks Sophia to stop at Buddy’s Burgers again while she’s out. Sophia agrees to see what she can do as she goes to sneak out of Bayview.

Tate tells Brady that he’s really honored that he would ask him and that he thinks that highly of him, but running a company is not something he ever envisioned himself doing. Brady repeats that he would start with an internship and work his way up. Tate admits it’s not something he’s interested in and he doesn’t think he’d be good at it yet, so he’d be afraid that he would be letting John down. Brady is sure that he wouldn’t but says he gets that he needs to follow his passion. Tate thanks him for understanding. Tate then asks who else Brady can ask to take on the company. Brady calls that a good question.

Arianna and Holly continue going through wedding gifts until Holly announces her plans to rush a sorority. Arianna mentions hearing that can be intense and stressful. Holly then tells Arianna that they are going to do it together.

Chad stops Leo from drinking more tequila and gives him the glass of water, saying he’s a friend that doesn’t want to see him circle the drain. Leo reluctantly gives in but mocks the idea. Chad asks if Leo wants to talk through this very tough decision he’ll have to make. Leo calls Javi kind and loyal and makes him want to be a better person while Dimitri is none of those things. Leo then admits he wishes he didn’t still have feelings for Dimitri. Leo complains that he spent his entire life lying and strategizing to try and protect himself and avoid being abandoned, but it didn’t work. Leo repeats that he still has feelings for Dimitri.

Arianna tells Holly that rushing isn’t really apart of her game plan. Holly encourages her that it will be a blast. Arianna doesn’t think she will have time when her internship at DiMera starts. Holly guesses that comes first. Arianna asks how her job is going. Holly says it’s not that great as she didn’t really have work over the holidays and admits she’s been kind of bored. Arianna asks if she wants to go to Small Bar. Holly points out that she doesn’t have a fake ID. Arianna decides they need to fix that.

Chad says it’s good that Leo is being honest with himself as that takes courage and it’s also good they didn’t file the wedding certificate if he’s still figuring out his feelings. Leo states that he does love Javi with his entire heart and before he met Javi, he didn’t know what true love was, but then he started to get it. Chad asks if it isn’t the same with Dimitri. Leo says he doesn’t know but he was dreaming about him last night. Leo talks about feeling self loathing and shame. Leo questions loving two people at the same time. Leo then asks Chad if he’s ever been in love with two people at once. Chad says he has not. Leo brings up that Marlena has. Chad tells Leo no more drinking or wallowing and to go home to sleep, then figure this out in the light of day.

Kristen questions Gwen bringing up prison. Gwen thought she’d enjoy the humor now that she’s free and clear. Kristen responds that she’s out on bail but time will tell if she’s free and clear.

Tate apologizes for letting Brady down. Brady assures that he understands and he’ll just have to find someone sooner than later, but that’s his concern and not Tate’s. Brady tells Tate to just worry about being a college student and studying. Brady calls it a special time in his life. Tate remembers the game is about to start, so Brady decides to order a pizza but finds that all the cash in his wallet is gone.

Rachel pretends to be Sophia in her bed during bed check but the nurse comes in to take a closer look.

Leo asks where Chad would live if he could live in any American city and guesses it would be Denver. Chad repeats that they should get him home. Leo complains about his sad little room at the Salem Inn. Leo asks Chad about his custody mediation being tomorrow and how he feels about it. Chad responds that his guess is as good as his.

Holly tells Arianna that even if she wanted a fake ID, she can’t. Holly reminds Arianna that she set their dorm on fire and she promised Maggie that she wouldn’t do anything to get them in trouble. Arianna points out that she’s rushing a sorority. Holly says she’s not saying she’ll never drink again but she doesn’t want to get arrested for trying to get in to a bar. Holly adds that she and Tate have plans tonight anyways. Arianna says big surprise. Holly questions what that means. Arianna admits that she’s a little tired of being their third wheel, but it’s not her fault that she’s terminally single. Holly encourages that she just hasn’t met the right guy yet and asks if she will go on dating apps. Arianna refuses to do that but says she will go to Small Bar. Holly reminds her not to hook up with a random stranger and asks if she’s sure. Arianna tells her not to worry as she’s a big girl.

Gwen calls Kristen’s response a very cryptic answer to a simple question. Kristen says that’s all she can say at the moment. Gwen says she will respect her privacy. Kristen says she’d love to stay up and drink but it’s been a long day and she’s very excited to crawl in to bed which Gwen calls understandable. Gwen then informs Kristen that Dimitri is staying there as well.

Tate questions Brady’s money being gone. Brady says he just went to the ATM so it doesn’t make any sense. Tate advises him to try and retrace his steps. Brady says he stopped and got coffee before going to Bayview. Tate asks if he thinks someone might have taken it while he was there. Brady thinks back to Rachel wanting them to look at her drawing and says he’s afraid he does. Brady then gets a call from Bayview and says he’ll be right there. Tate asks him what’s wrong. Brady says he can’t talk as he has to deal with Rachel as he then rushes out of the house.

Leo calls Chad the best father any kid could ever ask for. Leo says Thomas and Charlotte hit the lottery. Leo asks what he can do and if Chad wants him to come to the mediation. Chad says he can’t do that as it’s not a hearing but it’s them trying to hash things out. Leo goes over that Jack and Jennifer want to take the kids to Boston while Chad wants to keep them here and questions how they hash that out, feeling it doesn’t make sense. Chad decides it’s time to get Leo home. Leo agrees that maybe he’s right. Leo tells Chad that he’s been his human version of a blanket fort in the storm. Chad tells Leo to lean on him as he walks him out of the Pub.

Holly goes to see Tate and asks if he’s busy. Tate informs her that he and Brady were supposed to hang out but Bayview called. Tate guesses Rachel must have gotten in trouble since Brady seemed upset and just took off. Holly encourages that it’s nothing too serious. Tate feels it has to be and says he feels terrible for Brady as it just seems like one thing after another. Holly asks if there’s anything she can do as they hug.

Brady goes to Bayview where Rachel says she can explain. Brady says he just got an earful from the doctor, who told him that Rachel pretended to be Sophia at bed check. Brady questions what is going on. Rachel says she’s sorry. Brady bets she’s sorry because she got caught and says what she did is very serious. Brady asks where Sophia is but Rachel says she doesn’t know. Rachel claims that Sophia asked her to pretend to be her at bed check but didn’t tell her why. Brady calls that really funny because he believed that Sophia couldn’t talk.

Sophia sneaks out of Bayview and walks through the town square in a hoodie. Arianna calls out to Sophia, asking if that’s her but she keeps on walking.

Chad walks Leo out of the Pub and tells him that he can come in late tomorrow. Leo calls Chad one of his best friends and says he really hopes that everything goes his way. Chad thanks him and hopes everything goes his way too as he hugs him. Leo says if only he knew which way that was.

Tate asks Holly if she was hanging out with Arianna later. Holly says Arianna wanted to go out but she didn’t, so she just told her that she was hanging with Tate. They kiss until Holly says she doesn’t want to distract him if he needs to study. Tate tells her not to worry as he’s actually crushing it in both classes with A’s. Holly is proud of him and wants to celebrate. Tate suggests midnight bowling so they agree to go to Alleycat’s and exit together.

Kristen questions what Dimitri is doing at the DiMera Mansion. Gwen explains that he is back in Salem to reclaim his fortune from her. Gwen adds that Dimitri claims he was being held captive in Alamainia. Kristen says after what she went through, she can believe it. Gwen argues that Dimitri wasn’t being held against his will and now he’s back with his tail between his legs, groaning that he’s going to divorce her and take everything that is his. Kristen asks if Gwen is going to let him do that. Gwen says not on her life.

Rachel tries to tell Brady that Sophia can’t talk and she meant that she wrote her a note. Brady asks if she’s kidding him right now. Brady demands Rachel start telling him the truth right now. Brady accuses her of stealing money out of his wallet tonight which Rachel denies. Brady guesses she then gave the money to Sophia. Brady says to forget about the money for now and focus on finding Sophia because she might be in danger. Sophia then appears in the doorway, so Rachel points out that she’s right there.

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Days Update Tuesday, January 13, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Cat and Gwen have drinks together in the town square. Gwen thanks Cat for inviting her while Cat is glad she could make it. Gwen says she was glad to get out of the DiMera Mansion because everything has been boring and lonely with EJ gone. Gwen adds that her whole life is rather boring and lonely because no one in this town will give her the time of day, except Cat. Cat asks about Gwen’s husband. Gwen calls Dimitri the lying, miserable cheat who humiliated her and broke her heart. Cat knows she’s not thrilled that he’s back.

Rafe goes to the DiMera Mansion to see Dimitri. Dimitri remembers him as the police commissioner while Rafe informs him that he’s now an agent with the FBI. Dimitri guesses Rafe is here to finally investigate his kidnapping but Rafe says that is not why he’s there.

Brady meets with the therapist at Bayview and thanks her for allowing Rachel’s day pass for Christmas. Brady asks her to tell him about Rachel’s progress. She says that Brady is doing everything right by visiting Rachel and letting her know that she’s loved and supported. She wishes all of her patients had the kind of family support that Rachel does. Brady wants her to start feeling like herself again. She asks if Brady has any questions about the treatment she’s received at Bayview. Brady responds that he does have a concern with her friendship with Sophia Choi.

Sophia joins Rachel in her room at Bayview and compliments her drawing. Sophia informs Rachel that she’s planning another outing tomorrow night and asks if she wants to help her out again. Rachel says definitely, but asks where she is going.

