Days Short Recap Thursday, February 12, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Chad told Julie that he was taking the kids out of town for a few weeks. They’re going to visit Will and Sonny. Julie was happy for them. While they were talking, Jeremy overheard them. He thought Chad was leaving to get Thomas away from him. Chad promised that he would be back. When Julie left the room, Chad let Jeremy know that he wasn’t the reason why he was leaving. Alex had a Valentine’s Day surprise for Stephanie. They met with Jada at the square. Stephanie wanted him to go with her to Chicago. Alex said he would cancel his plans. Stephanie wanted him to wear a suit. Alex, Stephanie, and Jada went to Chicago. When Alex took off the blindfold, Stephanie asked him to marry her. She said they could have a big wedding later. Johnny and Chanel celebrated their anniversary. They looked at the gifts they got. When they got to EJ’s gift, Chanel wanted to send it back. She yelled at Johnny for feeling bad for EJ after Stefano’s funeral. Johnny gave Chanel her gift. EJ and Cat met at the Bistro. They talked about Stefan and how he never felt like a brother to EJ. While they were talking, EJ wondered who would mourn him if he died. Paulina showed up and ripped into EJ about the problems the hospital had ever since he took over. She said the people in the buildings were complaining about their high power usage. Paulina accused EJ of stealing it. EJ asked what Paulina wanted. Paulina said the city needed to inspect the land. EJ threatened her with harassment charges. Paulina advised him to stop acting up if he wanted to have a relationship with Johnny. Alex and Stephanie got married.

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Days Update Friday, February 6, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Chad joins EJ in the living room of the DiMera Mansion and thanks him for putting Stefano’s memorial together. EJ mentions that Johnny thought Stefano deserved it as Kristen walks in and calls that debatable. Chad asks Kristen how she is holding up. Kristen says she’s been better then informs them that Rafe was there earlier looking for Dimitri and EJ.

Anna and Tony walk through the town square. Anna understands he couldn’t enjoy the rest of their trip after learning that Stefano is truly gone. Tony says he has to be there for his family while Anna says she has to be there for him. Tony says it’s time to get to the mansion so they walk off together.

Johnny prepares for Stefano’s memorial at home until Chanel tells him that she can’t go with him.

Abe gets dressed at home as Paulina hands him his keys. Theo comes in and questions where Abe is going. Abe responds that he’s going to the same place he is, Stefano’s memorial. Theo is shocked and responds that he doesn’t think Abe should do that.

Kayla and Steve are outside the Pub. Steve gets a text from Jada that she’s with Stephanie now and won’t leave until they get back. Kayla asks if he’s sure this is the right plan to set a trap to catch Jeremy. Steve asks what choice they have in order to protect Stephanie, especially since Julie wouldn’t let JJ keep tabs on Jeremy at her place because Julie doesn’t believe Jeremy is the stalker. Kayla admits part of her doesn’t want to believe it either. Steve says if only things could be that simple.

Marlena and Roman sit together at the Brady Pub as Kate takes Marlena’s coffee. Marlena guesses Stefano’s memorial is starting soon. Roman tells Marlena that she can still bail but Marlena feels she needs to be there. Marlena thanks Kate for letting her tag along as she wouldn’t want to be there alone. Roman encourages that she’s not and never will be alone. Marlena hugs Roman as Kate looks on. Kate decides she wants to go ahead early so she’s not late. Roman tells her that Steve and Kayla will be there soon, so they can wait a little longer but Kate says she wants to go alone so she can say goodbye to Stefano on her own. Roman says he understands as Kate exits. Kate runs in to Steve and Kayla outside, so Steve questions where she’s going. Kate says Stefano’s memorial of course. Kayla thought they were all going together. Kate says everyone but her and that she’ll see them there as she walks off.

Abe questions Theo not wanting him to go to Stefano’s memorial. Theo says he wants him there but questions how he can mourn Stefano’s passing when he knows that Abe is privately celebrating it. Paulina assures Theo that neither of them are celebrating Stefano’s passing. Abe says they know Theo loved Stefano and their hearts go out to him, so he just wants to be there for him. Theo says he appreciates that but he’s okay.

Johnny asks if Chanel isn’t feeling well. Chanel clarifies that she feels fine but she couldn’t sleep thinking how awkward it would be for her to be mourning Stefano with his family when she never even met him. Chanel doesn’t like the idea of being in the same room as EJ. Johnny says he gets it and he’s fine.

EJ says he’s used to Rafe harassing him but thought he’d wait until after Stefano’s memorial. Kristen doubts Rafe is that sympathetic given what EJ put him through. Chad asks that they not do this now. EJ argues that Rafe has no proof he did anything to him. Kristen points out that Rafe was eager to pin something on him. Kristen adds that after what EJ put them all through, she hopes Rafe locks him up and throws away the key. Chad asks again for them not to do this and guesses Rafe just has follow up questions about the kidnappings. Kristen responds that she thinks he has a lot more than that. Chad gets that Kristen is upset with EJ over what happened with Rachel. Kristen cuts him off and warns she just lost a brother and disowned another, so she would hate to add his name to that. EJ remarks that he was the victim. Kristen tells him to go to Hell. Chad yells at them to stop and says they are the only ones who know the grief and trauma they are living along with Tony and Theo. EJ adds that they only way they will get through this is as a family.

Johnny tells Chanel that nothing is more important to him than their family, so if skipping the memorial makes things easier for her then it’s a no brainer. Johnny promises he won’t let EJ get to him because Chanel, Trey, and their unborn baby are his family now and nothing will ever change that as they hug.

Marlena tells Roman that Kate seemed a bit upset and suggests he go after her but Roman says he thinks Kate needs to do this on her own and he can’t let Marlena go to the memorial by herself. Kayla and Steve then enter, so Marlena asks to go to the memorial with them. Steve asks if everything is alright since they just saw Kate take off by herself. Roman decides he will head out now then and says he’ll see them at the memorial, so he exits. Kayla asks Marlena what they missed. Marlena thinks feelings are a little raw right now. Steve knows it must be especially hard for Marlena since John isn’t here as he knows it would’ve been satisfying to know he was getting closure after everything Stefano put him through. Marlena recalls a time when John thought that he was a DiMera and he was horrified by the thought, but thankfully it turned out not to be true.

Abe decides if Theo doesn’t want him to go to Stefano’s memorial, he respects that and will stay home. Paulina decides she will head out since Johnny and Chanel want her to watch Trey while they go to the memorial. Paulina offers to give Theo a ride which he says he will appreciate. Theo mentions that he can’t wait to return to his normal life which Abe guesses includes his job at DiMera.

EJ comments that Stefano would be proud of them getting along. Kristen thinks she’s being respectful to warn EJ that he’s on thin ice with the law and could flee the country. Kristen asks if anyone has heard from Dimitri. Chad says he hasn’t but he wasn’t close to Stefano so he’s probably staying out. EJ suggests maybe Rafe found something about his alleged kidnapping in Alamainia. Kristen remembers that Rafe did share the news that Vivian was telling the truth that Stefan really is dead. Kristen remarks that between Peter, Stefan, and Stefano, the funeral industry is making a real killing on the DiMeras. EJ asks if anyone has seen Gwen. Kristen responds that she told her to stay clear of the mansion. EJ remembers he should go check on Susan as he thinks it’s best that she keeps a low profile too. Chad asks why since they agreed the memorial should be open to anyone. EJ responds that she was down earlier and had her private moment with Stefano’s urn but he’s not sure her third eye would go well with everyone. Tony and Anna arrive, so EJ tells them refreshments are in the dining room as he exits. Chad says it’s good to see them. Tony tells Kristen that he’s sorry about Peter as he knows she was faced with an incredibly difficult decision. Kristen hopes Peter is at peace now. Theo arrives and greets Chad and Kristen. Chad says it’s good to see him out of the hospital. Theo hopes Kristen has recovered as well. Kristen says she has physically at least. Theo comments that it all seems civilized and that everyone’s behaving. Kristen tells him to give it time as it will become a madhouse soon enough. Tony and Anna talk about Stefano’s urn as Anna recalls when she carried around an urn thinking Tony had died until she found out he hadn’t.

EJ steps outside of the DiMera Mansion and calls Gwen, leaving a voicemail that he needs to speak with her as soon as Stefano’s memorial is over as Rafe is back in town and has questions for him. EJ warns that Gwen better damn well clue him in on what happened in Alamainia.

Paulina joins Chanel at home to babysit Trey and asks where Johnny is. Chanel informs her that he left for Stefano’s memorial but she’s not going. Paulina asks if everything is okay. Chanel says that it is, but she couldn’t stand the thought of being in the DiMera Mansion or around EJ.

Johnny goes to the DiMera Mansion and greets Kate inside. Johnny says it’s good to see her and he’s glad she came. Kate asks how Chanel is. Johnny says she’s good at home with Trey. Johnny asks if they should head in to the living room but Kate tells him to go ahead as she needs another moment. Johnny heads in where EJ greets him and asks where Chanel is. Johnny responds that she’s at home with Trey which EJ guesses is because she can’t stand being around him. EJ admits he can’t blame her but he’s glad Johnny is there. Johnny says he is too.

Chad steps out of the room to greet Kate and asks how she’s doing. Kate responds that she doesn’t know, but she’s really glad to see him as they hug.

In the living room, Theo asks Johnny how everything is going at DiMera Enterprises. Johnny jokes that it hasn’t gone up in flames yet. Theo says there are plenty of division heads he can rely on while he warms up to things. Johnny doesn’t think he’ll have to much longer since Theo is out of the hospital. Theo confirms that the doctors say he can return to work in a couple of weeks which EJ seems to take note of.

Kate asks Chad what’s wrong with this picture when he’s lost his father but he’s the one comforting her. Chad tells Kate that he’s glad to as she was very important to him. Chad brings up that Kate was there for him when his mother died, so he’ll always be there for her. Roman arrives and greets Kate, so Chad says he’ll see her inside and heads in to the living room. Kate tells Roman that she should go in too but Roman stops her and apologizes about earlier, saying he should’ve realized what she was going through and that it was insensitive of him. Kate says she can manage on her own but Roman says she’ll never have to as long as he’s around and hugs her.

Chanel finishes a call about the Bakery and tells Paulina it’s one fire to put out after another. Paulina encourages Chanel to delegate. Chanel knows she has a lot on her plate right now, but Johnny agreed that he would be home more with Trey as soon as he’s done with his stint as CEO of DiMera. Chanel admits she’s counting the days until Theo goes back to work and Johnny will be done with all things DiMera.

Roman and Kate head in to the living room. Roman and Johnny talk while Kate observes the table of Stefano’s photos. Kate supposes she said everything she needed to say to Stefano while he was alive, so she doesn’t want to dwell on the past but focus on the future. Kate talks about Roman hating that Johnny is working at DiMera, so she’s helping ensure that Johnny’s tenure there is brief but slightly painful. Kate adds that sometimes pain is what helps them grow. Kate says that everything will turn out for the best in the end for Johnny and for Titan which is where she’s loyal to now. Kate says that Titan is her son’s company and Stefano would do the same for one of his sons. Johnny comes over so Kate tells him the table is all his and steps away. Johnny imagines this is a disappointing moment for Stefano since he knows he had every intention of living forever and he kind of wishes he could have. Johnny talks about Stefano always treating him so well and making him feel special. Johnny tells Stefano that he and Chanel adopted a baby and have one more on the way as EJ comes back in to the room and watches from behind Johnny. Johnny wishes Stefano was here for his babies like he was for him. Johnny admits he misses Stefano. Marlena, Steve, and Kayla arrive. EJ tells Marlena that it’s so good of her to join. Marlena responds that regardless of how she felt about Stefano, he was apart of her life and his chapter is now closed but the book is not because their families are connected. EJ agrees and then steps out of the room. Johnny comes over to greet Marlena and says he was about to head out since Chanel is home with Trey. Marlena guesses she came at the wrong time then. Johnny says he’s grateful she came at all as they hug. Steve and Kayla observe Stefano’s urn. Kayla says they are all so used to the Phoenix rising from the ashes but this time is going to be different. Steve states that Stefano is not coming back from this through him or anyone else. Steve flashes back to when Stefano’s essence was planted in his brain. Kayla tells Steve that they are done being haunted by him. Johnny leaves the living room, so EJ questions him leaving so soon. Johnny responds that he said his goodbye to Stefano and isn’t interested in breaking bread with the woman who shot EJ and let him take the fall for it. EJ says he understands and admits he overheard what he said to Stefano, though he didn’t mean to. Johnny questions what he heard. EJ reveals he heard that Chanel is pregnant and calls it fantastic news as he congratulates him. Johnny says they aren’t really telling people since it’s a high risk pregnancy, so they are waiting to spread the word. EJ points out that the baby Chanel is carrying is a DiMera. Johnny argues that the son he already has is a DiMera, but EJ says not by blood. Johnny complains that it makes no difference to them and asks since when is EJ is obsessed with blood. Johnny argues that Stefano made no distinction between Kristen and EJ, so he would be ashamed of EJ for acting like Trey is any less his grandson than the baby they have on the way. Johnny tells EJ to do him a favor and stay the hell away from him and his family as he storms out of the mansion.

Chanel tells Paulina that she can’t wait to feel the baby kick and move. Paulina calls it a wonderful feeling. Paulina points out that when Chanel starts showing, everyone is going to know she’s pregnant obviously. Chanel guesses she means EJ. Chanel tells Paulina that EJ is already trying to use Trey as an excuse to get closer to Johnny again, but Johnny still wants nothing to do with him. Chanel complains that EJ won’t take any responsibility for his actions and thinks she’s the one influencing Johnny to hate him. Chanel wonders what EJ is going to do about it.

Kayla tells Chad that they are relieved his custody situation got resolved. Chad says that things are still a little tense with Jack and Jennifer, but Stefano taught him that family is precious and more important than everything. Roman approaches the urn and tells Stefano that despite him taking his wife, his kids, and his identity, he’s made a good life for himself with Kate. Roman jokes that who would have ever guessed he and Stefano would end up sharing kids and grandkids. Roman adds that they have a new one on the way who he can love and watch grow up. Roman declares that is why despite everything Stefano took from him, he can still say checkmate and that he wins. Afterwards, everyone leaves the living room except for the DiMeras. EJ declares that he was glad they were able to give Stefano the sendoff he deserved as despite his flaws, he loved them all fiercely and they will honor and continue his legacy. EJ vows the house of DiMera will not fall. EJ suggests they head to the dining room for Stefano’s favorite dishes and wine from the cellar. Kristen declares she’s done playing nice with the host, so she will pass. Tony notes that Cook will be disappointed. Kristen tells him to put her a plate in the fridge as she walks out of the mansion. Outside the living room, Roman suggests to Marlena, Steve, Kayla, and Kate that they get ready to go. Steve suggests lunch back at the Pub. Marlena tells them to go ahead as she’d like a minute. Kayla decides she and Steve will wait for her, so Marlena thanks her and heads back inside.