Sarah checks on Kristen in her hospital room. Kristen says she’s been released on bail and her daughter needs her. Kristen adds that she can’t stand being in the hospital where her brother died another minute. Sarah says she’s sorry. Kristen doesn’t want her sympathy, she just wants her to discharge her now. Sarah tells Kristen that they had a very hard time knocking out her infection. Kristen says she feels fine now. Sarah would feel better if she stayed on the IV for another day. Kristen argues against it. Sarah then clarifies that as a doctor, she’d like her to stay, but as a mother she understands her wanting to go see Rachel. Kristen asks if she will discharge her then. Sarah agrees to write her a prescription for a very strong oral antibiotic and has Kristen promise to come back if her symptoms worsen. Sarah asks Kristen to give Rachel her love when she sees her. Kristen calls that very kind of her and says she’s sorry for what Rachel did to her. Sarah notes that Rachel apologized so they are all good.

Brady tells the therapist about his family’s history with Sophia. She understands why Brady would be wary but notes that Rachel has been calmer and happier since befriending Sophia, adding that it helps her be more open which Brady says he certainly wants. She says if Sophia helps Rachel feel more connected, she wouldn’t discourage it. Brady understands but he’s quite sure that Sophia will not have a positive influence on his daughter…

Sophia informs Rachel that she needs to slip out to buy a cell phone because she feels so disconnected to the outside world, but she doesn’t have any money to buy one and that’s where Rachel comes in.

Dimitri complains to Rafe that he was held against his will in a foreign country and tells Rafe that his captor was obviously Gwen. Rafe questions Gwen holding him captive until she was ready to bring him back to blow up Leo’s wedding to Javi. Dimitri says it was to steal his money and he needs Rafe to do something about it. Rafe points out that the crime was outside of the US. Dimitri tells him to take it up to the ISA. Rafe brings up how he scammed them, so they won’t be likely to help. Dimitri questions why the hell Rafe came to see him if he’s not willing to help him. Rafe responds that he’s curious what he knows about the DiMera crypt kidnappings.

Cat asks Gwen about Dimitri crashing Leo and Javi’s wedding. Gwen clarifies that it was after the wedding but says the real bombshell came after when he said he plans to divorce her. Cat jokes that it couldn’t be a complete surprise since she does hate him, so she asks what she’s upset about. Gwen complains that Dimitri is going to freeze her out of his assets. Gwen calls it unfair because she worked so hard to gain access to the family money and argues that she kept it safe while he was gone. Cat asks if Dimitri explained where he had been all this time. Gwen responds that he claims he was held against his will at some Alamainian estate and that she was his kidnapper. Cat jokes that if she was, it would be pretty badass. Gwen says she can’t take credit for that because it would put her assets in litigation limbo. Cat guesses the only way Dimitri could take her assets is away if if he could prove she was guilty which Gwen says is not happening.

Rafe informs Dimitri that they found a hidden camera in the crypt so someone was watching the DiMeras the entire time they were in there and they traced the camera’s transmission signal to Alamainia, where Dimitri just admitted he had been. Dimitri questions if Rafe is insinuating that he was Peter Blake’s accomplice.

Abe’s tutor student Liam brings his son Gage to the hospital where Sarah comes in to check him out. Liam explains that Gage’s throat has been bothering him and he hasn’t been able to get him to eat or drink today. Sarah examines him and Liam asks if she found something wrong.

Sophia brings up to Rachel that Brady is coming to visit her and he’s rich. Rachel argues that she can’t just ask him for a phone. Sophia says they don’t need a phone, just the money to get one. Sophia then asks who said anything about asking. Rachel questions her wanting her to steal from her dad. Sophia calls it more like borrowing. Sophia encourages how much fun it would be to have a phone to play games and watch videos. Sophia adds that it will take her mind off all the things stressing her out and she’d be so much happier. Rachel complains that the phone would be Sophia’s, not hers. Sophia assures that she would share it. Kristen then comes to visit so Rachel runs up to hug her.

The therapist promises Brady that she will keep his concerns about Sophia in mind as they continue to treat Rachel, but the reason she called this meeting is what she thinks is triggering Rachel’s behaviors and that’s that she is desperate for her parents to be reunited. Brady says he’s aware of that and told her that’s not happening. The therapist worries that Rachel is not getting the message and she’s afraid she’s not going to get better until this matter is resolved. Brady questions if she’s telling him that in order for Rachel to get better, he has to get back together with Kristen DiMera. She clarifies that she would never recommend they reconcile purely to fulfill Rachel’s wishes. Brady says that’s good because that’s never going to happen. She needs him to be just as clear with Rachel. She says his number one job is to make sure Rachel and Kristen know there is not even a slight chance of them getting back together.

Sarah tells Liam that she thinks Gage has strep throat, so she will have a nurse come in to check on him and get some medicine to feel better. Liam stops Sarah to make sure this isn’t going to cost anything since times are tough and he can’t afford it. Sarah assures that as advertised, the Tom Horton Free Clinic is free of charge. Liam thanks her as Sarah exits the room.

Gwen asks how Cat is faring with her new reality now that she cannot be with Chad as it must be hard. Cat admits it has been and talks about when Chad was missing. Gwen asks if Cat is just pining over him or if she’s found a new way to pass her time. Cat asks what she means. Gwen remarks that she might have heard she had a private dinner with EJ before his kidnapping. Cat assures there was nothing romantic about it and it was all business. Cat says she has to go but the drinks are on her considering Gwen’s current financial situation. Gwen thanks her but says next time, it’s on her after she puts Dimitri in his place.

Dimitri can’t believe Rafe thinks he had anything to do with the kidnappings, arguing that he is the victim here. Rafe asks if he has any evidence of his kidnapping since his word doesn’t mean much. Dimitri says he was held at a mansion in Alamainia but he doesn’t know the name or the address. Rafe asks if he was alone. Dimitri says there were servants but doesn’t know what he expects. Rafe thinks he’s said enough and asks if he would believe a story like that from a suspect.

Rachel introduces Sophia to Kristen. Rachel claims that Sophia doesn’t talk while Kristen says it’s lovely to meet her. Sophia then exits. Rachel can’t believe Kristen is here and not in handcuffs. Kristen says that means she can give her as many hugs as she can handle. Rachel asks if it’s over. Kristen says she still needs to go to court and get the charges against her taken care of. Rachel declares that Kristen is home now and she doesn’t ever want her to leave again. Kristen says now they need to work on getting Rachel home and tells her how much she missed her. Kristen asks how it’s going here and what the doctors are saying. Rachel says they just keep asking questions about everything that happened and how she feels about it. Rachel adds that she tells them that she didn’t want to hurt anyone, especially Sarah who has always been nice to her. Kristen questions why Rachel gave Sarah the pistachio ice cream when she knew she was allergic if she didn’t want to hurt her.

The therapist explains to Brady that from what they’ve learned in sessions, Rachel feels she can only be happy when her parents are together and that this isn’t the first time that Rachel has acted out in response to a woman being in Brady’s life. Brady says this is definitely the most extreme. She points out that the women in Brady’s life after Kristen are no longer involved, so in Rachel’s mind her behavior is working but she needs to learn that is not the case, actions have consequences and Brady’s personal life is his to decide. She notes that it won’t be easy by any means. Brady agrees, considering recent developments because he has someone in his life now that he cares about a lot and he wants to see where it goes.

Dimitri says if Rafe refuses to look in to his kidnapping then they are done here. Rafe agrees to pas on his statement to the international authorities. Gwen comes home and greets Rafe. Rafe says they will be closing the loop on Dimitri’s impossible connection to Peter, so he’ll be back if there are further questions. Dimitri tells him to call ahead next time. Rafe warns him not to leave town and exits. Gwen then asks Dimitri what that was all about.

Kristen tells Rachel that she’s not mad at her for what she did and is just trying to understand why she did. Kristen asks why Rachel would want to hurt Sarah if she likes her like she says. Rachel explains that seeing Sarah with Brady freaked her out and then she found out about Sarah kidnapping her when she was a baby. Kristen says that was a long time ago and Sarah wasn’t well. Rachel says she was so upset that she felt she needed to punish her but she’s so sorry and is glad Sarah is okay now. Kristen says she is glad too, which Rachel questions.

Brady asks if the therapist thinks his relationship with Sarah is a threat to Rachel’s recovery. She says no and that cutting off his relationship with Sarah would only reinforce that Rachel can dictate his life. Brady talks about other than that one incident, Sarah gets along great with Rachel. She advises Brady to set clearer boundaries. Brady says this thing with Sarah is still too new to introduce in to Rachel’s life. She says they can work together on breaking the news and help Rachel develop strategies to help Rachel cope with moving forward in her own life like Brady is doing with his.

Gwen asks Dimitri about Rafe thinking he was involved in the kidnapping of EJ and his family. Dimitri calls Rafe an idiot. Gwen says that’s one thing they agree on. Gwen talks about all the time Dimitri spent away planning his revenge. Dimitri argues that she has no idea what she’s talking about. Gwen points out that now Dimitri is in EJ’s house, but his plan didn’t go as he hoped as he assumed by now, he’d be the only heir to the DiMera Mansion. Dimitri calls Gwen a kidnapper and repeats that he is the victim, questioning why won’t anyone believe him.

Cat goes to meet Rafe at his home. Rafe tells her that Javi is at work and Gabi is with Philip but they should make this quick to be safe. Cat asks about his visit to Dimitri. Rafe says that Dimitri swears he was held captive at a mansion in Alamainia and that he had no part in the DiMera kidnappings. Rafe says he doesn’t believe a word Dimitri says. Cat tells Rafe that she had drinks with Gwen and swears she had nothing to do with Dimitri’s kidnapping. Rafe says they aren’t dealing with straight shooters here. Cat feels they have to assume Vivian was Peter’s accomplice. Rafe thinks he knows how to get to the bottom of this.