Johnny returns home. Chanel didn’t know he’d be home so soon. Paulina asks how the service went. Johnny guesses it was as nice as it could be and there was no blood shed, but EJ found out Chanel is pregnant which shocks her. Johnny explains that he was talking to Stefano and EJ overheard him, so he’s really sorry. Chanel tells him not to be sorry as EJ was going to find out sooner or later. Johnny adds that it’s not like they give a damn, but EJ is really happy for them.

In a now empty living room, Marlena approaches Stefano’s memorial table and says there’s so many things she’d like to say to him on her behalf and John’s as well. Marlena says she was his obsession and she never quite understood that but she realized it had nothing to do with her, she was just his fantasy and a figment of his imagination. Marlena states that Stefano pulled her in to his web and her life was forever changed. Marlena adds that he took so much from her, but because of him, John came in to her life and gave him the strength and courage to fight the devil himself. Marlena hopes Stefano rests in peace so they’ll never have to see him again. Marlena is not sure they’ll be lucky enough to have Stefano gone forever. The candles on the table then suddenly go out, startling Marlena.

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Y&R Short Recap Friday, February 13, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Eva

Genoa City celebrates Valentine’s Day with most of our favorite couples having romantic dates.

Kyle is drowning his sorrows at the Athletic Club bar when Audra arrives to tell him Claire and Holden went to Los Angeles together. Adam tells Chelsea that Phyllis double-crossed Cane and took Newman Enterprises away from him and transferred it over to herself.

Adam and Chelsea decide to stop talking about business and they give each other Valentine’s cards that say how much they love each other.

Jack and Diane decide to pause their argument until tomorrow and spend a romantic Valentine’s Day at home dancing.

Billy surprised Sally with a romantic dinner at home. Billy tells Sally that Phyllis double-crossed Cane and signed Newman Enterprises over to herself but gave him Chancellor Industries and signed Newman Media over to her. Sally is upset that Billy helped Phyllis double-cross Cane and she doesn’t want to get Newman Media that way. Billy doesn’t feel like Sally is supporting his dreams and he tell me to live that way anymore.

Noah has lunch with Sienna in Los Angeles and after they talk and dance he persuades her to move to Genoa City with him.

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Days Update Thursday, February 5, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Sophia is in her room at Bayview with the phone she bought, looking through Holly’s social media. She starts to comment on a photo of Holly and Tate, writing that she hopes she gets an STI, but deletes it and remarks to herself that Holly deserves something much worse.

Holly and Tate lay in bed together in her dorm room where they kiss until being startled by the door opening.

Brady and Kristen go to Bayview to meet Dr. Gregory. Kristen demands Dr. Gregory bring them Rachel immediately because they want her out of there now.

Rafe returns home from Alamainia. Gabi rushes up and hugs him, thankful that he’s back. Gabi admits she started worrying when she stopped hearing from him. Gabi asks if Vivian told them anything useful. Rafe responds that Vivian had a lot to say and they weren’t sure how much they could believe, but then he got a call from the FBI crime lab on the way home and they confirmed the DNA from Stefan’s grave site and that Stefan is gone.

Sophia watches a video of Holly and Arianna talking about their morning routines where Holly mentions what she takes for skin care. Sophia remarks that she hopes Holly chokes on her supplements.

Arianna apologizes for walking in on Holly and Tate as she thought they agreed to text each other when they need the room. Holly thought she was starting her internship today. Arianna says they agreed to let her leave early. Arianna tells them to stay and she will go, so she hurries out while Tate and Holly laugh together.

Dr. Gregory doesn’t think it’s a good idea for Rachel to be discharged. Kristen complains about Rachel passing notes with Sophia and shows one that she found, arguing that they were supposed to prevent contact between Rachel and Sophia. Dr. Gregory calls it impossible to keep every patient under constant surveillance. Kristen calls that another reason they are taking Rachel out of Bayview, arguing that she’s getting worse and not better. Brady suggests family counseling but Kristen doesn’t want to hear how she should embrace Brady’s new relationship with Sarah.

Gabi tells Rafe that it’s so strange that she now knows for sure that her ex-husband is dead, but she doesn’t have any tears left and just feels kind of numb. Rafe says she’s mourned a lot already, so she has closure now and encourages her not to beat herself up. Rafe adds that there is something else she should know. Rafe says he wasn’t sure he should tell her, but he thinks she should know. Rafe reveals a former servant of Vivian’s said that Stefan did not leave Salem on his own accord and that he was kidnapped by Vivian and taken to Alamainia by force, where he was kept until he died.

Sophia searches the qualities that sororities look for in a good rush candidate and finds a list of do’s and don’ts.

Brady tells Kristen to be reasonable. Kristen says she would be happy to go to therapy sessions if she thought it would help Rachel, but she doesn’t feel she can trust Dr. Gregory anymore. Dr. Gregory asks Brady for his perspective. Brady thinks their private session was very helpful and thanks her. Brady adds that Marlena did agree that taking Rachel out would not be a good idea. Kristen complains that Brady isn’t thinking on his own. Brady admits that there should be more guard rails in place as he was disappointed to hear Sophia got a note to Rachel. Brady thinks any interaction between Sophia and Rachel should stop completely. Rachel then enters the room and asks if they are there to take her home. Dr. Gregory decides to let them have some family time as they clearly have things to discuss, so she exits.

Gabi can’t believe Stefan was a prisoner. Rafe explains that Vivian would not allow him any contact with the outside world to keep him away from Gabi apparently. Gabi argues that they were already divorcing. Rafe guesses Vivian saw the same thing he did, that despite their differences, Gabi and Stefan were in love so maybe Vivian didn’t think the separation would stick or maybe Stefan said he wanted to get back together. Gabi remembers Stefan sending the divorce papers after leaving Salem, right when Javi arrived. Rafe says he has a theory and would like to look at the papers. Gabi guesses he’s thinking that maybe Stefan is not the one who signed the papers.

Dr. Gregory goes to see Sophia and checks on her, noting the nurse said she didn’t eat her breakfast. She asks if Sophia is feeling alright and what’s going on. Sophia hands her a note. Dr. Gregory asks if she’s sure.

Tate and Holly discuss Arianna walking in on them. Tate jokes that it could’ve been a lot worse, but points out that they know now that she isn’t coming back anytime soon, so they kiss until Holly gets a phone call from Dr. Gregory, asking her for a favor. Holly says she will and hangs up. Tate asks if everything is alright with Rachel. Holly informs him that Sophia wanted to apologize in person for trying to slap her. Tate questions Dr. Gregory thinking that’s a good idea. Holly says she made it sound like it could be a turning point in Sophia’s recovery. Tate asks what she will do. Holly guesses she might as well get it over with now. Tate decides he will go with her.

Gabi brings Rafe the divorce papers. They look over Stefan’s signature and say it could be a forgery. Rafe says they need to consider all the possibilities, so he will hand them over to the FBI immediately and assures they will figure this out. Rafe says he’s sorry as he knows they were just talking about closure, but now they are dredging all this up. Gabi says there’s no need to apologize and now that she knows Stefan is definitely gone, she’d like nothing more than for Vivian to go down for taking him away in the first place. Gabi asks Rafe to promise that Vivian will finally be punished for all the pain she caused. Rafe promises to do his damndest to make that happen.

Rachel asks if she’s finally going home. Brady questions Kristen talking about this before making a decision. Rachel complains that she hates when they fight. Kristen tells Rachel that she’s sorry as she has to get home to take care of things. Rachel asks if she can’t just go with her. Kristen wishes she could, but not at this time. Kristen promises that as soon as she can, she will come back to figure it all out. Kristen tells Rachel that she loves her as she then exits. Rachel tells Brady that she doesn’t get why he doesn’t want Kristen to take her home. Brady explains that it’s not what he doesn’t want her to. Tate and Holly then arrive to greet Rachel. Rachel tells Tate that she’s missed him and didn’t know they were coming. Tate explains that he came to see Rachel while Holly is going to see Sophia. Rachel didn’t know they were still friends. Holly explains that her doctor called, so she should probably go see her. Rachel tells Holly to tell Sophia she said hi as Holly exits. Rachel complains that she misses Sophia because she was her only friend here and now they won’t let her see her anymore.

Holly joins Dr. Gregory in Sophia’s room. Holly admits she was a bit surprised to get the call after her last visit. Dr. Gregory says they have decided there will be no physical contact today. She asks Sophia to start, so Sophia hands Holly a note that says she’s so sorry for how she acted as she had a lot of pent up emotions and deeply regrets how she chose to act on them and asks if Holly will forgive her. Holly tells Sophia that she forgives her. Holly continues reading that Sophia wrote she’s also sorry for things before she came to Bayview, but that Holly has a lot to be sorry for too.

Arianna goes home where Gabi asks how her internship was. Arianna says they let her leave early and then she walked in on something she wishes she hadn’t. Arianna notes Gabi’s mood and asks if everything is okay. Gabi informs her that she just got some very sad news as Rafe stopped by to tell her they confirmed Stefan’s death. Arianna says she’s so sorry as they hug.

Holly reads that Sophia wrote that she hate that Holly lied to her about Tate and let her think that Tate liked her when they were together the whole time. Holly apologizes and admits it was an awful thing to do to her best friend. Dr. Gregory calls it very mature of Holly to acknowledge that she hurt Sophia and thinks this has been productive for everyone. She suggests now perhaps they could start moving forward and put the past behind them. Holly says she would like that while Sophia nods and glances over at Holly’s purse.

Gabi tells Arianna that Stefan was a good man and she was hoping this was another one of Vivian’s lies, but it’s not like she was waiting for him to come back to her and she has moved on with Philip, who is a great guy. Gabi declares that she’s not going to be grieving the ghost of her ex-husband while she’s in Miami for Valentine’s Day with Philip. Gabi states that her relationship with Stefan is in the past and that’s where it is going to stay.

Brady reminds Rachel that she’s not allowed to see Sophia anymore for her own good. Rachel complains that it doesn’t feel good and she still hates it here. Brady tells her that she’s allowed to be unhappy and mad, but promises they are doing everything they can to help her. Tate tells her that he and Holly will come visit more often. Rachel questions if Holly will keep visiting Sophia too. Tate says that depends on how their conversation goes because Sophia wanted to apologize for something she did. Rachel asks what she did. Brady says that’s between them.

Dr. Gregory is glad Holly and Sophia can agree and says she said no physical contact, but suggest ending this with a handshake which they do. Sophia then knocks over Holly’s purse causing it to spill out which allows her to steal Holly’s bottle of supplements.

Kristen goes home to the DiMera Mansion where Stefano’s memorial is setup. Kristen toasts to Stefano. Rafe walks in and says he’s sorry to interrupt. Kristen says he’s not and offers him a drink but he declines. Rafe says he’s looking for Dimitri but Kristen says he’s not there and she has no idea where he’s run off to. Kristen asks if he found out who supposedly kidnapped him. Rafe says they are working on it, but it’s important that he speaks with them as well as EJ. Kristen hopes that he’s there to arrest EJ. Rafe says he has nothing to arrest him for yet.

Holly gathers her things and thanks Sophia for the apology as Dr. Gregory walks her out. Holly adds that Rachel told Sophia to tell her hi as she exits. Sophia then calls her a bitch after she’s gone.

Arianna didn’t realize Gabi and Philip were going to Miami, pointing out that is where she walked in on Stefan in bed with Chloe and asks if she’s sure she wants to go back. Gabi says Philip doesn’t know the details and just that she had a terrible experience there, but she told him she wants to go back and make new happy memories with him. Arianna says she’s so proud of her for always being so strong. Gabi says not always, but she has to set a good example for her so that inspires her. Arianna says she inspires her and she loves her so much as they hug.

Kristen tells Rafe that it’s very disappointing and asks if he’s considered her offer to join forces against EJ, feeling they could discover pretty damning evidence if they put their heads together. Rafe asks if EJ is there or not. Kristen calls him no fun and says that EJ is not here as he’s making arrangements for a repository to store Stefano’s ashes in. Kristen questions Rafe’s interest. Rafe explains that he was told that EJ received a get well card from Stefan after his shooting, so he wanted to know if he had it. Kristen doubts it since EJ is not sentimental, especially when it comes to rival siblings. Kristen asks if this has to do with his visit to Alamainia. Rafe asks how she knew about that. Kristen tells him that she heard from Lani since Eli was his travel buddy. Rafe says he can’t comment on an ongoing investigation but he can inform her that the DNA taken from Stefan’s grave was a match, so they have concluded that Vivian was telling the truth about Stefan. Kristen doubts many tears will be shed for Stefano but people can come and either say goodbye or go to Hell, then they will take Stefano’s ashes back to the crypt. Rafe says she doesn’t need to go back there but Kristen says she does as it’s the only way to put all of this behind her once and for all.

Brady, Tate, and Rachel joke together until Holly comes back and says things went well with Sophia. Brady decides to take Rachel to the vending machine to get snacks, so they exit the room. Tate asks Holly how it really went. Holly says it was definitely better than last time and thinks they turned a corner, so maybe things could be better between them now. Holly adds that if it helps Sophia finally move on, it will do them all some good .

Sophia remarks to herself that she’s sorry to ruin Holly’s skin care routine as she replaces Holly’s supplements with her meds and declares that once Holly starts taking these pills, she won’t have a care in the world.

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Days Update Wednesday, February 4, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Gabi goes to Titan, startling Philip who shuts and covers his laptop as he tells Gabi he wasn’t expecting her and asks how she is and if everything is okay. Gabi says that depends on what he doesn’t want her to see.

A man arrives at the DiMera Mansion and informs Gwen that she has been served.

Dimitri remains in Leo’s bed, questioning how long Leo is going to make him wait.