Sarah returns to Liam and Gage, confirming the strep throat diagnosis. Sarah gives Liam the discharge papers with instructions for Gage’s meds. Sarah notices a cut on Liam’s hand and asks what happened to his hand. Liam says it’s nothing while Sarah questions if that’s a knife wound.

Kristen asks Rachel why she would be mad at Sarah when she helped her get better while she was sick and she just let her out of the hospital to come see her. Rachel points out that Sarah was hugging Brady. Brady then arrives, so Rachel runs up to hug him. Brady thought Kristen was still at the hospital. Kristen informs him that she was discharged and is feeling better. Rachel calls it amazing that they are both there. A nurse comes in to tell Rachel it’s dinner time. Brady guesses it’s already time for them to leave. Rachel argues that he just got there and she wants to show them her new drawing. Kristen says they will go while sending Rachel to get ready for dinner. Brady tells Kristen that it’s good to see her on her feet. Brady adds that he had a really productive meeting with one of the doctors and that she’ll probably want to talk to Kristen too. Kristen says she would like that as they exit the room together. Brady left his jacket behind as Rachel sneaks back in and steals the cash from Brady’s wallet. Kristen and Brady come back and tell Rachel about seeing her drawing. The bell then sounds for dinner so Rachel guesses they have to leave. Kristen and Brady promise to come back tomorrow. Kristen hugs Rachel, who says she’s so glad she is feeling better. Brady tells her to have a great day as he and Kristen exit. Rachel pulls out the stolen cash from under her pillow.

Liam claims to Sarah that he cut his hand while slicing carrots and it’s no big deal. Sarah offers to check him out but Liam says it’s fine and he just wants to get to the pharmacy. Sarah insists that he should get checked out since he’s already at the hospital. Liam repeats that it’s fine and thanks her as he exits with Gage.

Rafe tells Cat that Dimitri claims he was locked away in Alamainia while the video from the crypt traced to Alamainia. Rafe declares that he will travel to Alamainia to question Vivian and hopefully find the mansion that Dimitri claims he was kept at. Rafe adds that Cat will stay here and hopes she can find something at the clinic while EJ is away, like what Mark knows and what they are hiding. Cat agrees to try to get what she can out of Mark, but feels she would be of more help if she went with Rafe. Rafe disagrees and argues that as soon as she’s seen with him, their cover would be blown and they’d never find out what’s going on in the lab. Cat worries that it could be dangerous for him to go alone. Rafe then informs her that he never said he was going alone.

Dimitri tells Gwen that he knows it was her that held him captive and stole all his money and he’s going to make her pay for it as he then storms out. Gwen remarks that maybe she’ll just prove that he did kidnap his family members, whether he did it or not.

Sophia returns to Rachel’s room and asks if she’s ready for dinner. Rachel excitedly tells her that she got the money. Sophia is thrilled and calls her a superstar.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, January 13, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Gwen at Cat were at the town square together. She felt like her life was boring since no one wants anything to do with her except for Cat. Cat asked her about Dimitri. Gwen talked to her about her divorce. Cat figured it wasn’t a surprise since she hated him. Gwen told her that Dimitri wanted to take all the money. She worked hard to get the money and keep it safe. Cat wondered where Dimitri was all this time. She laughed and told her that Dimitri accused her of the kidnapping. Cat thought that would be bold if she were the kidnapper. Gwen couldn’t take credit for kidnapping him, but it would help her if she did it. She wanted to change the subject. Rafe went to see Dimitri to talk to him. Dimitri was happy someone was investigating his kidnapping. Rafe told him that he wasn’t there for the kidnapping. Dimitri was furious that he didn’t care that he was held against his will in Alamania. He asked him if he wanted to know who kidnapped him. Rafe knew it was Gwen. They went back and forth about why she kidnapped him. Dimitri wanted him to do something about it. Rafe let him know that the kidnapping happened outside of the U.S. Dimitri demanded to know why he was there. Rafe talked to him about what happened in the crypt. Dimitri wondered if he was trying to say he was Peter’s accomplice. He reminded Rafe that he was the victim. Rafe wondered if he had proof that he was kidnapped. Gwen came back home, and Rafe told him that he would be back with more questions. Dimitri told Gwen about Rafe’s visit. He called Rafe an idiot. He couldn’t understand why no one would believe that he didn’t work with Peter. Dimitri vowed to make Gwen pay for kidnapping him and stealing his money. After he stormed out the room, Gwen was going to prove that he kidnapped his family.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, January 14, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Leo drank his sorrows away at the pub. Chad showed up and saw Leo. He told Chad what happened with Dimitri. Chad wanted to talk things out. After they talked about Leo’s situation, Leo asked Chad about the custody mediation. Instead of answering, Chad took Leo home. Rachel told Sophia that she felt bad about stealing money from her father. Sophia told her about getting over adversity. They went over the plan. Sophia put on a hoodie and left the room. Rachel went to Sophia’s bed. A nurse noticed something was off. Brady talked to Tate about losing his job. He told Tate that he was ready for a change. Brady said he wanted Basic Black to be a legacy for him and Rachel. He suggested that Tate run the company at some point since he was a business major. Tate said he wasn’t interested. Brady understood but he didn’t know who else would do it. When they decided to get pizza, Brady realized his wallet was empty. He thought about Rachel rushing him out of the room. Brady got a call from Bayview and left.

Gwen welcomed Kristen home. She comforted Kristen over Peter and what happened in the crypt. Kristen said she wanted to move on. She said she wanted to move on from the house. Gwen was disappointed not to have one of her friends around. Kristen said she wanted to be away from EJ. She told Gwen that she would stay while EJ was out of town. When Gwen mentioned Statesville, Kristen was upset. Kristen wanted to go to bed. Gwen told her Dimitri was there. Kristen was surprised that he was there. Gwen said Dimitri was lying about the kidnapping and how he was trying to get her money. Kristen said she knew Gwen wouldn’t let him get away with it. Brady wanted to know what was going on with Rachel. He asked her where Sophia was. Rachel said she didn’t know where she was. While she was talking, she let it slip that Sophia could talk. Brady said he knew she stole the money and gave it to Sophia. He demanded to know where Sophia was.

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Days Update Monday, January 12, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Stephanie sits at home with Steve as both work on their laptops. Alex comes in, so Stephanie tells him that she’s working on their engagement announcement for the Spectator. Steve stops her and says he doesn’t think that’s a good idea as it might be dangerous.

At the DiMera Mansion, Leo tells Dimitri how sorry he is about what happened to him and that he was kidnapped and that he willingly believed Dimitri wrote him that letter. Leo adds that most importantly, he’s sorry if Dimitri believes they are getting back together as he loves Javi now and nothing is going to change that. Dimitri then grabs Leo and kisses him. Dimitri then asks how he feels now.

At the hospital, Sarah informs Paulina that Chanel is doing good and ready to go home. Javi offers to give them some privacy so Sarah asks him to stay with Trey while she talks to Paulina which Javi says he’d be glad to do. Sarah assures Paulina that it wasn’t a miscarriage and she’s there if she needs anything. Paulina says they are all so grateful that she has her. Paulina goes back to Javi and guesses she should take Chanel and Trey back home. Paulina reminds Javi that he can come see Trey anytime. Paulina then walks away with Trey. Sarah goes back over to Javi. Javi guesses she heard about the wedding too. Sarah confirms she did and asks how he’s doing. Javi wishes he could tell her but he doesn’t know as Sarah hugs him.

At Titan, Xander tells Brady that he is concerned about his division and says if the numbers don’t approve, he will have no choice but to shut down Basic Black. Brady questions if this is really about his job performance or if it’s about him and Sarah. Xander takes that as Brady admitting there is a him and Sarah. Brady says no but Xander decides he’s changed his mind and tells Brady that he’s fired. Brady calls him a son of a bitch. Maggie then walks in asking what is going on here. Brady reveals that Xander just fired him. Maggie questions why. Brady thinks Xander is under the impression that he’s trying to steal his favorite toy. Xander orders Brady to get out now. Maggie argues that he can’t do that. Xander responds that he can and demands Brady clear out his desk before he calls security. Brady wishes him luck with Titan and declares he’s tired of playing violin on this sinking ship anyway as he storms out. Maggie questions what the hell is wrong with Xander and declares that she can’t stand to look at his face. Maggie rushes out after Brady and tells him this won’t stand and she’ll get his job back. Brady says he doesn’t want her to do that as this is just a sign that he needs to move on. Maggie argues that Basic Black is his father’s legacy. Brady says that’s why he’s been hanging on so long, but it’s not his passion anymore and he can’t work with Xander. Brady thought they could be adults and work past their differences, but it’s not working out and he knows he can’t stay. Maggie says she understands. Brady tries to explain calling Titan a sinking ship. Maggie knows he was just upset. Brady wants Maggie to do everything she can to keep Titan afloat for Victor’s legacy and their family. Maggie assures that she intends to do that. Brady worries about if Xander comes after the rest of his team. Maggie promises to protect them and says Xander won’t fight her on this. Brady guesses he better let everyone know what’s going on and he’ll see her at dinner. Brady asks Maggie to make sure that Basic Black stays alive because it’s important to him and his family, so he wants to see it survive and stay in the family. Maggie is sure they can accommodate that. Maggie gives her word that Basic Black survives as long as Titan is still standing. Brady says that’s all he can ask and thanks her as he walks away.