Vivian tells Rafe and Eli that she told them they wouldn’t find anything and asks them to leave, but Rafe responds that they actually did find something. Eli shows her the tablet they found with the signal from the hidden camera found in the crypt. Vivian claims to have never seen it. Eli guesses she’ll say it belongs to a staff member or to Stefan, but Vivian responds that no one has been in that guest room except Dimitri Von Leuschner.

Gabi questions what Philip is hiding. Philip claims it’s nothing important and just work. Gabi brings up hearing that Brady left Basic Black and asks if he’s planning to do something with it to compete with Gabi Chic. Philip says it has nothing to do with that, so Gabi questions what it is then, commenting on how fast he shut his laptop when he saw her. Gabi wants to know what’s so not important that he doesn’t want her to see it. Philip then tells her that he was planning a special Valentine’s Day surprise for her.

Gwen argues that Dimitri is supposed to be served with divorce papers, not her. The man responds that he got two summons to be served at this address. Gwen says she doesn’t want it. The man says no can do and tells her to have a nice day as he exits.

Dimitri remains in Leo’s bed and looks over at a framed photo of Leo and Javi which he puts face down. Dimitri then guesses he was wrong and Leo’s not coming back, so he gets out of the bed.

Eli questions Vivian saying Dimitri was there. Vivian claims he was when Stefan was alive and that her nephew Nicholas brought him to visit. Rafe questions for what reason. Vivian says it seemed to have something to do with Dimitri’s wife stealing his money. Eli questions Vivian not telling Dimitri to leave when she hates him. Vivian argues that her son was dying so she didn’t have the energy to protest. Rafe questions him just leaving his tablet behind. Eli asks if Dimitri left when Stefan died in October. Vivian says that he stayed until she put her foot down and deposited him back to Salem on her jet, pointing out that his clothes are still in the closet. Rafe says they will still need to talk to her staff to corroborate her story. Vivian says they have permission to talk to whoever they want because she’s telling them the truth.

Abe is at home reading a book when Liam shows up at his door. Abe tells Liam to leave because he’s not welcome in his home. Liam pleads with Abe and says he just wants to tell him how bad he feels for his part in Theo’s kidnapping.

Gabi tells Philip that’s so sweet and apologizes for being suspicious. Gabi asks what he’s planning for Valentine’s Day. Philip asks how it would be a surprise if he tells her, then says maybe he should tell her so she doesn’t get her expectations too high and end up disappointed. Gabi assures she won’t be disappointed but says she’s an impatient person so she wants to know now. Philip says that since Gabi was so in to Cornhole, he signed them up for a Valentine’s Day Ring Toss tournament, then says he’s just messing with her which relieves her. Philip then says he was thinking they could go away for the weekend if it’s not too much, too fast. Gabi says she would love that and that she can’t wait for their weekend getaway as she hugs him.

Rafe and Eli finish speaking to the staff members who all confirmed Dimitri was there, including Nicholas Alamain when Eli called him. Rafe questions if it’s really possible that Vivian was telling the truth that she knows nothing about the DiMera kidnappings. Eli says it’s hard to say, but her story checks out and goes over how the DiMeras were rescued on Christmas Eve while Dimitri arrived in Salem a week later so it’s possible he was working with Peter. Rafe points out that Peter is a direct heir and so is Dimitri’s mother, Megan Hathaway. Rafe concludes if all the other DiMeras died in the crypt, Peter gets half the pie and Megan gets half the pie so maybe she gives it to Dimitri. Eli questions if Dimitri is that greedy to get involved in a possible multiple homicide when he already has the Von Leuschner fortune. Rafe points out what he went through to get it and how he’d be happy with half of that. Rafe remarks that some people have all the money in the world and still are not happy.

Gwen complains about being served divorce papers and questions who Dimitri thinks he is.

Dimitri heads home to the DiMera Mansion right as the man is about to leave, so he serves Dimitri with his papers as well. Dimitri reads that Gwen wants $100,000 in spousal support, so he shouts over his dead body.

Abe argues that Liam is only sorry because he got caught. Liam explains that he needed the money and some guy told him all he had to do was stock the DiMera crypt with food and water and move a sarcophagus. Abe questions that not raising any red flags for him. Liam says he just wanted to get paid, but swears that he had no idea what was going on. Abe argues that he had to figure it out eventually since that kidnapping was all over the news. Abe questions how could he. Liam admits he sees now it was really stupid, but at the time it was easy money and all he could think about was providing for his kid. Liam agrees that Abe has every right to hate him and he would understand his anger if someone did that to his kid. Liam knows he caused his family a lot of pain and says he sincerely apologizes for that.

Gabi asks Philip where they are going on their romantic trip. Philip responds that it’s been cold here, so he was thinking somewhere with sun, sand, and sea. Gabi asks if he has any specific destination. Philip suggests the beach haven in Miami but Gabi says she once had a bad experience there. Philip says they can go somewhere else then but Gabi says it would be great to replace those memories with happy new ones with him. Gabi says she’s always wanted to go to the beach haven and to go with someone special on Valentine’s Day. They agree they can’t think of a better way to celebrate as they kiss.

Vivian states that Rafe and Eli have conducted their search and their interviews, so she asks if they are satisfied that she’s telling the truth. Eli guesses they don’t have a choice. Rafe says they’ll be in touch after the forensics evidence from Stefan’s grave. Vivian says there’s no need as she already knows the results. Vivian stops Rafe and brings up that her only surviving son is dating Rafe’s sister. Rafe confirms Philip and Gabi are seeing each other. Vivian says that makes her very unhappy. Rafe says it’s because of what happened between Gabi and Stefan, she should know that Gabi did nothing but love him with her whole heart. Rafe and Eli then exit together.

Dimitri enters the DiMera Mansion to find Gwen was also served with papers.

Liam tells Abe to tell him if there’s anything he can do to make up for what he’s done. Abe says there’s not but he understands the police want him to come down to describe the man who hired him with a sketch artist. Liam assures he will do that and with any luck, it will lead to the guy’s arrest to stop him from hurting anyone else. Liam tells Abe that he’s going down to the station right now. Abe tells him not to play the hero with him because he knows Rafe threatened to arrest him if he doesn’t show up. Liam says he would go either way and acknowledges that Abe’s been good to him, so he owes Abe and Theo at least this much.

Gabi tells Philip that she should let him get back to work. Philip is glad she stopped by, but she said never said why she did. Gabi says she obviously got distracted. Philip asks her what’s going on. Gabi says she has a favor to ask and thought she should do it in person. Gabi tells Philip that she needs him to call Vivian, but Philip says anything but that.

Vivian calls her staff to order champagne.

Gwen tells Dimitri that after his lies and cheating, he has another thing coming. Dimitri reminds Gwen that he could’ve divorced her right away and kept his inheritance, but he didn’t because he felt sorry for her and thought she should enjoy some of the money. Gwen mocks him for being charitable after breaking her heart and having an affair with her best friend which she calls the ultimate betrayal and unforgivable. Dimitri admits that hurting her the way he did was horrible and he had a lot of guilt over it, but he doesn’t regret being true to himself and who he really is. Gwen questions him saying he had guilt in the past. Dimitri responds that any ounce of remorse, pity, or compassion he felt for her is all gone after she robbed him of his freedom, fortune, and the man he loves.

Eli and Rafe walk to a park and talk about forensics backing up Vivian’s claims. Rafe says he knows they have to follow the evidence, but if Dimitri was going to pull off a mass murder, it doesn’t make sense that he would leave all of his stuff behind. Eli points out that Vivian said she kicked him out in a hurry and the staff backed up her claims. Rafe questions if they can trust Vivian’s employees to tell the truth and decides they’ll see what a disgruntled former employee has to say.

Philip questions why Gabi wants him to call Vivian. Gabi reminds him that Rafe and Eli went to Alamainia to confirm Stefan’s death with Vivian but points out that they can’t trust Vivian to give them anything. Gabi points out that Philip and Vivian have such a special relationship so maybe if he asked her about Stefan. Philip knows how much she wants closure and if it were anything else, he’d do it in a heartbeat, but he can’t do this. Gabi questions why not. Philip responds that he and Vivian aren’t on speaking terms. Philip flashes back to Vivian telling Xander about his forgery.

Paulina joins Abe at home. Abe tells her that Theo is sleeping. Paulina says when he wakes up, she brought his favorite ice cream. Abe informs Paulina that Liam was just there which she questions. Abe says that he came to apologize. Paulina angrily complains about Liam coming to their home and hopes Abe kicked him out the door. Abe says he gave him a piece of his mind first and that Liam wanted to know if there was anything he could do to make up for what he did. Paulina suggests a long stint in prison. Abe states that he is first at the police station working with a sketch artist. Paulina tells Abe to put the ice cream in the freezer because she has somewhere to be. Abe tries to stop her but Paulina exits.

Liam works with the sketch artist at the police station and mentions the guy who hired him having a scar on his left cheek. Liam confirms the artist’s drawing is accurate.

The man who hired Liam is a staff member of Vivian’s. He brings Vivian her champagne and asks if Rafe and Eli believed her stories about Dimitri staying there. Vivian responds that she could tell they didn’t want to as she could see their wheels turning. He comments that Gwen was very clever in having Dimitri’s things shipped there. Vivian points out that his tablet will have his fingerprints all over it, so they fell for it hook, line, and sinker. He says it’s unfortunate they found the camera in the crypt while Vivian insists that they won’t be able to link her to it.

Gwen tells Dimitri that she hasn’t known where he’s been or what he’s been up to and she doesn’t care. Dimitri mocks her and says they both know she’s sweating bullets because she’s been cut off and broke. Dimitri says she must be out of her mind in her request for spousal support. Gwen argues that there’s not a judge in the world that won’t give her the money while Dimitri argues that they won’t after they find out that she kidnapped him. Gwen yells at Dimitri to just give her what she deserves and be done with it. Dimitri remarks that she deserved to be locked up in a cell and then he will be done with it. Gwen tells him to stop because he’s making an utter fool of himself. Gwen declares that not one person believes his ridiculous story as she then rips up his divorce papers.

Eli and Rafe wonder if this was another of Vivian’s games and she’s jerking them around. Rafe points out that Bo and Hope tracked this woman down. Lydia Bower, a former staff member of Vivian’s, arrives to meet with them. She tells them that they must promise Vivian will never find out she talked to them because she can be very vindictive. Rafe asks when she was last at Vivian’s estate. She says she was fired a year ago after accidentally breaking a tea set. Rafe and Eli ask what she knows about Dimitri Von Leuschner. She confirms a man was staying against his will but it wasn’t Dimitri, it was Stefan DiMera.

Paulina goes to the police station to confront Liam about being the degenerate ready to have Theo die. Paulina introduces herself as Abe’s wife and says she didn’t trust him from the start. Liam tries to say he apologized but Paulina says it was too late and if it were up to her, she’d have him locked up right now. Liam argues that he’s cooperating and shows her the sketch of the guy who paid him. Liam asks what else she wants from him. Paulina remarks that a pound of flesh would be nice. Paulina asks what happens next. The artist says they will run it through the database since Liam gave a pretty good description, so if he has a criminal record, they will find him.

Vivian’s servant assures that no one in Salem saw him, so no one will be able to track this back to her as he swears that he was careful. Vivian says she doesn’t want any loose ends.

Dimitri tells Gwen that he doesn’t care if anyone believes him and he’s done begging law enforcement to investigate what happened to him. Dimitri declares that he doesn’t need anyone because he was an ISA agent, so he knows exactly what he’s doing. Gwen mocks him and asks if he’s going to go looking for clues. Dimitri responds that he’s going back to Alamainia to the estate he was held at. Gwen says he can’t be serious. Dimitri adds that he will find someone who saw him there, hire an investigator, and pinpoint exactly where the payments were coming from. Dimitri declares that he will devote his every moment to making sure that Gwen pays for what she did to him. Dimitri warns her to start saying goodbyes because her life as she knows it is over as he then storms out of the mansion.

Philip tells Gabi that he and Vivian had a big falling out, so if he calls her then she will think he’s open to communicating with her again which he’s not. Gabi questions what happened that led to him cutting her off completely. Philip says he just had enough of what a crazy toxic bitch she is. Philip calls Vivian like a black cloud of negative energy that he doesn’t need in his life, so he closed that door for good. Gabi says it makes sense and she just wishes Stefan had did the same.

Rafe and Eli question if Lydia is sure Stefan was there. She confirms that he was being held against his will. Rafe asks how this imprisonment worked and if Stefan was restrained. Lydia explains that someone was watching him at all times and he was not allowed any outside contact. Lydia says she felt bad for him. Rafe asks if Stefan was in poor health. She says he seemed fine the last time she saw him about a year ago. Rafe informs her that Stefan passed away a few months ago. She says she’s sorry to hear that as he was such a nice man and she hoped he would make it home to his wife, who he said Vivian hated and wanted to keep them apart. Rafe realizes that Stefan didn’t want to leave Salem or Gabi.

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Y&R Short Recap Thursday, February 12, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Diane and Jack have a big argument because Diane thinks that Nikki came to talk to him to ask him to persuade Billy to talk to Phyllis and persuade her to give Newman Enterprises back to the Newman family. Jack doesn’t think Nikki would ask him to talk to Billy for her and Diane is tired of Jack putting his friendship with Nikki above everything else in his life.

Phyllis and Billy go to Newman Tower where Phyllis transfers Chancellor Industries over to Billy and she makes Newman Media a part of Abbott Communications. Victoria goes to her father’s former office and sees Billy with Pjyllis and figures out that Phyllis gave Billy Chancellor Industries to help her double cross Cane. Victoria is very angry with Billy and tells her that she will tell Johnny and Katie what he is doing and they will never want to see him again. Victoria also tells Billy that she is going to the SEC to tell them whether he and Phyllis did and how they got control of the company illegally.

Billy is worried about losing custody of Johnny and Katie and tells Phyllis that having Chancellor Industries isn’t worth losing his kids! Phyllis tells Billy that Victoria is bluffing and not falling for the bluff.