Alex asks Steve what his problem is with an engagement announcement. Steve says he’s a romantic too but this is a precarious situation. Alex realizes that Steve thinks the letter writing maniac could be driven over the edge by it. Steve worries that if they provoke him, he might do something more dangerous. Stephanie hopes the announcement does push him over the edge and that’s why she wants to send it.

Javi talks to Sarah about remembering when he first brought Trey to the hospital and then taking him home to foster. Javi says before they knew it, he and Leo were both in love with the baby. Sarah says that caring for a baby does something for couples and bonds them in a way that nothing else can. Javi guesses sometimes it’s not enough. Sarah tells Javi that a situation being complicated doesn’t mean it’s irreparable. Javi says he knows and thinks he’s just afraid to hope because he doesn’t know how many more goodbyes he can take. They hug as Javi then walks away.

Leo questions Dimitri kissing him and repeats that he loves Javi. Leo declares he is now leaving. Dimitri stops him and argues that they both felt that. Dimitri says Leo might be confused or angry but reminds him that he gave up his freedom for him. Dimitri thinks he is at least owed an explanation. Leo asks what there is to explain since he thought Dimitri dumped him. Dimitri argues that now he knows he didn’t and he couldn’t imagine being with anyone but him. Dimitri says all he thought about the entire time he was gone was being with him and then he comes back to find Leo fresh off the altar with another man as his husband. Dimitri doesn’t understand how Leo could settle for someone else after everything they had been through. Leo argues that he’s not settling. Dimitri brings up that last time he saw him, he was ready to throw away everything and run away with him. Leo calls that a long time ago. Dimitri recalls when Leo dressed up like a nurse to break him out of the hospital and asks if he would do that for Javi. Leo responds that Javi would never need him to. Dimitri argues that Leo was the only person who ever understood him and loved him. Dimitri says Leo can deny it all he wants, but he believes nothing has changed between them since he left.

Maggie goes back in to the Titan office and asks if Xander is going to fire everyone who comes in his office on a bad day. Maggie asks what he’s thinking, pointing out that Alex is home with Stephanie dealing with her safety while all hands are on deck trying to save this company. Maggie knows Xander is upset about his divorce but asks if he can at least think before he acts. Xander acknowledges that she’s right and decides he’ll take a walk to clear his head. Maggie tells him to go ahead and take the day off while she and Philip handle the shareholders meeting, so Xander exits.

Steve questions Stephanie wanting to provoke her stalker. Alex asks why. Stephanie says she’s had it with tip toeing around this guy and putting their lives on hold. Stephanie complains that she doesn’t feel any more safe so she wants to flush him out so they can catch the guy and be done with this nightmare for good. Steve understands how frustrated she is but says he cannot endorse her taking that risk. Alex agrees with Steve and points out they were going to do a long engagement anyway, so they can hold off on telling the whole world about until they know she’s safe for sure.

Maggie calls Sarah and informs her that Xander just fired Brady. Sarah is shocked and questions if it’s because of Brady missing one meeting to be with Rachel. Maggie thinks it was personal too since things got pretty heated. Sarah asks if it was about her. Maggie says she doesn’t know for sure. Sarah says she’ll go talk to Xander right now but Maggie doesn’t think that’s a good idea for either of them as Xander just got his divorce decree today. Maggie admits she’s concerned about Xander and Brady so she told Xander to take the day off. Sarah asks about Brady. Maggie says he took the firing surprisingly well considering everything he’s going through. Sarah asks if she knows where Brady is now. Maggie thinks he went home. Sarah thanks her and hangs up.

Leo says that maybe nothing has changed for Dimitri, but he’s changed and made substantial progress in working on himself. Dimitri argues that the man he fell in love with was perfect. Leo says that man broke his best friend’s heart and let a woman believe her baby died to take a lawyer’s dirty money. Dimitri says he is that man and that he can’t hide from this. Leo argues that before he got here, he was happy. Dimitri argues that they were happy and will be again. Dimitri says they are cut from the same cloth and they understand each other in a way that Leo and Javi never will. Leo responds that he doesn’t know that and doesn’t know Javi. Leo says he has to go and exits the mansion.

Brady goes home with his box packed from his office. Sarah comes in and tells him that Maggie told her what Xander did and she’s so sorry. Brady says it was bound to happen. Sarah questions what happened. Brady responds that Xander snapped at him, so he snapped back and called him a son of a bitch. Brady knows he shouldn’t have let him get to him but he did. Brady says it’s all just about Xander’s famous temper. Brady thinks it’s a blessing in disguise since he’s been thinking about finding a new direction in his life and he thinks this push will finally help him go out and do it.

Leo goes to Marlena’s and knocks on her door. Xander approaches and questions what he’s doing there. Leo explains that he needs a therapy fix and knocks again, asking if Marlena is inside. Xander decides he’ll come back later but Leo stops him to ask what he’s doing there. Xander admits he was also there to see Marlena. Leo says that ups his sex appeal a thousand percent then apologizes for his old impulse. Leo assures that he’s spoken for which Xander says must be nice. Leo tells Xander that having a therapist would make him very popular on Salem Singles. Xander isn’t sure how much of a selling point it is in his case since he’s a bloody wreck. Leo tells him to join the club. Leo then goes back to knock on Marlena’s door, saying her clients are in crisis out here. Leo guesses no one’s home and asks what they do now.

Stephanie knows Alex and Steve both love her and want to protect her, but she feels like it’s a risk to breathe. Stephanie says she just wants to go on a date with Alex without her father tagging along since she’s engaged and this is the only time she’ll ever be engaged. Stephanie wants to be able to post pictures of Alex’s proposal. Stephanie declares that she’s tired of living this way. Alex says he is too, so Stephanie tells Steve that it’s her life and her decision, so she’s taking back control.

Xander and Leo walk to the Brady Pub as Xander complains that it was stupid to go to Marlena’s without an appointment. Leo says they could try punching pillows to release their anger which Xander says Marlena would approve of. Leo suggests they go grab a drink. Xander doesn’t see why not and points out that it doesn’t have to just be one drink.

Sarah can’t believe Brady is being this zen about it since she’s furious. Brady thinks he’s relieved and says he shouldn’t have been working for Xander anyway as he almost quit before he fired him. Brady admits his one regret is that Basic Black is the company his father started which is making it real hard to walk away from as he wouldn’t want his dad to be disappointed in him.

Javi sits alone in the town square with a coffee. Dimitri approaches and greets him. Javi calls him the ex who popped up just in time to ruin his life. Dimitri knows he’s probably the last person Javi wants to see right now, but he saw him sitting here all alone, so he thought he could use a pick me up.

Steve tells Stephanie that she’s way too much like her mother, tough and strong willed but notes there are times when her fighting spirit has gotten her in to trouble. Stephanie says it’s gotten her out of trouble just as often. Steve guesses there’s no talking her out of this. Alex asks if this is really what Stephanie wants. Stephanie assures she wants them to be together alone again. Alex says he wants that more than anything, so he’s with her. Alex adds that he wants to be even more careful if they are going to draw this guy out. Steve says they will have to do more than that. Steve says the announcement is the start and the bait, but they have to have a trap to catch him. Stephanie says now they’re talking and she’s down for whatever they have to do to end this. Stephanie says the bait is the first step and goes back to her laptop to continue with the engagement announcement but Steve stops her and reveals that he’s found something new and he doesn’t like what he sees…

Sarah encourages Brady that John would’ve been proud of him for following his heart. Sarah says it’s been a really difficult year but Brady showed up for Tate, Rachel, and his whole family which mattered most to John. Sarah says that Brady is John’s legacy and he fought to keep Basic Black. Brady hopes it was enough.

Alex asks what Steve found. Steve explains that he’s been scanning the dark web and found a message board. Steve says that it’s bad so Stephanie asks what it says. Steve says to begin with, the user’s name is “SandsFan69” and he writes “I’m so freaking in love with Anastasia Sands, she’s even more beautiful than the woman in her books” and if only he could get rid of her boyfriend, they could be together. Alex says over his dead body which Steve says seems to be the plan as he reads one of the replies which says not to try to kill him because he’d go to prison and never get the girl. Stephanie argues that it has to be a sick joke. Steve continues reading that “SandsFan” asked why he didn’t think of that and that he’ll have to make sure not to get caught. Steve then shows them that there’s a picture of Alex and Stephanie kissing in the town square. Stephanie realizes it’s from this morning and can’t believe he got close enough to take pictures. Alex points out that would also be close enough to kill.

Leo and Xander sit together for drinks at the Pub. Leo tells him about Dimitri showing up out of the blue after all this time. Leo talks about Dimitri being so attractive and doesn’t know why he’s telling Xander all of this. Xander blames the tequila.

Javi tells Dimitri to go away but Dimitri sits at his table. Javi says if what Dimitri says is true then it’s no one’s fault except the person who kidnapped him which Dimitri insists was Gwen and that he will find the proof. Dimitri mentions Leo coming to see him earlier. Javi reveals that he’s the one who told Leo to go see him becasue he knows Leo still has feelings for him and he needs to deal with them. Dimitri asks if Javi wants to know what happened. Javi says no but then says sure. Dimitri then admits to Javi that he kissed Leo. Javi asks if Leo seemed to like it. Dimitri responds that Leo liked it so much that he kissed him back passionately.

Stephanie tells Alex that she’s so sorry as she never thought he might be the one in danger. Stephanie then admits Steve was right that this guy is a lot scarier than they thought and asks what to do. Steve says he will try to track down the IP address and find out where these messages are coming from. Stephanie thanks him and can’t believe she was about to do something incredibly stupid by sending the engagement announcement to Chad but Alex says no, they are setting the trap and sending the announcement.

Sarah encourages that Brady did the best he could for his father’s company and now he needs to do what’s right for himself. Sarah adds that she’s always there if he needs someone to lean on. Brady appreciates that but feels the universe is conspiring against them. Brady brings up Rachel and says that Rachel loves Sarah but she hasn’t grasped the idea that her parents are not going to be together and he doesn’t want to make things more difficult for her. Brady wants to make sure they are on the same page with this. Sarah says of course they are. Brady says he has to get to Bayview. Brady tells Sarah that he plans to talk to Rachel’s therapist about them. Brady thanks her for everything as he exits.

Leo pours more drinks for he and Xander. Leo tells Xander that he loves Javi but Dimitri’s kiss brought back old memories and now he feels like Javi deserves better than him. Xander says that’s exactly how he feels about Sarah. Leo relates to feeling the same about himself being an uncurable fool. Xander says in his case, he loves Victoria and Sarah so much that he had to walk away. Leo says that’s deep and asks if he regrets walking away. Xander admits that he does every minute of every day and then on days like today, he’s reminded of who he really is and knows he made the right choice.

Javi calls Dimitri a jackass and goes to throw his coffee at him but realizes he already drank it all. Dimitri claims he was just trying to be honest about what happened between he and Leo. Dimitri remarks that he’s sorry that’s not what he wanted to hear. Javi says he already knew what he’d say and thanks him for the honesty. Javi decides there’s no point in talking to him and he has to get back to work, so he walks away.

Stephanie says no way as she thought they were just dealing with an overzealous fan. Alex doesn’t like the idea of living their life looking over their shoulder. Stephanie calls this different because the guy could kill him. Alex says not if they stop him before he can try. Alex declares that if he’s the one in the most danger, it should be his decision. Stephanie doesn’t like this and asks if he’s sure. Alex says he is 100%. Steve says he doesn’t like it either and doesn’t like giving this son of a bitch that much power. Alex feels he will keep upping his game. Steve agrees that they have been playing defense so it might be time to change their strategy. Alex declares it’s time to go on offense and instructs Stephanie to send the engagement announcement because he’s not going to live his life in fear of this guy. Stephanie then goes ahead and sends the announcement.

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Days Short Recap Monday, January 12, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Stephanie was working on the engagement announcement for the Spectator when Steve told her it wouldn’t be a good idea. She said she knew it was dangerous but that was why she wanted to do it. Steve and Alex didn’t like the idea. Stephanie didn’t care. She said she was taking control over her life and there was nothing they could do about it. They decided to flush the stalker out. Steve saw something suspicious on the internet. The stalker posted a message about getting rid of her boyfriend. While they were looking on the message board, they noticed that the stalker posted a picture from that morning that Steve didn’t notice. Dimitri kissed Leo. Leo told him that he loved Javi. When Leo was about to leave, Dimitri said they both felt the kiss. He told Leo that nothing changed between them despite Leo’s denial. Leo said he changed and was happy. Sarah talked to Javi about Leo. When she brought up couples bonding over babies, Javi said it wasn’t enough. Sarah said it would be enough if he weren’t stubborn.

Xander fired Brady. Maggie came in to keep things from getting out of control. She was shocked to hear what Xander did. Brady walked out of the office. Maggie went after him and told him he wasn’t fired. Brady said he was ready to go. Maggie said she would keep Basic Black alive. She went back to Xander’s office to rip into him. Maggie asked if he could think before he acted. While they were talking, Maggie sent Xander home. When Xander left, Maggie called Sarah and told her that Xander fired Brady. Sarah found Brady who told her it was a blessing in disguise. Brady thought it was a relief to have an excuse to move on even though it meant leaving Basic Black. Sarah said Basic Black was John’s legacy. Xander and Leo met at the pub. He told Leo what to do about Dimitri. Leo said Javi deserved better. Xander said that was how he felt about Sarah. He told Leo that he loved Sarah and Victoria too much to stay. While Javi was in the town square, Dimitri showed up to make things worse. Dimitri was shocked when Javi told him that he sent Leo to him. He told Javi that he and Leo kissed. Javi said he was glad to have confirmation that Dimitri was a jerk and walked away from him.

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Days Update Friday, January 9, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Paulina goes to Chanel’s and watches over Trey. Paulina talks about doing so much better now that Theo woke up, but notes it will be a long recovery. Chanel calls it still great news. Chanel then reveals that she also has some news that she hopes Paulina thinks is great too. Chanel announces she is pregnant. Paulina is thrilled and hugs her as she congratulates her.

Johnny sits at the Pub, thinking back to arguing with Chanel about her pregnancy. Xander arrives and comments on Johnny seeming in his own world. Johnny says he’s just a little distracted. Xander says he certainly has enough on his plate which is why he wanted this meeting. Xander brings up Johnny staying at DiMera Enterprises longer than they agreed upon. Johnny confirms they need him at the helm a little bit longer and hopes that’s a not going to be a problem. Xander responds that maybe it is.

Sarah joins Maggie in the living room of the Kiriakis Mansion. Brady then comes in and greets them. Maggie asks if they enjoyed New Year’s Eve. They think back to their kiss. Brady then states that it was nice which Sarah agrees with.

At the DiMera Mansion, Dimitri is having juice in a robe in the living room. Gwen comes in and comments on Dimitri making himself at home. Dimitri argues that it is his home and not her home. Gwen disagrees, reminding him that they are still married which makes her a DiMera-Von Leuschner too. Dimitri says not for long.

Javi sits at home with a bowl of cereal as he looks down at his wedding ring, thinking back to the end of he and Leo’s wedding when they ran in to Dimitri. Leo then shows up at the front door.

Paulina tells Chanel that this is wonderful news and asks why she didn’t tell her that the doctor gave her the clear. Chanel explains that they weren’t trying and it just sort of happened but Sarah says there’s a good chance she can have a healthy pregnancy. Chanel feels it’s some kind of miracle. Paulina agrees and asks what Johnny thinks. Chanel admits that Johnny doesn’t want her to have the baby.

Johnny tells Xander that he had a feeling staying at DiMera could ruffle some feathers. Xander says it’s nothing personal but they agreed to it until Titan and DiMera were officially split. Johnny says these are extenuating circumstances. Xander then informs him that is why Kate, Maggie, and Philip all pushed for their arrangement to continue. Johnny appreciates that and promises to be back at Titan as soon as he can and that he’s only staying at DiMera until Theo recovers. Xander notes they don’t know how long that will take. Johnny points out that Theo is on the mend. Xander says he’s glad to hear that in spite of the competition. Xander adds that there is a clause that Johnny is forbidden from sharing anything Titan related with DiMera which Johnny assures he will not push back on. Xander goes through his bag to show him the clause but his copy of Bonnie Lockhart’s “One Rainy Afternoon” manuscript catches Johnny’s eye.

Brady says he has to get going but Maggie says it’s New Year’s Day and invites him to stay for tea or breakfast. Brady tries to insist but Maggie tells him that he’s been running himself ragged and that he can’t be there for Rachel if he’s not taking care of himself. Sarah tells Brady that when Maggie insists he stay for breakfast, he stays. Brady agrees but then gets a text from Bayview and the director wants to talk to him about Rachel’s progress, but notes it’s at the same time as the Titan shareholders meeting. Maggie tells him that Rachel is more important than the meeting. Brady appreciates that but doesn’t think Xander will since he’s missed quite a bit lately. Maggie is sure Xander understands. Brady responds that maybe he did, before he and Sarah were living under the same roof.

Leo tells Javi that Gwen brought Dimitri back at that exact moment to get back at them to ruin their wedding and get revenge at the same time. Javi responds that she might not get that revenge if it turns out Leo hasn’t moved on from Dimitri. Leo insists that he has and he doesn’t want to be with Dimitri. Leo declares that the person he wants to spend the rest of his life with is Javi.

Paulina questions Chanel saying Johnny doesn’t want the baby. Chanel explains that Johnny doesn’t think it’s worth the risk and that they already have a son so that should be enough. Chanel insists wanting this baby doesn’t mean she loves Trey any less. Paulina says no one doubts that so Chanel questions why Johnny is making her feel guilty for wanting this baby like it’s a betrayal to the one they already have. Chanel declares that if there’s even a chance she can carry the term then she’s going to do it because she wants this baby and no one will stop her from having it.

Xander tells Johnny that Bonnie’s manuscript is going to the recycle bin as he doesn’t intend to read it. Johnny questions why not, pointing out that Stephanie’s book turned things around for the division and maybe Bonnie’s can fit in the same genre. Xander worries that it could cannibalize the one hit they have. Xander tells Johnny that they just don’t have the resources to devote to two writers in the same space, so one Anastasia Sands is enough for the company. Xander gets an alert on his phone and says he has to take this, so he asks Johnny to look over his contract so they are on the same page. Johnny agrees to do so as Xander heads to the back, but Johnny instead then begins to read Bonnie’s manuscript.

Maggie tells Brady that she will handle Xander while he takes care of Rachel. Brady thanks her for understanding. Maggie knows Brady thought about leaving Titan a few months ago because of things being tense with Xander, but she’s relieved and grateful that he agreed to stay. Brady responds that Maggie still being there made all the difference for him. Brady states that it may not be his life’s work but he would never leave without knowing the company would be secure without him. Brady calls Titan his Grandfather’s legacy while Basic Black is his father’s, so he has a very vested interest in making sure both companies survive.