Adam calls Victor. Victor tells him that he knows that Phyllis and Billy are still at Newman Tower. Adam tells Victor that means that Newman Enterprises will belong to the Newman family again by tonight.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, February 10, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Brady told Marlena and Belle that he found a place that he was moving into in case Rachel got discharged. Marlena was shocked so Brady told her about Kristen’s issues with Bayview. Belle said Rachel’s legal problems could be worse if she didn’t stay in Bayview. She said they had to show the judge that Rachel was getting help and that he and Kristen were committed. Brady said he would talk to Kristen after the memorial. The DiMeras took Stefano’s ashes to the crypt. Kristen ripped into EJ. Theo and Chad stopped them from arguing. The DiMeras wondered if Peter’s actions were because of Stefano or mental illness. Theo wanted to know the truth about Stefano since he only knew him as a good man. The DiMeras talked about the things Stefano has done. Tony said Stefano brushed him off for EJ because he wasn’t a DiMera by blood. They talked about Stefano’s obsession with Marlena and how they all inherited that trait. The DiMeras paid their respect to Stefano. EJ stayed behind when everyone left the crypt. He told Stefano that he will never believe that he is gone. Rolf showed up at the crypt to pay his respect for Stefano. EJ said Stefano would be proud of Rolf. Rolf said his last instruction from Stefano was to give him the ring. Tony suggested to Chad to take the kids away for the holiday after everything that has been going on. Chad said he might do that. Kristen showed up at Marlena’s place with Rachel. When Rachel went to get a cookie, everyone yelled at Kristen. Belle told her about the trouble Rachel could be in. Rolf told EJ the ring was the original one. He told EJ that it was time to continue Stefano’s legacy.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, February 11, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Kristen thought she knew what Rachel needed better than the doctor and Belle did. She had a plan for Rachel’s legal problem. Kristen felt like Rachel needed intense outpatient therapy with Marlena’s approval. Brady let her know that he was going to sue for custody of Rachel. She made veiled threats about that not being a good idea. Kristen felt like it wouldn’t help Rachel. She wanted to move in with Brady and have joint custody. After thinking about the idea, he agreed to the arrangement for a month. Leo had an emergency session with Marlena and talked to her Dimitri’s arrest. She noticed that he was emotional about Dimitri’s arrest. Leo thought that Dimitri was innocent this time. He thought that Dimitri was reacting to being kidnapped. Dimitri wasn’t capable of kidnapping the Dimeras. Leo believed that Gwen was behind the kidnappings. He blamed himself for ruining the wedding because of his feelings for Dimitri. Leo wanted to help Dimitri clear his name.

Rafe interrogated Dimitri when Melinda barged into the room to defend him. She made points about Vivian’s credibility. Rafe had enough evidence to overlook that. Melinda called his bluff. She was able to get Dimitri out on bail. Dimitri was considered a flight risk so he had to wear an ankle monitor. Gwen saw EJ put Stefano’s ring on his finger and talking to his portrait. EJ talked about poignant terms. He raised hi glass when Gwen said he had a strange aura to him. She told him about Dimitri getting arrested. EJ became enraged when he found that out. He said Vivian wouldn’t pay for being the one to kidnap Dimitri and the family. EJ was determined not to let Vivian get away with thinking that she’s immune. He refused to wait for the police. His plan was to handle Vivian the way his father would have done.

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Y&R Short Recap Wednesday, February 11, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

The entire episode is about the search for Mariah and Dominic.

Abby, Devon, Detective Burrow, and Sharon are on the Winters jet on the way to Oklahoma where Mariah and Dominic were last spotted at a convenience store. Detective Burrow gets word from the police that Mariah and Dominic were seen at a diner in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Abby, Devon, and Sharon decide it is best to fly to Albuquerque and have unmarked cars follow Mariah who is driving along route 66 since she plans to take Dominic to Mexico. Devon says once the plane lands they will just meet the police cars along the route Mariah is driving. Detective Burrow talks to the police on the phone to make arrangements with them .

Dominic gets upset with Mariah and tells her that he is tired of playing the hide and seek game and wants to go home to his mommy and Daddy. Mariah gets upset with Dominic and he tells her that she didn’t used to be so mean and he wants to go home. Mariah tries her best to get Dominic to play the hide and seek game but Dominic won’t even look at her.

Sharon is the one who sees Mariah’s car on the road and Dominic is reunited with Abby and Devon. Dominic wonders why the police took Mariah. Devon tells Dominic Mariah is sick and the police took her to the hospital.

Sharon calls Tessa to tell her that Mariah and Dominic are safe. Tessa tells Daniel the good news and says that she cares about Mariah, but she is in love with him and she needs to let go of Mariah.

Detective Burrow is driving Mariah back to Genoa City and he tells Mariah that when they return to Genoa City she will be arrested for kidnapping Dominic.

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Y&R Short Recap Tuesday, February 10, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Detective Burrow tells Abby, Devon, and Sharon that Mariah and Dominic is in Oklahoma so they all decide to go there to see if they can find out more information about where Mariah is going with Dominic. Mariah tells Dominic that she is taking him to another country and they will be there in two days.

Phyllis is upset with Cane because he is going to give Victor Newman Enterprises back to Victor and also destroy the AI program in order to get back his family. Phyllis decides to team up with Billy and promises Billy she will give him Chancellor Industries and give Newman Media to Sally in exchange for his help with her plan. Phyllis asks Billy to go tell Victor that Cane is using the AI program to destroy the rest of Newman Enterprises before he returns it to him.

Phyllis tells Cane she understands the he must rescue his family. Phyllis then starts to have sex with Cane but then she gives him a shot to make him go to sleep. Billy arrives and Phyllis tells him it will only take a few minutes to get on the computer to transfer ownership of Newman Enterprises over to herself. Phyllis assures Billy that she won’t double-cross him and the only people who will suffer are Cane and Victor.

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Days Update Tuesday, February 3, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Rafe and Eli arrive in Alamainia. They talk about the flight over as Eli says if Vivian was responsible for the kidnappings, they will make sure she pays. Rafe adds they’ll also have to make sure there’s not an encore performance.

Leo walks by the Brady Pub, calling Javi and leaving a voicemail. Leo says that Rafe told him his dad’s surgery was a success which he was very happy to hear. Leo says he just wanted to tell Javi that he misses him terribly and is always thinking about him as he then hangs up.

Gwen finishes drinking coffee at the Pub and counts out her change for Roman. Roman tells her not to worry about it and that it’s on the house as she can use it more than him. Gwen thanks him as Roman walks away. Leo then enters and greets Gwen, asking what brings her to the Pub. Leo remarks that Gwen looks like she’s fallen on hard times and asks how she feels about reconsidering his offer.

EJ stands in the living room and looks at the portrait of Stefano. Cat walks in to deliver Stefano’s remains. EJ thanks her and says that’s very kind of her as their hands touch when she hands it over to him.

Eli and Rafe wonder where Vivian is. Rafe refers to her as an old bat as Vivian then comes out and tells them to look no further. Vivian remarks that she doesn’t give a damn about much of anything after losing her sons Stefan and Jake and Stefano’s not here anymore, so she declares that she has nothing left.

Leo tells Gwen that she has to admit it would be great news for both of them if Dimitri was shipped back to Alamainia. Gwen admits she has fallen on hard times so she’s not in position to send a grown man halfway around the world. Gwen states that Dimitri froze her assets, so before she could even consider sending him to Alamainia, she needs to unfreeze those assets.

EJ thanks Cat again. Cat says it was no trouble at all and asks how he is doing. EJ says he’s alright and says he’s grateful for holding down the fort since he will be away from work for another day. Cat says she’s just happy to help. Cat assumes it will be quite an elaborate service. EJ calls it more of a visitation as they’ve decided to open the house to whoever wants to stop in and pay their respects. EJ says they don’t plan on having an officiant and likely couldn’t find one anyway. EJ calls it an opportunity for everyone to say goodbye in their own way. EJ’s mother Susan Banks walks in and says she certainly has something to say. Susan questions what Cat is doing there. EJ tells her that Cat stopped by to drop off Stefano’s urn to spare him from having to go pick it up himself. Susan asks if Cat is expecting a thank you. Cat says she should be getting to work. EJ orders Susan to apologize to Cat. Susan laughs and says she will do no such thing. EJ argues that Cat is sick and tired of being treated like a pariah in town and declares that he will not allow it to go on in this home, adding that Susan should know what the feels like which she reluctantly admits. EJ tells Susan to be nice. Susan then apologizes to Cat for insulting her. Cat repeats that they should get to work and offers her condolences. Susan remarks that the world is a far better place without Stefano DiMera.

Rafe tells Vivian that Stefan’s death came as a shock to them all. Eli says they are incredibly sorry about that. Vivian asks if Lani is sorry about that, blaming her for it happening because if she hadn’t shot Stefan, he wouldn’t have needed a heart transplant from Jake. Rafe says they are aware that his transplanted heart gave out and calls it a tragedy. Eli says they’ll just have to agree to disagree on Lani being to blame. Vivian says facts are facts and questions having the nerve to bring Hope and Bo to suggest she faked her son’s death. Rafe says they understand but they are grateful to her allowing them to exhume Stefan’s grave. Vivian says she just couldn’t stop it but she wanted to put a stop to all these insulting questions.

Leo says it sounds like Gwen is interested in sending Dimitri away, just not yet. Gwen says they both know Dimitri is very charming and easy on the eyes, but also very proficient when he cheats. Gwen suggests Leo stop concocting these schemes to rid himself of his temptation and urges and speak to a professional. Leo responds that he has his urges under control and that he actually does have a therapist. Leo praises Marlena and says Gwen might want to give her a call sometime as h then exits the Pub.

Rafe knows how painful these questions must be for Vivian but hope she can understand why they have to ask them. Eli and Rafe talk about Stefan vanishing from the face of the earth after leaving Salem. Vivian says she’s sorry that her grief stopped them from getting answers but after desecrating his grave, she’s sure they know that he is in fact dead. Rafe says they should be getting the results from the lab soon. Vivian says that’s good as maybe they’ll have the decency to leave her alone so she can mourn in peace.

Leo walks through the town square and checks his phone, hoping Javi will call him back. Dimitri approaches and asks if he’s waiting on a call. Dimitri says Leo is obviously trying to avoid him but it appears fate had other plans.

Cat goes to the Brady Pub and joins Gwen. Gwen says she would buy her breakfast if not for her financial quagmire with Dimitri. Cat tells her not to worry about that. Gwen promises that she will take her to dinner eventually and tells her how much it means to have a friend in town. Gwen asks if Cat ever thought about leaving town and starting over. Cat admits she has and that if her family wasn’t here, she’d leave in a heartbeat.

Susan tells EJ that she hopes she didn’t hurt his feelings by telling Cat that the world is a better place without Stefano. EJ assures that she didn’t think and figures most people would agree with her. Susan knows it still must hurt him to know Stefano is truly gone, so she really is sorry for his loss. EJ thanks her as they hug.

Leo questions Dimitri thinking a run-in in the town square is divine intervention and calls it an unfortunate coincidence. Leo says he has to go do an interview but Dimitri stops him and questions what happened to the Leo he used to know. Leo responds that he put down the thrill seeking and shallowness to become a functional member of society. Dimitri questions how that’s working out for him. Leo says for awhile, he was happier than he’d ever been in his life until Dimitri showed up and threw that all on it’s head.

Rafe apologizes to Vivian for disturbing her period of mourning, but Stefan’s death isn’t the only reason they are here. Vivian questions what else. Rafe says they need to know what she knows about the recent DiMera kidnappings. Vivian responds that she only knows what she read in the news about Peter Blake. Rafe and Eli explain that they don’t believe Peter was working alone and that he partnered with someone who would have financial gain from the DiMera fortune. Vivian blows off the idea of working with Peter and cries that she’d do anything just to have her son back. Rafe questions why Peter said that he spoke to Vivian about the kidnappings. Vivian then admits she spoke with Peter as he was looking for Stefan but she has no idea why. Eli asks if she’s sure because they spoke to Peter and he said it was Vivian’s idea to hold the DiMeras in the crypt. Vivian suggests maybe he got the idea from her prior example, but she would never suggest locking himself in the crypt to watch his captors suffer which she calls his fatal mistake. Rafe says especially since Peter didn’t need to be in the crypt at all and he would just need a hidden camera, which they found in the crypt while sweeping for evidence. Rafe guesses that Vivian already knew that.

Gwen tells Cat that she hasn’t really thought about the perks of being on her own, but her family doesn’t have any interest in her so it doesn’t make a difference. Cat guesses that must really hurt but Gwen says she’s used to it. Gwen notes that being around the DiMeras has put things in perspective and talks about the toxicity, duplicity, and gaslighting. Gwen states that the DiMeras loathe each other, especially Stefano and now they’re all acting like they are mourning while being a bunch of hypocrites.

Susan asks EJ what he’s going to do with Stefan’s urn. EJ says he hasn’t thought that far ahead. Susan argues that the house is for the living and there is a place for the dearly departed DiMeras in the crypt. EJ questions her thinking the crypt should be Stefano’s final resting place. Susan asks if he doesn’t. EJ isn’t sure how he feels about going back there. Susan admits she didn’t think about that. Susan think going to the crypt would help EJ face his fears and tells him to leave the rest to her.

Dimitri guesses Leo hasn’t heard from Javi since he fled. Leo argues that he left to take care of his ailing father and it’s none of his business. Dimitri argues that dodging him at every turn doesn’t seem like the best way for Leo to get rid of his feelings. Dimitri guesses that Leo just doesn’t trust himself alone with him. Leo says that’s so untrue, so Dimitri tells him to prove it by taking him to his room. Leo says he’ll pass. Dimitri argues that Leo hasn’t changed a bit and is afraid. Leo then gives in and declares he’ll prove he’s not afraid to be alone with him right now. Leo then tells Dimitri to come to his room and heads to the Salem Inn.

Rafe tells Vivian that whoever put the hidden camera in the crypt probably thought it wouldn’t be discovered for a long time. Eli says that since Peter’s plan went off the rails, they found it easily. Rafe reveals to Vivian that they traced the signal right to Alamainia. Vivian calls that impossible. Eli asks if she won’t mind if they look around then while Rafe says they’ll also chat with the staff. Vivian tells them that she doesn’t care because she has nothing to hide.

Susan tells EJ that it’s hard to believe that the larger than life Stefano DiMera is in the urn. EJ agrees that it’s hard to wrap your mind around. Susan guesses it’s more dignified than being a pile of bones in the crypt. Susan says she knows that EJ is thinking that she was wrong about Stefano being still alive but argues that she is only halfway through her medium course. Susan tells EJ that she was right on the money since she had said she felt Stefano’s presence was near and it was right on the property in the crypt.

Cat informs Gwen that she just dropped off Stefano’s ashes at the DiMera Mansion and that EJ seemed genuinely grief stricken. Gwen guesses he was probably feeling more self pity. Cat says it sounds like Gwen knows EJ pretty well. Gwen responds that has a decent sense of who he is, but she hasn’t really known him that long. Cat is surprised since they seem pretty close. Gwen questions what that means. Cat says she saw them talking at the Horton Free Clinic Gala and that it seemed pretty intense, so she wondered if Gwen and EJ were involved. Gwen assures they are not and claims they were probably just talking about sports. Cat brings up walking in on them in the mansion yesterday and also thinking it then. Gwen states that she and EJ just live together and that’s all. Gwen brings up that she lived at the DiMera Mansion a few years ago when she first came to Salem in search of her father, Jack and she was so angry at her half-sister Abigail, feeling like she was living the life she deserved, so she wormed her way in to her life to get her revenge. Gwen then reveals she had a one night stand with Chad which shocks Cat. Gwen calls that ancient history and says she’s only living at the DiMera Mansion now is because she needs a roof over her head and she is a DiMera by marriage, plus they have chefs and a staff. Cat asks if Gwen really wants to stay living there now that Dimitri has moved in.

Leo brings Dimitri to his room at the Salem Inn and says he wanted to see his room, so here it is and it’s just like the rest. Dimitri remembers Leo’s old room and says this one has a different ambience. Leo says that’s the tour and now he can see himself out. Dimitri asks what the rush is and suggests they order room service. Leo remarks that he’s full of himself. Dimitri claims it’s hot in the room and removes his shirt to make himself more comfortable.

Rafe and Eli search Vivian’s plaec in Alamainia. Eli feels with all these rooms, it will take forever. Rafe then says maybe not because they just hit paydirt.

Gwen tells Cat that living with Dimitri isn’t ideal but he’s not going to be a problem forever because she has a brilliant plan. Gwen says she will prevail in her divorce, but until then she doesn’t even have money for a bus ticket. Cat asks if she cares to share what her plan is. Gwen decides she shouldn’t because she doesn’t want to jinx it, but when everything is done and settled, Dimitri will go back to where he came from and never return again.

Dimitri removes his shoes while Leo tells him to keep his pants on and leave because he has a job to do. Dimitri says he’s sure Leo can delay his interview and removes his pants as he climbs onto Leo’s bed as Leo complains that he can’t just do that. Leo tells him to cover himself up while Dimitri suggests they make memories of their own on the memory foam bed. Leo demands that Dimitri put his clothes on and go. Dimitri says he’ll go after Leo joins him on the bed to prove he has zero interest in him. Leo decides if Dimitri isn’t going to leave, he will and then exits the room. Dimitri tells himself that Leo will be back.

Roman brings Cat coffee while Gwen gets a call and steps away to answer. Gwen asks Vivian if there’s any updates. Vivian responds that all is going according to plan.

Susan picks up Stefano’s urn and says she can’t believe she was wrong about saying Stefano was alive because she felt his presence and his spirit being very alive. EJ comments that she can’t blame herself as she can’t win them all.

Rafe and Eli find a tablet with the screen on Rafe’s office as Rafe explains that they put the hidden camera they found in the crypt there until they could trace the signal which they have found here.

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Days Update Monday, February 2, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

At the Horton house, Julie enters the living room and tells Jeremy that he’s been prowling around all night, so she suggests he go out and get some air. Jeremy complains that half the town thinks he’s a predatory stalker posting on some dark web forum. Julie insists that Jeremy is not evil and isn’t the stalker. Julie continues to encourage Jeremy to go out for some fresh air, hold his head high and show the world he’s not guilty. Jeremy then agrees to do just that.

Rafe and Gabi are in the town square as Rafe is finishing a call with Javi, saying that’s great news. Rafe hangs up and tells Gabi that their uncle Gabriel’s surgery went well and is expected to make a full recovery. Gabi says it’s such a relief to get some good news. Gabi asks how Javi sounded. Rafe says he was definitely relieved that Gabriel was doing well, but when he asked him to let Leo know, he could tell that Javi was hurting badly.

EJ enters the living room of the DiMera Mansion and asks Gwen if she knows how complicated she’s made their lives by bringing Dimitri back just to torture Leo. Gwen responds that Dimitri is not a problem. EJ argues that she was funding their hospital project with Dimitri’s money and now he’s freezing her out. Gwen tells EJ to relax as the world isn’t ending today. EJ questions why she’s so at peace with this. Gwen then reveals she had a very interesting conversation with Vivian Alamain.

Abe brings Theo home and says it’s wonderful to have him home. Theo is glad to be out of the hospital and off his pain meds. Abe says now that he’s better, there’s something he should know about his Grandfather.

Brady meets Kristen at the Brady Pub and guesses by her text that it didn’t go well with Belle and asks what’s the emergency. Kristen tells Brady that they need to get Rachel out of Bayview now.

Jeremy tells Julie that he will pick up dinner as a walk to the town square will do him good and he will get some air and hold his head up high like she advised. Jeremy exits and then JJ comes downstairs. Julie questions where he’s going in such a hurry. JJ says he can’t talk right now, so Julie questions if he’s tailing Jeremy as JJ then exits.

Gabi tells Rafe that he better be the one to give Leo the message from Javi because it won’t be her. Rafe says it’s not like he wants to deal with it either, but he will respect Javi’s wishes and call Leo later. Rafe says right now, he has to deal with some business before he leaves for Alamainia. Gabi remembers that Rafe is leaving town tonight. Rafe promises to let Gabi know what he finds out about Stefan as soon as he finds out. Gabi hopes that Vivian is lying about Stefan being dead because he’s so young and it would be tragic if he was gone. Gabi adds that she has moved on but she keeps thinking about their last romantic evening together where Stefan recited a poem he wrote about her being everything to him. Gabi wishes she didn’t feel longing to see him one more time. Rafe tells her that part of her can still love someone even though she can’t be with them.

Brady asks Kristen what happened at Bayview. Kristen tells him that Sophia is still writing Rachel notes and complains that this is outrageous. Kristen complains that Dr. Gregory has no business giving Rachel advice, like telling her what to say to the judge at the hearing or that they should live their own lives. Brady guesses Kristen is still upset at Dr. Gregory for saying he could pursue a relationship with Sarah. Kristen repeats that she has no business. Brady then tells Kristen that she doesn’t have to worry because it’s not going to happen thanks to her.

Gwen tells EJ that she is going to use the fact that the camera in the DiMera crypt traces back to Alamainia where Dimitri claims he was held, to frame him, and calls it brilliant. EJ tells her not to pat herself on the back yet. Gwen questions what his problem is. EJ responds that they wouldn’t be in this mess if she hadn’t brought Dimitri back to town. Gwen tells him to relax because when she makes Dimitri look guilty, she will reclaim the fortune. Gwen asks if EJ is on board with the plan or not. EJ points out that Vivian being so willing to help frame Dimitri could mean she was Peter’s accomplice or the true mastermind. Gwen suggests she just really hates the Von Leuschners. EJ warns that anyone and everyone who helped Peter torture his family is going to pay.

Theo comments on Stefano really being gone. Abe says he’s sorry as he knows Theo loved him and that he was always good to him. Theo talks about Stefano never treating him like a kid or talking down to him for being neurodivergent. Theo remembers Stefano holding onto him when Lexie died like he was his last connection to her. Theo feels like now he’s lost that connection too. Abe encourages that he hasn’t lost anything because his mother is in their hearts forever as they hug.

Rafe finds Liam in the town square and informs him that Abe is not coming and that he’s in his place. Liam responds that he didn’t know Abe was sending somebody else. Rafe introduces himself as an FBI agent and asks if there’s a problem. Liam says no, so Rafe suggests they go somewhere to talk and they walk off together. Jeremy then passes through the town square and to the Bistro. JJ follows after him and hides while keeping an eye out until Gabi approaches JJ and greets him which startles him a bit. Gabi asks if she’s keeping him from something since he’s keeping his eyes on the Bistro. Gabi asks if he’s meeting someone. JJ says no but Gabi thinks that he’s going on a date.

Gwen tells EJ that she thinks they will stumble upon Peter’s real accomplice whether it’s Vivian or someone else. EJ appreciates her concept and asks what’s next. Gwen responds that she needs to divorce Dimitri immediately. EJ thought Dimitri already set that in motion. Gwen says that Dimitri has blocked of all her accounts, so she needs full control which means she needs EJ to represent her.

Kristen guesses Sarah came running to tattle on her. Brady asks if Kristen threatened her not to get involved with him. Kristen remarks that Sarah would know if she threatened her. Brady demands to know what she said to Sarah. Kristen responds that she simply pointed out that it would be selfish for them to start something while Rachel is struggling with what she’s going through. Brady argues that Rachel’s issues have nothing to do with his relationship with Sarah. Kristen asks if he doesn’t think it bothers her that he’s moved on with a woman who kidnapped her when she was a baby. Brady decides he’s not rehashing this with her and he’s not changing his mind that Rachel needs to stay in Bayview. Kristen reminds Brady that she has full custody of Rachel and declares that she has decided Rachel is coming home.

EJ tells Gwen that he can’t represent her because Dimitri is his nephew. Gwen remarks that if she can’t afford a lawyer, she won’t get her money back and their project at the hospital will just fall apart. EJ then stops her and agrees to find someone else to represent her while he advises behind the scenes. EJ asks her to give him some time as they are in a critical moment with Dr. Rolf in the lab and his actual job running the hospital along with a ghastly memorial service for Stefano tomorrow. Gwen questions why even do it. EJ explains that it was Johnny’s idea and at least now Stefano will have a dignified resting place amongst family.

JJ assures Gabi that he’s not meeting anyone but Gabi doesn’t believe him and says it’s okay as she can accept him going on dates. JJ assumes things are going well with her and Philip. Gabi confirms but feels there has to be a reason he asked. JJ starts to explain how Theo made it seem when they were at the hospital but stops and says nevermind. Gabi asks what Theo said. JJ responds that he just made it seem like they might not last but says he shouldn’t have said anything. Gabi says she’s glad he did and asks about Theo being discharged from the hospital. JJ confirms he’s at home now with Abe and Paulina. Gabi says she has to go and tells JJ that she’ll see him around as she walks away. JJ turns and pulls his phone out when Jeremy comes out of the Bistro. JJ then follows him back out of the town square.

Rafe brings Liam to the park and tells him that they have reason to believe he was involved in the kidnappings in the DiMera Crypt, adding that they have receipts from the payments Peter Blake made to him and that he was involved from the beginning. Liam claims to have no idea what he’s talking about. Rafe says the payment tells them that he’s just a little fish and the FBI want the big fish that call the shots. Rafe asks if Liam wants to help them reel in the big fish or stay on the hook.

Brady can’t believe Kristen is pulling this card. Kristen argues that she gave him physical custody of Rachel while she was locked up and now that she’s not, that deal is null and void. Brady complains that she still can’t make this decision unilaterally. Kristen responds that according to the law, she can. Kristen says she’s not asking for permission to take Rachel out of Bayview and is just informing him that it’s what she’s going to do. Kristen states that Brady can either support her or get the hell out of her way. Brady warns that he could fight her. Kristen asks if he’s going to pull a gun on her again. Brady says the mistake he made last time was stooping to her level. Kristen argues that she just wants to rescue her child from a place she clearly doesn’t belong. Brady asks if Kristen is just going to move Rachel in to the DiMera Mansion where she shot her uncle. Kristen reveals she’s no longer at the DiMera Mansion, she’s at the Salem Inn. Brady questions sharing a hotel room being her idea of stability. Kristen then decides that Rachel can stay with Brady for now if he gets his own place.

Abe tells Theo that they should go through the old photo albums and videos one day. Gabi then shows up at the door to see Theo. Gabi says she heard he’d been released so she thought she’d come check up on him. Abe decides he’ll leave them to catch up and go pick up dinner. Abe invites Gabi to join them but she says she can’t stay. Abe tells Theo to let him know if he needs anything as he exits. Theo tells Gabi that she didn’t have to come all the way over. Gabi responds that she did but not just to check up on him. Gabi then questions what the hell he said to JJ about her relationship with Philip.

Liam admits to Rafe that he was paid to do a job but he doesn’t know anything about the kidnappings or even who hired him. Rafe asks where he met him. Liam says he was at a dive bar and a guy sat next to him, asking if he wanted to make some extra cash. Rafe questions what he did. Liam reveals he stocked the crypt with food and water, then moving the sarcophagus out of there. Liam says that he was told it was empty, but it opened and some bones fell out and he didn’t know what to do so he buried them in the crypt. Liam figured it was the least he could do for whoever the poor bastard was. Rafe reveals to him that it was the infamous Stefano DiMera.

Gwen tells EJ that something good did come out of his time in the crypt in finding Stefano’s remains and bonding him closer to his family. EJ supposes it did but says they aren’t planning any family camping trips anytime soon. Gwen asks if it includes Kristen but EJ says she still wants to see him dead. Gwen asks why Kristen hates EJ so much. EJ responds that their relationship has always been complicated with ups and downs and this happens to be a down period. Gwen asks why but EJ questions why she even cares and tells her to mind her own damn business.

JJ and Jeremy return home. Jeremy invites JJ to join he and Julie for the dinner he just picked up from the Bistro which JJ says sounds good. JJ asks how Jeremy is doing and if he’s decided where he’s going after he leaves Salem. Jeremy responds that he hasn’t decided yet but plans to start at his dad’s in New York. Jeremy acknowledges that the cops told him to stay put but according to the district attorney, they have no power to hold him. JJ says that’s true but points out that leaving town isn’t the best strategy for looking innocent as Julie then returns to the room. Julie tells JJ that Jeremy doesn’t have to prove his innocence as that’s not the way the law works. Julie declares that she’s very disappointed in JJ for acting like a double agent against his own cousin.

Paulina joins Abe in the town square. Paulina asks if he’s heard back from Rafe about Liam. Abe says not yet but he’s dreading it. Paulina admits she always had a feeling that Liam was no good. Abe is struggling that Liam might have been involved in Theo’s kidnapping. Paulina says she’s sorry as she knows how much he wanted to help Liam, but if this is true then he was too far gone for anyone to help. Paulina promises that if Liam was involved in the kidnapping, she will make sure he gets what’s coming to him.