Javi knows Leo believes that he wants to spend the rest of his life with him now, but questions if he’s seen, spoken to, or looked at Dimitri since the wedding. Leo says no because it would be irrelevant and meaningless. Javi disagrees, arguing that they can’t be together until Leo’s feelings for Dimitri are resolved. Leo insists that they are and that he closed the book on his feelings for Dimitri years ago. Javi argues that was when he thought Dimitri left him for another man, but now he knows that never happened, so he can’t pretend that doesn’t change things and asks how could it not. Javi believes that’s why Leo hasn’t seen Dimitri since the wedding. Leo asks what he is saying. Javi feels Leo is afraid that if he sees Dimitri, he could fall in love with him all over again.

Dimitri warns Gwen not to get too comfortable under this roof as he will be retaining an attorney to file for divorce. Gwen questions what money he will be using. Dimitri responds that the Alamanian authorities have opened an investigation in to his kidnapping and Gwen is the sole suspect, so he has petitioned to freeze her access to their joint accounts until the outcome of their investigation. Gwen argues that he can’t do that. Dimitri tells her to watch him.

Paulina understands this is what Chanel wanted her whole life, but Johnny’s not wrong either that she does have a baby that needs her. Chanel insists that she loves Trey and nothing could ever change that, but there are challenges that come with having a child that doesn’t look like you which Johnny doesn’t experience in the same way. Paulina asks if something happened. Chanel responds that right after Thanksgiving, she took Trey to the park and a woman sat next to her. Chanel says they started talking and she thought she met her first mom friend, but then she thought she was Trey’s nanny. Paulina says she’s so sorry. Chanel says carrying her own baby is how she always thought she’d become a mother and she grieved when she thought that was no longer possible, but Johnny is unwilling to understand that. Chanel says she just wants to hear what the doctors have to say while Johnny is treating her like she’s being irresponsible and it’s making her angry when she doesn’t want to be.

Xander returns to Johnny at the Pub and they finish signing their papers. Xander wishes Johnny luck at DiMera, calling him a valued employee and says he looks forward to getting him back at Titan where he belongs. Johnny appreciates him understanding. Xander tells Johnny to take care as he exits the Pub.

Gwen comments on Dimitri playing dirty. Dimitri accuses her of imprisoning him for over a year. Gwen insists that she had nothing to do with that and when the authorities realize that, she will take him to court for every penny she’s worth. Dimitri calls her delusional and arrogant. Dimitri says when he’s through, she will be left with nothing and he will make sure she has to pay back every cent she spent while he was away, with interest.

Leo tells Javi that what he had with Dimitri, he thought was true love but he now knows that he did not love him with his whole heart like he does Javi. Leo declares that he would give up his life for Javi without hesitation and that’s real love which he never had with Dimitri. Leo says he never had this as he kisses Javi.

Brady decides he will head to Titan to make sure his second in command is prepared for the meeting while Sarah says she will get to the hospital. Sarah then gets a text from her attorney that her divorce is final, so her marriage is officially over. Brady guesses she has mixed emotions about it but Sarah says she doesn’t as this is what she wanted, so she is good. Sarah says she gets to go back to being Dr. Sarah Horton. Brady calls her a wonderful and strong woman admired by all. Sarah feels hopeful about what’s to come.

Xander goes to work at Titan. Maggie walks in and questions Stephanie’s book tour being cancelled. Xander assures it wasn’t his decision but Alex felt he had to pull the plug on it because the creepy fan letters Stephanie has been receiving have been getting worse. Xander says he’s sorry she wasn’t kept in the loop and asks if she wants to go over Stephanie’s papers. Xander then comes across his divorce decree on his desk.

Johnny goes home and calls it a nice surprise to see Paulina. Paulina says she just dropped off clothes for the baby. Johnny says his breakfast meeting ended early and asks what they have been talking about. Paulina informs him that Chanel has been telling her about her pregnancy and his feelings about it. Chanel knows they agreed not to tell anyone until they knew more, but she needed to talk to her mom. Johnny says he understands and mentions bringing chowder from the Pub. Paulina reminds Chanel that she’s eating for two but Chanel says she’s not hungry. Chanel then gets a pain and worries that something is wrong.

Gwen says so much for Leo being Dimitri’s one true love. Gwen reminds Dimitri that he said they were so meant to be and went on and on about their love for each other, but if he was really pining for Leo, he’d be out there trying to win him back instead of here counting his money like a greedy old fool. Dimitri responds that Leo will come to him soon enough and he just needs to sit back and wait. Gwen mocks his ego and reminds him that Leo is in love with another man, who he is married to and isn’t a lying, cheating bastard like him. Gwen calls Leo lucky to be rid of him and wishes she could be too.

Leo and Javi kiss until Javi says they shouldn’t be doing this. Leo asks why not since they love each other and that’s not going to change. Javi responds that he can’t trust Leo’s feelings for him until he sees and talks to Dimitri. Leo doesn’t know why he keeps insisting on that. Leo knows his reputation is fickle and shallow but since they’ve been together, he’s been consistent and reliable. Leo feels Javi is looking at him like he’s the old Leo who can’t be trusted, like just because his old flame showed up, he’s going to throw away the best thing to ever happen to him. Leo hopes Javi doesn’t see him that way. Javi knows Leo is a good person and that he has become more consistent and reliable since they’ve been together, but he also knows that what he assumed was true about why his relationship with Dimitri ended was all a lie, which means the love they had for each other could very much still be alive and that’s what he needs to find out. Leo realizes Javi is not going to let this go. Javi says that he has to protect his heart and Leo needs to find out what his heart really wants. Leo then agrees to pack his things but promises he will be back to prove to him that he loves him and no one else.

Johnny and Paulina bring Chanel to the hospital. Johnny blames himself for upsetting Chanel and not being more patient or understanding. Johnny says it’s not about him not wanting the baby but about not wanting to lose Chanel. Johnny says it’s about loving and needing her but she thinks he’s being cold and heartless. Johnny worries about losing the baby. Paulina is sorry for what they are going through. Paulina hugs him and says it’s going to be alright.

Sarah checks on Chanel in the hospital and tells her that the baby appears to be fine and there’s no sign of bleeding. Chanel says it felt so similar to the miscarriage and questions the pain. Sarah suggests it could be stress related and advises her to try to bring the tension down. Chanel asks how she can not be stressed when her husband wishes to end the pregnancy and doesn’t want the baby.

Maggie tells Xander that she’s so sorry. Xander argues that he’s sure she’s thrilled. Maggie insists that she’s not as Xander and Sarah share a child together, so she’s heartbroken that they are ending things. Xander apologizes for snapping at her. Xander says he’s known this was coming for awhile so he will be fine. Maggie is glad to hear that and adds that Brady’s assistant will cover for Brady at the meeting since his daughter needs him. Xander argues that he doesn’t even get to see his daughter. Maggie points out that is nobody’s fault but his own.

Leo goes to the DiMera Mansion and asks Gwen if Dimitri is there. Gwen responds that he’s in the kitchen. Gwen suggests they get a room and preferably not her room this time as she storms out. Dimitri then comes out and tells Leo that he knew he would come.

Brady goes to see Xander at Titan. Xander remarks on him gracing them with his presence as he heard he was skipping the meeting. Brady wanted to make sure he didn’t have any questions about the sales figures he sent over. Xander questions what happened to the holiday sales bump he promised. Brady responds that sales are down across the board and they are hurting everywhere. Xander says every other division has sent him a plan on how to counter that while he’s still waiting on his. Brady says he will send it to him. Xander is concerned about his division and says if the numbers don’t approve, he will have no choice but to shut down Basic Black. Brady questions if this is really about his job performance or if it’s about him and Sarah. Xander takes that as Brady admitting there is a him and Sarah. Brady says no but Xander decides he’s changed his mind and tells Brady that he’s fired.

Johnny checks on Chanel in her hospital room. Chanel tells him that she and the baby are fine, then asks if he’s disappointed. Johnny says of course not. Sarah says she can’t weigh in on the decision Chanel needs to make but she can help them understand the possible risks. Sarah tells them that the likelihood of Chanel’s cancer coming back is slim. Johnny brings up Sarah advising Chanel not to get pregnant again yet. Chanel remarks that she didn’t do so on purpose or by herself. Johnny asks what they can do. Chanel responds that they don’t do anything while she is going to wait and see if the pregnancy is viable and if it is, she’s having the baby.

Javi goes to the hospital and sees Paulina, so he asks if everything is okay with Trey. Paulina informs him that Trey is fine but Chanel is in with the doctor. Javi tells her that if they ever need any help with Trey, he would be happy to help. Paulina calls that very kind and notes that works both ways as she heard about what happened at his wedding and she’s so sorry. Javi thanks her and then sees Trey. Javi tells Trey he thinks about him all the time and he loves him so much.

Gwen walks past the Brady Pub and tries calling EJ but it goes to voicemail. Gwen doesn’t know how much he’s heard but insists she has it all under control and will explain everything to him when he returns.

Dimitri tells Leo that he’s just so glad he came. Leo responds that he’s not staying long and just needed to say something. Dimitri tells him the floor is his. Leo tells Dimitri how sorry he is about what happened to him and that he was kidnapped and that he willingly believed Dimitri wrote him that letter. Leo adds that most importantly, he’s sorry if Dimitri believes they are getting back together as he loves Javi now and nothing is going to change that. Dimitri then grabs Leo and kisses him.