Liam starts to panic about the DiMeras knowing what he did with Stefano’s bones. Rafe isn’t sure the DiMeras will be his problem as much as Abe. Rafe questions it never occurring to Liam that when the DiMeras went missing, it could involve the crypt he was stocking with food and water. Liam responds that he doesn’t follow the news so he never heard about it. Liam says the guy who hired him just said the crypt was being prepped for disaster and warned him not to say anything. Rafe brings up that Theo and the rest could’ve died. Liam admits he feels horrible about it but worried if he came forward, he could be killed. Liam says that his son already lost his mother, so he couldn’t take the chance of him losing him too.

Theo tells Gabi that he was on a lot of pain meds during his conversation with JJ so it’s all kind of blurry. Gabi informs him that JJ said Theo told him that he didn’t think she and Philip would last. Theo apologizes and says he should’ve never said that. Gabi agrees and asks if he told him the reason is because she told Tony about Philip’s fraud and blew up the Titan-DiMera merger. Theo assures he didn’t say anything about any of that. Theo tells Gabi that he’s sorry and asks her to forgive him.

Kristen asks Brady what his answer is. Brady accuses her of blackmailing him in to getting his own place. Kristen repeats that their daughter would stay with him, so he should be thanking her. Brady argues that she just doesn’t want him anywhere near Sarah. Kristen responds that she wants their daughter out of Bayview and in to a stable home. Kristen asks if Brady will make the right decision for Rachel or if she has to do this on her own.

EJ apologizes to Gwen for snapping on her. Gwen tells him that she accepts his apology, especially because she knows he’s dealing with a lot right now. EJ tells her not to pretend she cares. Gwen says from what she knows of him, he tends to bottle things up a bit and then they come out in the most non productive ways. EJ insists that he’s fine. Gwen disagrees and says it’s okay to admit he’s a wreck. Gwen adds that she needs him at his best if they are going to succeed at all of their endeavors. Gwen asks EJ to tell her how he’s feeling about his father and whatever else.

Jeremy questions if JJ has been following him. JJ responds that he’s just doing his job since Stephanie is his cousin. Jeremy says he gets it as Jada showed him the messages the stalker posted online. JJ brings up that he’s tried to kill Alex twice now. Julie calls it all horrible but argues that he can’t believe Jeremy is capable of that. JJ says he certainly doesn’t want that. Jeremy tells JJ if he’ll finally be sure, have at it. Julie complains that JJ is invading Jeremy’s privacy and the peace of her home, so she won’t stand for it.

Gabi tells Theo that as far as excuses go, using a brain injury is pretty shameless. Theo says it’s a brain injury and pain meds. Gabi guesses he’s off the hook, but questions how her relationship with Philip even came up. Theo recalls JJ saying he was sorry that he blew his chance with her and then part of his brain knew he shouldn’t say anything, but it came out anyway. Theo says now that he is of sound mind, her secrets are safe with him and he won’t say anything else. Gabi calls him the most trustworthy person she knows and says when he’s fully recovered, they can have a do over at trivia night on a double date with Philip and Jada.

Paulina tells Abe that it’s hard for her to reconcile the Stefano she’s always heard of with the man who was so kind to Theo. Abe admits that there were many sides to Stefano and that Theo had such tender feelings for him. Abe states that Stefano was responsible for Lexie’s death, so he wonders if Theo deserves to know. Paulina argues that it would only hurt Theo, so she suggests letting Theo hold onto the positive memory of his grandfather and his mother. Abe supposes that’s the right thing to do.

Rafe tells Liam that he’s sorry about his son’s mother but that doesn’t excuse anything. Liam asks if he’s going to haul him in. Rafe says that depends on if he gives him something. Rafe asks Liam to describe the guy who hired him. Liam says he was just some guy but remembers he had a mark on his right cheek. Rafe says that’s good and now they are getting somewhere. Rafe says they will set him up with a sketch artist tomorrow, but warns that if he doesn’t show up, there will be a warrant for his arrest.

Brady tells Kristen that he knows she’s trying to bait him but he refuses to let their issues prevent him from doing what he believes is right for their little girl. Kristen asks if that’s a yes. Brady admits he’s concerned about Sophia’s influence, so he suggests they go talk to Dr. Gregory to get the full picture on this. Kristen says that’s great and they can go tomorrow before Stefano’s memorial. Brady asks if she’s sure she’d be up for that. Kristen responds that Rachel is all that matters to her. Brady agrees but suggests leaving Rachel out of it until they have made a decision together.

Julie tells JJ not to try to explain it to her and warns that if Jada doesn’t back off, she will sure the Salem police department for harassment. Jeremy argues that he’s being setup by someone who knows his past and is using it to cover their tracks. Julie questions why he’s not tracking the real perpetrator, instead of torturing his cousin. JJ questions why Julie is so convinced that Jeremy is innocent and argues that she’s just blindly defending him because he’s family, like she did with his cousin Nick Fallon. Julie calls that a totally unnecessary low blow and inaccurate. Julie argues that she has rules and if JJ can’t obey them, he doesn’t have to live under her roof.

EJ appreciates Gwen’s offer but says he has no interest in talking to her about his problems. Gwen asks if he’s sure because she did take a psychology class and graduated with top honors which they joke about. Gwen says she has been told that she’s good to talk to and assures EJ that she is on his side. EJ says that’s good to know. EJ adds that even if he was inclined to open up to her, he’s not sure he knows what he’s feeling about the confirmation of his father’s death after living his entire life believing that he’d always be around and that the Phoenix would always rise from the ashes. EJ looks towards the portrait of Stefano above the mantle and declares that he finally has to accept that he was mortal after all, like the rest of them.

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Days Short Recap Friday, February 6, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Theo told Abe that he didn’t want him at Stefano’s memorial if he was going to be celebrating. Chanel told Johnny that she and Trey weren’t going to the memorial. She said she didn’t get any sleep worry about the memorial. Paulina showed up to see Chanel. She told Paulina that she wasn’t going to the memorial. Chanel said she wanted Theo to get better soon so Johnny could be home more. Paulina brought up Chanel’s pregnancy which led to them talking about EJ finding out about it. Marlena told Roman that she was going to Stefano’s memorial. Roman told Marlena that she was never alone and hugged her. Kate watched them hugging and was upset. She said she was going to the memorial by herself. Chad and Kristen showed up at the memorial. Kristen told EJ that Rafe was looking for him and said she hoped they locked him up. Chad stop them from arguing. EJ and Kristen stopped arguing. She told them that Stefan was dead. The rest of the guests arrived at the memorial. Roman apologized to Kate for being insensitive to her feelings. He said she wouldn’t have to deal with anything alone. Kate went to talk to Stefano and let him know that she was looking into the future. After Kate finished talking to Stefano, Johnny talked to him. He told Stefano that Chanel was pregnant. EJ confronted Johnny and told him he heard him say Chanel was pregnant. He told Johnny that he was happy that the baby was going to be a DiMera. Johnny was furious with EJ and told him to stay away from him. Everyone else went to see Stefano. Johnny told Chanel that EJ found out about the baby. When everyone else left the room, EJ said they would honor Stefano’s legacy. Marlena talked to Stefano and was glad they would be rid of him forever. While she was talking to him, a candle blew out.

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Days Short Recap Thursday, February 5, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Kristen and Brady were in Rachel’s room waiting for Dr. Gregory to come in. She wanted the doctor to release Rachel. Kristen showed Brady Sophia’s note. Kristen was upset that the doctor encouraged Brady and Sarah’s relationship. Brady told Dr. Gregory that he wanted there to be boundaries when it comes to Sophia. When Rachel came in her room, she asked if they were there to take her home. Dr. Gregory left the room. Brady and Kristen got into an argument which led to Rachel yelling at them to stop. Kristen told Rachel that she had to stay at the hospital before she left the room. Sophia looked at Holly’s social media. While she was watching Holly’s social media, she formulated a plan to get revenge on her. Dr. Gregory showed up in Sophia’s room. Sophia gave her a note saying she wanted to apologize to Holly. Dr. Gregory called Holly so she could see Sophia. Holly and Tate went to the hospital. Tate went to see Rachel while she was yelling at Brady about him not letting her mother take her home. Holly went to see Sophia. Rachel was upset that she wouldn’t be able to see Sophia. Tate promised to bring Holly with him when he visited her again.

Holly was upset when she saw Sophia. Sophia gave Holly a note saying she apologized to her and asked for forgiveness. Holly said she forgave her. Things took a turn when Holly read in the letter that Sophia blamed her for being with Tate and for making her think she had a shot with him. Holly apologized to Sophia. When Sophia made Holly knock over her bag, she put supplements in it. Rafe said the DNA tests proved that Stefan was dead. He told her that Stefan didn’t want to leave her. Rafe said Vivian kidnapped Stefan to keep Gabi away from him. Gabi was shaken over the idea that Stefan probably didn’t sign the divorce papers. Rafe wanted to get the divorce papers analyzed. He went to the DiMera mansion. He said Kristen toasting to Stefano’s urn. Rafe asked if Dimitri or EJ were there. Kristen asked if he wanted to work together. Rafe said he wanted to see EJ’s get well card from Stefan. When Rafe told her that Stefan was dead, Kristen couldn’t care less. Sophia took out Holly’s supplements and replaced them with hers.

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Days Update Friday, January 30, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Gwen enters the living room of the DiMera Mansion, but sees Dimitri and says she will take her tea elsewhere. Dimitri mocks that she can’t go out for tea without his money and then remarks that EJ is feeding her while he wouldn’t. Dimitri comments on Stefano’s memorial and says at least now his Grandfather is back with his family. Gwen wishes she could’ve met Stefano and wonders what he’d say about their situation. Dimitri remarks that he probably wouldn’t like someone screwing his grandson. Gwen responds that he probably wouldn’t like Leo much either.

Leo sits alone in his room at the Salem Inn. Leo tries calling Javi and leaves a message, saying he hopes his dad is out of surgery and doing better. Leo says he knows he’s busy but to give him a call if he gets a chance because he’d love to hear his voice. Leo says he loves him and hangs up.

Kristen visits Rachel at Bayview. Kristen says they need to talk about the upcoming hearing to make sure they are prepared. Rachel responds that she’s going to tell the judge that she shot EJ, not Kristen. Kristen reminds her that it’s not too late to change her mind as she would do anything to protect her. Rachel doesn’t want Kristen to go back to prison for something she did. Rachel adds that Dr. Gregory says she needs to tell the truth. Kristen argues that Dr. Gregory doesn’t need to be involved in this.

Brady and Belle sit together in the town square. Brady tells Belle this has been fun but he understands if she needs to go. Belle says she has a few minutes before meeting Kristen and Rachel. Brady thanks her for going above and beyond for them. Belle says she loves Rachel too. Belle adds that she’s glad that Brady and Marlena worked things out as it’s done wonders for her. Brady says everyone deserves forgiveness, especially Marlena. Brady mentions planning to visit her when they are done but Belle suggests not doing that because Marlena said that Xander was coming by.

Xander goes to see Marlena at home. Marlena notes that they do have an appointment but she won’t be seeing him here anymore.

Brady tells Belle that he knows Xander is in therapy with Marlena. Belle questions him being okay with that. Brady can’t think of anyone who needs their head shrunk more and admits he’s glad that Xander is getting help because it could only be good for Sarah and Victoria. Belle jokes that she’s impressed. Brady says Marlena is the one who always believes people can change their lives around. Belle guesses if anyone’s capable of a miracle, it’s Marlena.

Xander tells Marlena that if this is about him firing Brady, he can’t blame her. Marlena admits she was very upset about that. Xander says he’s very sorry and understands why she won’t see him anymore. Marlena says that she thought about it a great deal and she realized that referring him out to another therapist would be someone who doesn’t know his history and that could set him back, so she’s decided to continue seeing him as his therapist. Xander thanks her and says she has no idea how much that means to him. Marlena clarifies that she will be returning to her practice at the hospital so she won’t be seeing him here anymore. Marlena adds that if Xander ever does anything that malicious to hurt a member of her family again, she will no longer see him as his therapist or refer him to anyone else at the hospital.

Sarah comes by with Victoria as Brady and Belle are saying their goodbyes. Belle then exits, so Brady offers to get Sarah a coffee. Sarah thanks him but says she shouldn’t, so Brady asks if something is wrong.

Rachel asks Kristen not to be mad at Dr. Gregory. Kristen responds that she’s not mad, but she thinks Dr. Gregory overstepped and she doesn’t agree with her advice. Kristen questions if Bayview is the right place for Rachel. Rachel notes that she’s not allowed to spend time with Sophia anymore which Kristen thinks is for the best, encouraging that she can make more friends closer to her age. Rachel complains that they are weird while Sophia is cool and makes her feel like she’s not crazy. Kristen argues that she’s not crazy, so Rachel questions why she needs to be here then. Rachel complains that she wants to go home so badly more than ever and to be with her. Kristen says she wants that too and promises Rachel will be home soon as they hug.

Dimitri tells Gwen that she can be on her way. Gwen mocks him giving her permission. Gwen wonders if the ISA suspects anyone else in being Peter’s accomplice. Dimitri says they both know he would be impossible since Gwen had him on ice. Gwen insists having nothing to do with his made up kidnapping. Dimitri says whoever it is, is on borrowed time since the camera in the crypt had a direct feed to Alamainia so they were watching live. Gwen brings up only knowing Vivian there and meeting her while she was there. Gwen asks if Dimitri saw her while he was there. Dimitri responds that she knows he didn’t because she had him held captive elsewhere. Dimitri talks about Vivian hating him and his family. Gwen remarks that she and Vivian get along so well because they have a common enemy.

Leo calls Marlena but it goes to voicemail. Leo then sees he has a missed call from Dimitri and wishes he would stop pestering him. Leo has a flashback to visiting Dimitri in prison, then looks back at his phone.

Xander tells Marlena that he is very sorry for the way he behaved when he fired Brady, admitting he lost his temper and snapped, then he stupidly got drunk at the Pub which he knows is never a smart way to cope. Marlena says they will continue to work on his anger issues. Xander wonders if there’s any point since he’s obviously not doing any better and likely never will be.

Brady asks what Sarah isn’t telling him. Sarah says she wasn’t going to bring it up, but she had a conversation with Kristen earlier and she made it very clear that she wants her to stay away from Brady and Rachel. Brady argues that she has no right to do that at all. Sarah doesn’t want Brady going off on Kristen because she thinks she might have a point.

Belle joins Kristen and Rachel at Bayview. Kristen thanks her for coming as she appreciates her help in sorting all of this out, joking that it helps to have the district attorney in the family. Rachel asks if Belle came by because of the hearing. Belle says she just wanted to see her, but she does think they should talk through how everything will happen so there’s hopefully no surprises. Rachel asks if she’s going to have to testify like Johnny’s trial. Belle assures it won’t be anything like that as they will be in the judges’ chambers with just a few people. Rachel asks about EJ.

Dimitri tells Gwen that he is not her enemy and says she’s the one who unleashed all of this hatred on him. Gwen says that’s because he was sleeping with her best friend behind her back. Gwen states that her husband humiliating her made her angry. Dimitri says so angry that she had him kidnapped so she could control his trust. Gwen says they can hash it out in court. Dimitri says he looks forward to it and having her carted off to prison. Dimitri mentions hiring a lawyer and looks forward to filing. Gwen says not if she beats him to it. Leo then walks in and asks what he’s interrupting here. Dimitri is surprised to see him while Gwen questions what he’s doing there. Leo declares that he came on a mission to get Dimitri out of his system. Gwen questions how he plans to do that. Dimitri suggests Gwen leave but she refuses, so he suggests he and Leo go upstairs. Leo says no since the rooms upstairs have beds. Leo repeats that he wants Dimitri out of his system, to rid himself of him and purge him permanently right here. Gwen laughs and says this is going to be a bloody good show.

Marlena tells Xander that she’s reluctant to give up on him now after the progress he’s made. Xander asks what if he’s beyond repair and if she wants to waste her time on him. Marlena says it was really one incident and thinks they should talk about what made him snap at Brady. Xander responds that he’s been under an enormous amount of pressure at Titan, stress, tension with Maggie, and shareholders breathing down his neck constantly. Marlena questions if Xander snapped because of stress at work. Xander then admits he had just got his divorce finalized. Xander notes that it didn’t surprise him because he knew it was coming, but what did surprise him was how hard it hit him and he took it out on Brady. Xander declares that he really is sorry for that. Marlena thinks he might be apologizing to the wrong person.

Brady tells Sarah that he is not going to allow Kristen to dictate whether she’s allowed in his life. Sarah explains that Kristen made it clear that she thinks it’s best for Rachel’s mental health and she can’t entirely disagree. Sarah says she is on board with Rachel not controlling his life, but it’s going to be a long process and they have to be mindful of that. Brady says he gets that but they also have to be mindful of Kristen’s motives. Brady doesn’t buy that Kristen’s concerns are solely about her daughter. Brady asks what Sarah is thinking. Sarah responds that it’s not just Kristen who is concerned about them being a thing, but Marlena, Maggie, and Xander. Brady questions what business this is of Xander’s.

Rachel asks if EJ will be in the judge’s chambers. Kristen says no but Belle says maybe. Belle says they don’t know but Kristen states that he will not be. Belle decides they will just talk about what will be at the hearing. Belle tells Rachel that Kristen will tell the judge that she didn’t shoot EJ and then Rachel will tell the judge what really happened, that it was an accident, and that she remembered a long time later. Kristen says then she will be free and Rachel won’t be punished. Belle says that’s what they think will happen, it’s what she’s fighting for, and it’s what EJ told the judge he wants to happen. Rachel thought this was over. Kristen assures it is and she has nothing to worry about. Rachel points out that Belle said the judge still has to decide. Belle assures that she’s very confident but the judge does still have to make a decision and she can’t promise what that decision is going to be. Rachel asks if she’s saying she could go to prison. Belle promises she’s not going to prison no matter what. Rachel questions what wll happen to her then. Belle says there are other possibilities but repeats that she’s very confident it will go how she thinks. Kristen sends Rachel out of the room to get her painting to show Belle. Kristen then questions what the hell Belle was thinking and why she would say such horrible things to a child. Belle argues that she was telling her the truth while Kristen complains that she terrified her. Belle asks if she would rather Rachel just be blindsided in the hearing. Kristen complains that this was a mistake and she should’ve just stuck to her plan to go back to prison. Belle says she knows it’s hard but she can’t just tell Rachel there’s no consequences for confessing to attempted murder. Kristen argues that it was an accident. Kristen questions what Belle was thinking by saying EJ would be at the hearing and argues that Rachel does not need to see him. Belle argues that EJ is the victim and might need to reiterate to the judge that he does not want Rachel in the juvenile justice system. Kristen demands that EJ will not be there. Belle insists that EJ would never hurt Rachel. Belle says everyone wants to come away with the best possible outcome for Rachel and she’s on her side. Kristen remarks that she’s not so sure she is.

Xander guesses Marlena thinks he needs to apologize to Brady. Xander says he could but he doesn’t think Brady would accept his apology. Marlena says what’s important is that Brady knows he’s sorry for what he did. Xander points out that Brady’s not sorry and admitted he did him a favor. Marlena says that doesn’t let him off the hook since he lost his temper. Marlena asks if there’s another reason he fired Brady. Xander says he’s not sure what she’s getting at, so Marlena asks if it’s possible he fired Brady because he’s interested in Sarah.

Sarah says she shouldn’t have brought Xander in to this. Brady says she did so he asks what Xander says about them. Sarah responds that Xander thinks they are seeing each other just to get back at him. Brady assumes she told him that wasn’t true. Sarah confirms she did, but he might be kind of right.

Gwen tells Leo to purge away. Leo decides there’s nothing he can’t say to Dimitri in front of Gwen. Dimitri tells Leo to ignore Gwen and asks how he plans to get him out of his system. Leo responds that he started by blocking him from his phone. Dimitri says that only goes so far and argues that he can’t block him from his dreams and fantasies. Dimitri insists that the whole time he was held captive, his only focus was getting home to him. Dimitri argues that Leo can’t deny they are meant to be together. Leo says he can’t. Dimitri says the only thing holding him back is fear of feeling guilty. Dimitri complains that they did nothing wrong and they are both victims of Gwen’s and she will be out of their lives soon. Dimitri points out that Javi is not here while he is and he loves Leo with all his heart. Dimitri declares he never stopped loving him and he never ever will.

Xander asks Marlena if she thinks Brady has feelings for Sarah. Marlena says it’s not her place to comment, but he could. Xander thinks they’ve been spending so much time together and leaning on each other to get through tough times that they started to develop an attraction based, driven, and fueled by the fact that they both hate him. Marlena questions thinking they are motivated to get together to punish him. Xander admits he doesn’t think they sat down and decided to start dating to stick it to him, but he thinks it’s in the mix subconsciously.

Sarah tells Brady that she knows it’s petty to want revenge on Xander and assures that she’s not seeing Brady to hurt Xander. Brady admits he wouldn’t mind if a fringe benefit happens to be payback against Xander. Brady insists that what he feels for Sarah has nothing to do with Xander. Brady calls Sarah amazing and praises her as a mom, a doctor, and beautiful. Brady tells Sarah that he likes her. Sarah responds that she’s so flattered and she really likes spending time with him too. Brady adds that he loves seeing her every day at the Kiriakis Mansion. Sarah brings up that Marlena suggested it might be good for Brady to find his own place soon. Brady asks if anyone in town isn’t all up in their business. Sarah explains that Marlena is just thinking about Rachel and when it’s time for her to come home, it probably shouldn’t be the same home that she and Victoria are in. Brady agrees and decides he will step up his apartment hunting and make sure he doesn’t overstay his welcome.

Leo tells Dimitri to stop talking and let him say what he came to say. Leo admits he consulted AI on how to get an ex out of your system. Leo says it’s first suggestion was making a list of all of his ex’s bad qualities. Gwen complains that they’ll be there all night. Leo tells her to shut up. Leo starts by saying that Dimitri posts way too many shirtless selfies on social media, so he unfollowed him. They argue about what music to make love to. Leo continues that his ex makes him do things to hurt other people and makes him long for him after shattering his heart, which he wouldn’t wish on anyone. Leo then declares he’s done reading and done with Dimitri. Dimitri responds that it sounds like his bad qualities and Leo’s are the same. Leo stops him and tells him not to try to convince him they are cut from the same cloth. Dimitri responds that they are two peas in a pod.

Belle assures Kristen that she’s on Rachel’s side and she feels for her because she also had a daughter in Bayview. Kristen argues that Rachel is a ten year old child that made a mistake while Claire was a teenager, deliberately trying to kill her aunt. Belle asks if they are really going to do this, but Rachel comes back in and asks if they are fighting. Kristen says they are not but Belle was just leaving. Belle tells Rachel that she loves her and will see her very soon as she exits. Rachel questions if Kristen made Belle leave. Kristen says of course not. Kristen then finds a paper on the chair and questions what it is.

Marlena tells Xander that in therapy, they like to distinguish between things they can control and cannot control. Marlena points out that Xander cannot control Brady and Sarah and it’s none of his business. Xander argues that Brady could end up being Victoria’s stepfather. Marlena thinks he’s getting ahead of himself and tells him to focus on being the best father he can to Victoria. Xander worries that he’s a lost cause. Marlena thinks he needs to find a way to separate himself from Sarah. Marlena asks if he has any activities he enjoys. Xander remarks that he always enjoyed punching things, so Marlena suggests he take a boxing course. Xander asks how long she thinks it will take to figure out who he is separate from Xander. Marlena believes he can do it if he does the work. Xander vows that he wants to and he will. Marlena says she’ll see him next week then in her office at the hospital.

Sarah tells Brady that she’s not kicking him out of the house and it’s not that she doesn’t want him there. Brady says he gets it and the thing with them is odd while everyone has their opinion about it. Brady guesses it’s not a good idea. Brady says he has to check in with Kristen to see how things went with Belle. Brady says he will see her and quickly walks away, leaving Sarah frustrated.

Kristen questions Rachel as to who wrote the note to her that says “wait until you hear from me”. Kristen realizes it’s from Sophia and tells Rachel that this is unacceptable and she won’t let it go on.

Leo agrees with Dimitri that they do have the same bad qualities and he hates that Dimitri brings it out in him while Javi makes him a better person. Dimitri argues that he doesn’t want Leo to change as he loves him just the way he is. Dimitri says they are kindred spirits who belong together. Leo tells him he’s wrong and storms out of the mansion despite Dimitri trying to stop him. Gwen mocks Dimitri fighting his way out of captivity for that. Dimitri complains that it’s all her fault and warns Gwen that her days here are numbered. Dimitri threatens that he can make Gwen disappear just like she made him disappear as he exits the mansion. Gwen remarks that she’s going to get rid of him first. Gwen pulls out her phone and calls Vivian Alamain. Vivian recalls liking her but questions why she’s calling out of the blue. Gwen asks if Vivian still hates the Von Leuschners as much as she used to. Vivian says even more, so Gwen thinks she has a plan to benefit both of them.

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Y&R Short Recap Friday, February 6, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Noah gets a Dear Noah letter from Sienna, and she tells him not to follow her and stay in Genoa City where he is happy. Noah ignores Sienna’s wishes and follows her to Los Angeles.

Cane asks Holden to find Lily, Mattie, and Charlie, and he promises Holden he will have a good job at one of his companies. Holden asks Claire to go to Los Angeles with him and she accepts his invitation because she wants to find out more about the art dealer who disappeared after a run-in with Audra and Holden.

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Days Update Thursday, January 29, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Holly and Arianna talk about school in their dorm room. Holly talks about how freaked out she is over rushing a sorority. Arianna questions why, encouraging that all the other girls love her and she’s the best. Holly says to tell that to Sophia Choi.

Chanel goes to visit Sophia in her room at Bayview. Chanel says she wanted to see how she’s doing and she wanted to tell her how grateful she is.

Johnny goes to the Kiriakis Mansion to see Bonnie. Johnny informs her that his friends at Titan told him that she’s written a novel. Bonnie remarks tha they never read the novel. Johnny explains that he’s interested in revitalizing the publishing division at DiMera, so he’d very much like to read it. Bonnie can’t believe and excitedly hugs him as she thanks him.

Justin and Melinda sit with Chad and Jennifer at the Horton house. Justin notes that Jack already signed the custody agreement so he just needs Jennifer and Chad’s signatures. Jennifer signs while Melinda says she needs a moment to confer with her client alone. Justin says to take as much time as they’d like. Chad steps aside with Melinda and says he thought they were all good. Melinda warns that she still doesn’t think it’s a good idea as the agreement does nothing but tie him to the demands of a 10 year old. Melinda warns that in her opinion, signing this would be a big mistake.

Chanel acknowledges that Sophia made a huge sacrifice in giving her baby up and calls it incredibly brave of her. Chanel says she and Johnny can’t thank her enough but they also feel for her as they can’t imagine how hard it must have been for her. Chanel assures that they are committed to giving Trey the best life that any child could hope for. Chanel asks if she’d like to see pictures of him and shows her pictures on her phone.

Arianna tells Holly that she knows it was traumatic for her to see Sophia yesterday. Holly still can’t believe Sophia tried to slap her. Arianna says she’s not trying to defend Sophia, but she’s in Bayview for a reason because she’s not really in her right mind. Holly argues that Arianna wasn’t there and didn’t see it, insisting that she wanted to slap her. Gabi then arrives to bring them sorority dresses from Gabi Chic which excites them.

Bonnie can’t believe Johnny is going to publish her book and calls it the best day ever. Johnny clarifies that he still has to read it, but he knows her track record and DiMera needs something they can put in the pipeline immediately so her book is a good fit. Bonnie presents a pair of handcuffs as a marketing tool to go with the book. Johnny asks if she’s given away many copies. Bonnie says she has and she’s waiting to hear back from one as they speak.

Chad tells Melinda that he’s signing the paper as it’s what he wants to do and what his son wants, so there’s no talking him out of it. Melinda reluctantly accepts as Chad tells Justin that all is good. Justin says he will follow up with the court as Chad signs the paper. After Justin and Melinda leave, Jennifer sits with Chad and tells him that she never wanted it to come to this. Jennifer feels it’s damaged their relationship but she doesn’t think it can’t be repaired. Jennifer says in spite of all of their differences, they have their love for Thomas and Charlotte in common. Jennifer adds that she does hope Chad finds love and happiness again as she knows Abigail would want that and he deserves it. Chad thanks her for saying that but doesn’t think it’s in the cards for him and he’s fine with that. Chad calls Abigail his one true love and he thinks that’s enough for him.

Arianna asks if Gabi really came all this way to give them free clothes or if there’s news about their uncle Gabriel. Gabi says he’s still in the hospital and that Javi promised to call if there’s updates. Arianna feels bad for Javi and says it makes the whole sorority rushing feel silly. Gabi encourages that it’s not and it’s an important part of the college experience which uncle Gabriel and Javi wouldn’t want her to miss it. Holly notes that Tate feels it’s silly too and that it’s going to take up a lot of her time, but it’s something she wants to do, so Gabi encourages to do it.