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Days Update Thursday, January 8, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Philip runs in to Belle at the Brady Pub. Belle talks about her new year’s plans of doing hot yoga and stopping in for egg whites. Belle asks if Philip has any new year’s resolutions. Philip responds that he doesn’t officially, but he would like to see his friends more often including her. Belle says she would love that and will hold him to that.

Alex and Stephanie walk through the town square. They talk about Steve tailing them which Alex says he knows is awkward having him around 24/7 but it’s what they agreed to, at least until the freak sending her letters is caught. Stephanie spots Chad and runs up to hug him. Stephanie says she was so worried about him and wanted to call but she knew he’d be spending time with his family. Stephanie asks how the kids are. Chad says they are good and he’s happy to be back with them. Alex adds that he’s glad he’s okay. Chad sees Stephanie’s ring and asks about that. Stephanie reveals that she and Alex got engaged last night. Chad congratulates them and calls that awesome as he hugs them both. Chad offers to put their engagement announcement in the paper if they want which they say they would love. Chad repeats that he’s so happy for them. Stephanie thanks him and says it means aa lot.

Gabi visits Theo in the hospital and brings him snacks. Theo calls it nice of her to come by. Gabi jokes that he is her favorite ex-boss which Theo questions.

At the hospital, Kayla reveals to Kristen that Peter Blake has died. Kristen doesn’t understand since he was breathing on his own, was awake, and was talking to her. Kayla points out that his condition was still critical. Kristen argues that he had a surge of strength and she was sure he was going to fight. Kayla responds that sometimes that will to live isn’t enough. Kayla calls it a miracle that Peter regained consciousness. Kristen blames herself while Kayla reminds her that it was self defense to save her family. Kayla adds that she has ordered an autopsy so they will know the official cause of death.

Belle and Philip sit together at the Pub. Belle asks how his New Year’s Eve was. Philip calls it entirely uneventful as Gabi was at her cousin’s disaster of a wedding, so he stayed in, ordered room service and was in bed by 10. Belle responds that she was also in bed by 9:30 with a book. Philip jokes that they could’ve gone to Small Bar and gotten crazy which Belle points out that Gabi would not have loved.

Theo jokes that whatever the doctors have him on is making him loopy. Gabi encourages him to listen to the doctors and comments that loopy Theo is cute. Theo then jokes that he’s going to tell Philip she said that.

Alex tells Stephanie that it was very cool that Chad congratulated them considering their history which Stephanie calls ancient history. Stephanie confesses that when she was with Chad, she was dying for him to put a ring on her finger but she’s glad he didn’t because then she wouldn’t be here with Alex. Stephanie admits she thought she was ready to get married then but she wasn’t and she was just feeling pressured from so many failed relationships to prove to everyone and herself that she could finally get it right. Stephanie says she’s grown so much since then, personally and professionally, and Alex is a huge part of that. Stephanie states that Alex drew out parts of her that she was afraid to show the world. Stephanie declares that for the first time in her life, she knows that she’s exactly where she’s meant to be with the man she will love for the rest of her life as they hug.

Chad goes to the hospital and asks Kayla how Kristen and Theo are. Kayla responds that they are both improving, but there’s something he needs to know.

Stephanie gets a reminder on her phone about a PR proposal that she needs to send out before the next leg of her book tour. Alex stops her and reveals that she’s not going back on the book tour because he cancelled it.

Philip tells Belle that he’s not worried about Gabi as she knows the past is the past and that he and Belle are way better in the friend zone. Philip suggests in sticking with his resolution that they do something together. Belle brings up going horse riding again. Philip remarks that he’ll have to make sure they haven’t sold the horses. Belle mentions that Brady told her about Titan’s financial struggles. Philip says they are working on it and asks what’s going on with her. Belle admits it’s hard to start a new year without her dad and she’s struggling with the fact that he’s not coming back. Belle says it doesn’t seem real that somebody so full of life is just gone. Philip says he gets it even though they had very different relationships with their dads, but since Victor died, it doesn’t seem real that he’s never going to see him again as he was such a huge presence to everyone in his orbit. Philip talks about John being so kind and supportive, so he can only imagine how hard it’s been for her.

Theo assures Gabi that he was just joking and is not going to tell Philip. Gabi brings up her unkind reaction when she found out Tony named Theo CEO. Theo says she already apologized. Gabi notes that he accepted her apology when not a lot of DiMeras would do that and would be vengeful instead. Gabi calls Theo a true class act and says it’s been such a pleasure getting to know him better. Gabi reminds Theo that she was with him at the Pub right before he disappeared and she worried about never seeing him again. Theo insists that he had to get back because he wants to do that collaboration with Gabi Chic, which Gabi says is definitely going to happen. Gabi adds that she’s really glad he’s alright and she’s so happy for everyone that loves him. Gabi says it must’ve been terrifying in the crypt and of all people, the kidnapper was Peter Blake. Theo still can’t believe a man he never met could hate him so much.

Rafe and Jada meet Kayla at the hospital and say they need to take Peter Blake’s statement. Kayla reveals that won’t be possible because Peter died just awhile ago.

Chad goes to see Kristen in her hospital room and says that Kayla told him. Chad says he’s sorry as in spite of everything Peter did to them, he hopes he’s at peace. Kristen wishes Peter hadn’t woken up. Chad knows she must have mixed emotions. Kristen calls Peter her one true ally in the world. Kristen tells Chad that before he died, Peter told her that he would see her in Hell and she’s sure he’s right. Chad encourages that he didn’t mean it but Kristen assures that he did. Kristen feels she betrayed him in the worst way possible while Chad argues that if anyone betrayed the family, it was Peter. Kristen argues that he wasn’t in his right mind and she could’ve gotten him help. Chad points out that there’s no way to know he would’ve stopped coming after them. Chad declares that Kristen wanted to take Peter off life support and God chose. Chad hopes Peter is at peace and states that they all can be now that they know he’s not going to come after them again. Kristen calls it so strange as she has a feeling that this isn’t how it was supposed to end.

Jada asks Kayla if Peter said anything indicating he had an accomplice. Kayla says he didn’t say anything to her at all. Rafe asks Kayla to walk them through his last moments. Kayla explains that she took Peter off life support and he unexpectedly gave a huge breath, then he continued breathing on his own. Kayla says she left the room to let Kristen sit and talk with Peter, then Kristen came running out and said Peter was awake but then he coded. Kayla mentions that Peter was alone when this happened. Kayla knows they came for answers, so she hopes they can find them.

Gabi tells Theo that she’s so sorry for everything he’s been through. Theo says he knew taking the CEO job would be tough, but he never thought it would put a target on his back. Gabi calls this extreme even for a DiMera, but says if any good came from it, maybe it brought the rest of them closer. Theo jokes about being stuck in a crypt bringing a family together. Jada then comes in and asks Theo how he’s feeling. Theo responds that he’s better. Gabi says they have to redo trivia night when Theo is better. Jada agrees but says for now, she’s on official business and needs to ask Theo some questions. Gabi says they’ll talk soon and hugs Jada as she then exits. Jada first tells Theo that as a cop, she’s pretty much seen it all but when they brought him out of the crypt, it nearly scared her to death. Jada says she’s so grateful that he’s going to be okay.

Belle thanks Philip for his words about John. Belle says it’s been months since John passed away but some days hit harder than others. Philip encourages her to just process those feelings as they come. Belle jokes that he sounds like her mom which Philip takes as a compliment. Philip decides he should get to work and reminds her that they will go horseback riding or something soon as he then exits the Pub.

Stephanie questions Alex as to why he would cancel her book tour. Alex explains that the crazed fan situation has gotten worse and it’s harder to protect her in different states, so he was just thinking about her safety. Stephanie argues that he should’ve talked to her first. Alex brings up Titan Publishing and says he also did it as her boss which upsets Stephanie.

Rafe joins Chad in Kristen’s room and says he’s sorry to interrupt but he needs to have an official conversation with Kristen. Chad tells Kristen to call him if she needs anything as he exits. Rafe tells Kristen that he’s sorry for her loss but he needs to ask questions about what happened in the crypt. Kristen argues that she already gave her statement. Rafe says he’s just wondering if there’s anything that can help with the investigation like if Peter had any accomplices. Kristen says he said nothing and their last conversation was very personal with no help to the authorities so she wants him to leave.

Alex repeats to Stephanie that he is technically her boss while Stephanie argues that she is the author keeping Titan Publishing afloat. Alex says that’s why they need to protect her and that he thought she’d be relieved to not have to travel as she didn’t want to do the book tour in the first place. Stephanie admits that she is but she feels like she’s letting Titan down since they were relying on her to come through and she didn’t. Alex argues that it’s not on her to save the company and says they’ll turn it around with her third book. Stephanie worries that she can’t and if One Stormy Night was it for her and she’s a one hit wonder. Philip walks in to the town square and runs in to Gabi. Philip calls it his lucky day. Gabi responds that it’s hers too as they kiss. Philip guesses they are making up for New Year’s since they had no kiss at midnight. Gabi tells him to just be glad he wasn’t at the wedding. Philip says he couldn’t believe it when she texted him what happened. Gabi says it went from beautiful to heartbreaking and she wishes she could help Javi. Philip points out that Gabi was never a fan of Leo so maybe he dodged a bullet if that’s how she feels. Gabi responds that she actually doesn’t and that she told Rafe that she hopes they work it out and that Leo realizes Javi is the one.

Belle finishes a call as Chad enters the Pub. Belle tells Chad that it’s really good to see him and she’s so glad that he and his family are okay. Chad thanks her and says he’s happy to be back. Belle says she has to go and welcomes him home. Chad stops her and hoped they could talk about how they matched on the dating app. Chad says he’s sorry he didn’t respond and he didn’t want her to think he ignored her. Chad assures he was going to swipe up and now they are here in person. Belle asks if Chad is asking her out on a date.

Jada asks Theo about believing Peter was the kidnapper. Theo recalls demanding Peter emptying his pockets and then rushing him when he didn’t. Theo says he woke up here and remembers Peter threatening to blow them all up with gas which Jada confirms. Theo asks how they got out of the crypt. Jada thinks that’s enough for now but Theo insists that he was there and wants to know what happened. Jada then explains that Kristen made it seem like she was on Peter’s side but then she hit him in the head. Jada declares that Kristen stopped her brother to protect the rest of them. Theo guesses Peter is not in very good shape which Jada confirms. Jada then reveals that Peter has died and she’s sorry to bring him bad news. Theo wonders if it is since on one hand Kristen lost her brother but he was a maniac who tried to murder them, so the world is probably better without him. Theo knows that’s harsh to say about his own uncle but it’s true. Jada states that Theo’s a DiMera, so it’s understandable to have complicated feelings about his family. Theo talks about his mother struggling with that a lot and never wanting him involved, but growing up, they were always good to him. Theo declares that now that he’s older, he’s learning what it’s really like to be a DiMera.

Belle tells Chad that she was honestly surprised to see him on Salem Singles after everything that happened with Cat. Chad explains that Gabi convinced him to try it and admits that Leo helped him with his profile. Belle says she figured she would hold off on reaching out with everything else going on. Chad admits he signed up in hopes that it would help him get over Cat and show Jack and Jennifer that he was moving on. Chad says it’d be like a rebound so it’s probably not fair to ask her out. Belle says it would be and that it would be a rebound for her too. Chad then officially asks Belle on a date, which she says she would like very much.

Philip asks if Gabi is coming around on Leo. Gabi responds that she just wants Javi to be happy and despite trouble following Leo where ever he goes, he makes Javi happy. Philip asks about the Dimitri factor. Gabi says his guess is as good as hers since love is unpredictable. Alex assures Stephanie that she’s not a one hit wonder but an incredibly talented writer with an enormous fanbase. Alex says he believes in her and urges her to believe in herself. Stephanie agrees to try. Alex says he’ll hold her to that and promises to talk to her in advance in regards to any major decisions. Stephanie promises not to jump down his throat. Stephanie jokes about saying I love you to her boss. Alex responds that her boss happens to love her too. They kiss as someone sits nearby in the town square, wearing all black and recording them on their phone.

Rafe tells Kristen that he understands so he will leave her alone. Rafe adds that he does just want to say when he came in, he was expecting her to be like she normally is but he understands she’s been through Hell and suffered unbearable loss, but he’s never seen her this sad. Kristen responds that between having her daughter institutionalized and killing her brother, she has quite a lot to be sad about. Rafe repeats that he understands and obviously it’s not the same, but his sister Arianna died in this hospital too. Rafe says for a long time, he felt guilty for not being there or being able to save her and after many years, he finally realized that her death was not his fault and Peter’s death is not her fault. Kristen calls those nice words but not much comfort for her. Kristen then declares that one thing that would lift her out of this despair is revenge on her brother, EJ. Kristen points out that she and Rafe have that in common as they have good reason to want to punish EJ and they should.

Belle tells Chad that she will text him some ideas for their date and goes over possible ideas. Chad suggests just taking her out to dinner. Belle calls it uninspired but agrees as she then exits the Pub.

Gabi tells Philip that what is predictable is that she will fall in love with someone wrong for her or someone who will break her heart and disappear as she’s never been lucky in love. Philip goes over his love history from his obsession with Chloe in high school in to his adult years and now she’s no longer in his life as their relationship went nowhere. Gabi acknowledges that Philip really loved Chloe. Philip guesses part of him always will which is why it hasn’t been easy moving on until maybe now. Gabi reminds him of when they had lunch and it led to hot sex. Gabi says afterwards, she told him how they connected so naturally and easily. Gabi calls it unexpected how she feels so comfortable with him and feels like she can be herself. Gabi says she’s not used to that but would like to get used to it. Philip feels the same and suggests they start trying to get used to it tonight if she’s free. Gabi says that will work as they kiss.

Jada asks if Theo has any idea when he will go back to work. Theo says not until the neurologist signs off and it could be awhile. Jada asks if he’s sure he wants to go back but Theo doesn’t want to think that hard. Jada promises no more questions. Theo says the drugs he’s on make him loopy but he won’t be loopy on their second date. Jada says they will have it as soon as he’s up for it. Theo jokes that he’s suddenly starting to feel much better.

Kristen talks to Rafe about being sick of EJ getting away with everything and declares it’s time for him to pay. Kristen says they could do it so much faster if they work together. Rafe states that Kristen has been through a lot and needs to rest and look out for herself, her daughter, and to stay out of prison so he will let her rest. Kristen urges Rafe to think about how satisfying it would be to see EJ get what he deserves. Kristen knows Rafe wants to crush EJ as much as she does and suggests they work together to make that happen. Rafe tells Kristen to let him know if she remembers any more details from the crypt. Kristen points out that Rafe didn’t say no to working together.

Alex and Stephanie talk about going home. They joke about Steve being their third wheel. Stephanie suggests they have a closed door meeting at Alex’s office so Steve wouldn’t be in there and would wait until they are done. Alex likes the way she thinks. They kiss as the person in all black walks by filming them on their phone.

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Days Short Recap Friday, January 9, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Paulina went to see Chanel. Chanel told her mother about her pregnancy. Paulina wanted to know why she didn’t tell her that the doctor cleared her to get pregnant. Chanel told her that she wasn’t cleared to get pregnant. She let her mother know that Sarah said there was a chance that she could still have a healthy baby. Paulina wanted to know how Johnny felt about it. Chanel explained to Paulina that Johnny didn’t think it was a good idea for her to have the baby. She also said that he made her feel like she didn’t love Trey enough. Chanel refused to give up on the pregnancy if the specialists said that she could have the baby. She admitted to her mother that there were challenges to having a baby that’s not biologically related. Chanel told her about a woman who thought she was Trey’s nanny. It made her angry that Johnny acted like she was being irresponsible. Xander let Johnny know that he couldn’t keep working for Titan now that he’s working at DiMera Enterprises. Johnny said that he would only be at DiMera Enterprises until Theo was better. Xander was looking forward to him coming back to the company. Johnny went home and saw Paulina and Chanel talking. Paulina told Johnny that Chanel let her know about the pregnancy and how he felt about it. Chanel explained to Johnny why she told her mother about the pregnancy and he understood. Johnny understood why she talked to her mother. Chanel grabbed her stomach and told them something was wrong.

Maggie asked Brady and Sarah about their New Year’s Eve celebration. They thought about the kiss, but they didn’t say anything to Maggie about it. Bayview texted Brady about wanting him to meet with him about Rachel’s progress. He also had a shareholder meeting at Titan. Brady didn’t think Xander would like it if he weren’t there to handle matters concerning the company. Maggie felt like Xander would understand because he knew what he was dealing with. Brady wasn’t sure anymore since he was living with Sarah. Maggie knew things were rough with Xander, but she was grateful he stayed with Titan. Brady didn’t want to leave his father and grandfather’s legacy until it was stabilized. Dimitri and Gwen argued about who had the legal right to stay at the mansion. He blamed her for his kidnapping. Dimitri planned to freeze her access to her accounts pending the outcome of their investigation. Gwen refused to leave the mansion. Dimitri planned to reveal to get his money back and make Gwen pay for what she stole. Smirking, she told him that he cared more about money than Leo because he argued with her instead of chasing down his lover. Dimitri told her that he would get Leo back. Gwen told him that Leo fell in love with someone who wasn’t a liar or a cheater. She felt like Leo was lucky to be rid of him.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, January 8, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Kayla went into Kristen’s room and let her know that she had bad news. She let her know that Peter died. Kristen was confused because she was just talking to him. She felt guilty for what she did to him. Kayla reminded her that she was trying to save her family. She let Kristen know that she ordered an autopsy to find out the cause of death. After she left Kristen’s room, Kayla ran into Chad. She let him know what happened to Peter. Rafe and Jada arrived at the hospital to see Peter. They wanted to get his statement. Kayla let them know that Peter died. She told them that what happened up to the moment he died, but it didn’t lead to any new information. Chad comforted Kristen. He told her that he hoped Peter was at peace despite what he did to them. Kristen wished he didn’t wake up for a moment because it made his death harder. Peter warned her that he would see her in H*ll. She thought that it might be true since she betrayed her brother. Chad told her that Peter was the one who betrayed the family. Rafe went to Kristen’s room to get information from her. He wanted to know what the last thing was that Peter said to her. Kristen told Rafe that it was personal, and she didn’t want him to keep asking her about it. She wanted him to leave. Rafe never seen her so sad before. Kristen said she wanted to get revenge on EJ. She offered to team up with Rafe to take EJ down. Rafe told her to stay out of trouble. She wanted him to think about her offer.

Gabi went to Theo’s hospital room to see him. She couldn’t believe the way she treated him when she found out that he was going to run DiMera Enterprises. Theo reminded her that he forgave her. Jada walked in the room to talk to Theo about what happened in the crypt. He told her what happened while they were in the crypt. Theo wondered how they got out of the crypt so Jada told him that Kristen saved them. Jada told him that Kristen didn’t save Peter because he died. Theo felt bad for Peter, but he was a maniac. He knew his mother didn’t want him to get involved with the DiMeras. The family was always good to him, but he could see what it meant to be a DiMera.

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