Justin goes home, where Bonnie excitedly tells him that Johnny is going to publish her novel. Johnny starts to clarify but Bonnie insists that the minute he reads it, he will be chomping at the bit to publish it.

Chanel shows Sophia pictures of Trey and tells her about giving him his first bath. When Chanel steps away to grab a peppermint from her purse, Sophia seems to notice that Chanel is pregnant.

Chad tells Jennifer that when he first got out of the crypt, there was a moment where he thought those bones could’ve been Abigail’s but Theo was quick to tell him they belonged to a man.

Johnny tells Justin and Bonnie that he has to get going but he’ll be in touch soon. Bonnie thanks him as he exits. Bonnie tells Justin that it pays to know people in high places even though the Kiriakis family didn’t want to help her aspirations. Justin insists that Titan turning her down wasn’t personal and points out that DiMera could be a stronger company to publish her book. Justin jokes that then maybe he’ll finally get a chance to read it. Bonnie explains that she just didn’t want him to read it until it was a real book at Julie’s book store on the best seller’s shelf. Justin says he can’t wait as he hugs her.

Chanel asks Sophia if she wants to look at the rest of the pictures but Sophia looks away and hands her phone back. Chanel brings up Dr. Gregory communicating through writing notes and asks if there’s anything she’d like to say to her, Johnny, or Trey. Sophia remains silent, so Chanel tells her to let Dr. Gregory know if she changes her mind. Chanel knows she wasn’t happy when she found out that she and Johnny were going to be raising her son and she understands why. Chanel says she’s so sorry for all the trouble caused when they backed out of the adoption as they weren’t thinking about how it would affect her when they should’ve been. Chanel assures Sophia that Trey is loved by so many people and when Sophia gets out, they’d love for her to be a part of his life if that’s what she wants.

Gabi asks Arianna if there’s anything to report in regards to relationship or if she has her eye on anyone. Arianna says no and feels college boys are so immature. Gabi then questions if that’s why Arianna has a fake ID.

Bonnie asks how the mediation went between Chad and the Hortons. Justin says it went pretty well and they were able to work out an agreement. Bonnie says that’s great if everyone’s happy then. Justin says it helped that everyone was reasonable and willing to compromise, which isn’t always the case.

Jennifer tells Chad that she’s sorry he had to go through it. Chad says he was relieved but there was a moment he wishes it had been Abigail’s bones, so they would know where she was. Jennifer insists they will find her someday. Chad mentions the closure on the bones. Jennifer says that Julie told her it was Stefano. Chad says he knew there was no way he’d still be alive somewhere but the Phoenix was always in the back of their minds. Chad guesses that knowing Stefano is truly gone means they don’t have to picture him out there somewhere, disappointed, criticizing and judging him which Chad calls truly liberating.

Arianna tries to deny the fake ID but Gabi reveals it fell out of her jacket pocket while she was tidying up her room. Arianna questions her just now telling her about it. Gabi says she wanted to have it out with her right then and was about to cut the ID in half and ground her for the rest of her life, but then she remembered she’s in college now so grounding her isn’t an option and she’d just go out and get a new fake ID. Arianna asks if that means she’s off the hook. Gabi admits when she was her age, she did a lot of the same things. Gabi assures that she’s not condoning or promoting those actions, but she’s not going to be a hypocrite either. Gabi asks Arianna to just promise to be smart and careful which she agrees to do as they hug.

Chanel and Johnny go home where Johnny asks how things went with Sophia. Chanel responds that it was strange seeing her stuck in that place as she felt so sorry for her. Chanel says she tried to talk to Sophia and comfort her with pictures of Trey, but there’s only so much you can do when a person doesn’t talk back.

Melinda goes to see Sophia and says she got her text that she wanted to see her. Melinda asks how she managed to contact her as she thought she didn’t have access to a phone. Melinda guesses she figured out a way to get one. Sophia responds that she did. Melinda is shocked that Sophia is speaking and says she can’t believe it. Melinda calls it amazing and a breakthrough. Sophia reveals that she’s been able to talk for awhile now, but nobody knows that. Melinda questions why she hasn’t told anyone. Sophia says she likes them not knowing as it helps them underestimate her. Melinda asks why she would want that. Sophia responds that it’s so nobody knows how clever she is or what she’s planning to do.

Gabi suggests a fashion show for Holly and Arianna to put on their dresses.

Jennifer encourages Chad that it has to be positive to have closure on knowing Stefano isn’t out there. Chad says he always felt bad or guilty that his kids’ grandfather wasn’t some kind of standup citizen, but now that he’s gone, he hopes it’s liberating for Thomas and Charlotte so they can distance themselves from him. Chad says it worries him that Thomas will be a teenager soon, so he shudders to think how stubborn he will be when hormones kick in while Abigail was endlessly patient, so he doesn’t know what he’s going to do. Jennifer says he’ll never have to worry about she and Jack undermining him since he is the parent and they will fully support him. Jennifer promises that Thomas and Charlotte will never hear them say anything negative about Chad ever. Chad thanks her and promises the exact same. Jennifer thanks him and jokes that JJ was a horrible teenager who made their lives miserable by acting out while now he’s an incredible police officer. Chad says there’s hope but they will have to buckle up.

Bonnie wonders what it will be like to be a world famous author. Justin feels they might be jumping the gun. Bonnie says a girl can dream of all the first class travel to book signings. Justin jokes that she could be incognito like Anastasia Sands but Bonnie assures that she wants to be famous. Bonnie then asks what happens if she gets a stalker like Stephanie and Alex, worrying that it’s a possibility. Justin says he’d rather not think about that. Bonnie says it’s the one thing about being famous she hopes to avoid and hopes that Alex and Stephanie catch that creepy stalker soon.

Johnny asks Chanel if Sophia tried to communicate in any way. Chanel says she didn’t even after telling her they were grateful which Johnny questions since Sophia almost cost them the chance to adopt. Chanel points out that Sophia is the reason Trey exists. Chanel adds that when Sophia is released, they are going to be living in the same small town which is part of the reason she told Sophia that she could be in Trey’s life if she wants. Johnny adds that would include very close supervision. Chanel understands he’s paranoid that something could happen and she doesn’t blame him since Sophia is not in her right mind now and shouldn’t be trusted, but Trey is a permanent part of their family now and no one can change that.

Melinda asks what Sophia is planning to do. Sophia responds that Johnny and Chanel have custody of her baby which is the last thing she wanted. Melinda feels it should be a comfort that Trey is safe, happy, and healthy as they are giving him a healthy life. Sophia remarks that she sounds just like Chanel and she’s pretty sure Chanel is pregnant. Melinda asks what makes her say that. Sophia says she knows the signs and that Chanel was popping peppermints like her mother used to. Melinda guesses she will have to congratulate her then. Sophia argues that they will have their own baby and completely forget about the one they stole from her. Melinda argues that stealing is not adoption. Sophia remarks that maybe they didn’t steal her baby, but they are not his parents and now that they will have their own kid, they don’t deserve him. Melinda asks if this is why Sophia wanted to see her. Sophia responds that it was because Melinda has experience with this, so she must know a way that they can take her baby back from them and place him in a different home. Melinda asks if she means through legal channels. Sophia states that she means through any channels, whatever it takes.

Jennifer is glad that she and Chad had this talk as they all wanted the same thing and just had different ideas on how to get there. Jennifer calls Chad a great father and assures they never doubted that. Jennifer acknowledges that being a single parent is hard and relates to the years when Jack wasn’t around, but she’s grateful that she and Chad are back in this together. Chad says he is too as they hug.

Justin gets a reminder on his phone to file the mediation agreement with the court. Bonnie says he has plenty of time to do that later while she thinks they should celebrate. Bonnie suggests putting her handcuffs to good use so they don’t go to waste.

Gabi tells Arianna and Holly to enjoy rush week and encourages them to save some of the outfits for their internships. Arianna is excited to start at DiMera tomorrow. Gabi says she just knows that they will both take the world by storm. Arianna reminds her that she’s just working in the mail room. Gabi encourages that great things have small beginnings.

Chanel decides that’s enough about Sophia and asks about Johnny’s day. Johnny calls his day interesting as he’s working on acquiring a new project but he’d rather not talk about it yet in case it doesn’t go through, but it could be part of a whole new chapter in their publishing division. Chanel asks if this mysterious project took up his entire morning. Johnny informs her that he also found out that the remains from the crypt belonged to Stefano. Chanel says she’s so sorry. Johnny says it’s fine and he’s sure EJ has to be broken up about it. Johnny admits part of him wants to reach out but Chanel asks him not to, because no good can come from that.

Melinda tells Sophia that her animosity towards Johnny and Chanel is becoming an unhealthy obsession. Melinda encourages her to put this all behind her and get back to her old life. Sophia responds that she wants a new and better life. Melinda says that requires working with her therapist, being honest about the fact that she can talk, taking her meds, and getting out of Bayview, but it doesn’t mean sabotaging other people’s lives for revenge. Melinda adds that Johnny and Chanel never meant to hurt her and are just trying to be loving parents to a little boy they adopted. Sophia responds that she understands. Melinda says she hopes so. Sophia assures that Melinda is right and she gets what she’s saying. Melinda says if she needs anything else, she’s there for her. Melinda brings up when Sophia got found out about faking the adoption and thanks her for keeping her name out of it, as she appreciates her discretion. Sophia responds that she will continue that because she can’t tell anyone as long as no one knows she can talk. Melinda says she’ll be in touch and then exits. Sophia then opens her drawer where her meds are hidden.

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Y&R Short Recap Thursday, February 5, 2026

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Recap written by Eva

Cane is worried about Lily, Mattie, and Charlie, and he tells Adam that maybe he will take a member of the Newman family.

Adam later tells Victor, Nikki, and Victoria about his conversation with Cane. Nikki fears that Cane is so desperate that he is dangerous. Victor assures Nikki that Lily knows about the plan and is on board with the plan. Victor tells Nikki that Lily, Mattie, and Charlie are safe and Cane will give Newman Enterprises back to them.

Phyllis assures Cane that Victor won’t hurt Lily, Mattie, and Charlie is bluffing to get back Newman Enterprises. Daniel tells Phyllis that if she doesn’t give Newman Enterprises back to the Newman family he and Lucy will never speak to her again.

Mariah talks to a sleeping Dominic and tells him that her life has never been the same since she gave him to Abby, Chance, and Devon after he was born. Mariah also tells a sleeping Dominic that she is his mommy, and nobody will take him away from her again she will die before she allows anyone to take him from her.

Abby and Devon record a video plea to Mariah asking her to bring Dominic home and they post the video on Tessa’s social media. Abby, Devon, Shsron, and Tessa talk to Detective Burrow who has moved from Los Angeles to Genoa City and is now a part of the Police Department. Everyone tells Detective Burrow about Mariah and her struggles in the hope that he will bring Dominic and Mariah home safely.

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Days Update Wednesday, January 28, 2026

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Update written by Joseph

Stephanie and Alex try working on their laptops at home but complain they can’t get anything done. Stephanie feels Steve and Jada must have come up with something by now, so she calls them in to the room and asks if they have a plan. Jada says maybe, if Alex is still okay with being used as bait. Alex agrees to anything to stop Jeremy. Steve says that unfortunately might not be as easy as it sounds because Marlena told him that Jeremy plans to leave town, against Jada’s advice. Alex questions if there’s nothing they can do to stop him. Jada says there’s no legal recourse to force him to stay. Steve assures they won’t let their guard down and goes over the evidence. Jada adds that skipping town raises suspicion, so she assigned JJ to follow him. Alex asks what happens if he leaves the jurisdiction. Jada says they would lose the ability to keep eyes on him. Steve declares that they can’t let that happen so they have a narrow window of opportunity to set their trap and put Jeremy behind bars before anyone gets hurt.

Kayla sits with Marlena and Roman at the Brady Pub, talking about a city council meeting. Johnny arrives and greets them. Johnny says he’s glad they are all here because there is some news that he thinks they should hear from him. Roman asks what’s going on. Johnny responds that it might be music to their ears that the FBI definitively identified that the bones found in the crypt belonged to Stefano. Roman guesses The Phoenix is finally and truly dead. Kate comes over and asks what’s going on. Johnny informs her that he was just telling them about the bones found in the DiMera crypt and that the DNA matched Stefano’s. Roman calls for drinks on the house. Kayla reminds him that it’s Johnny’s Grandfather. Johnny says it’s okay as it’s not really news, just confirmation of something they already knew. Kayla calls it hard to fully believe. Roman brings up when Stefano returned on a microchip in Steve. Marlena comments that Stefano always thought he was immortal and at times they might’ve believed it. Johnny brings up Susan recently thinking Stefano was still alive as recently as a year ago. Kate asks to be excused and steps away, so Roman follows after her.

Abe is at Rafe’s house and they talk about Stefano’s remains being found in the crypt. Abe calls it not really a shock that Stefano is dead. Rafe says it’s still kind of jarring and he’s sure Theo will likely be affected since he was pretty close to Stefano. Abe agrees since the DiMeras are Theo’s only link to his mother. Rafe thanks Abe for coming by since Theo just got out of the hospital. Abe thanks Rafe for telling him about Stefano. Rafe adds that there is something else he wanted to talk to him about. Rafe then shows Abe a photo on his phone of Liam and asks what he knows about him.

Jada says the evidence they had is purely circumstantial and it’s not an open and shut case. Alex asks why not since Jeremy’s name is on the domain. Jada says his lawyers would likely argue that someone else put his name on it. Stephanie asks if they figured out a way to catch him in the act. Jada explains that she and Steve thought they could put Stephanie’s PR skills to use by putting a wedding website together for her and Alex. Steve adds that they would broadcast on the webpage that Stephanie and Alex have decided to elope.

Roman asks if Kate is okay and says she can talk to him. Kate responds that she can’t because it’s wrong for her to shed a tear for an ex-husband in front of her current husband whose life was almost destroyed by the ex-husband. Roman admits he despised Stefano, but he cares about Kate and gets how this could all bring back a lot of memories and emotion so he wants to be there for her. Kate thanks him and says she’s just embarrassed to have any emotion about it since Stefano was a cruel and dangerous man, except when he wasn’t. Marlena thinks this must be hard for Johnny to process which he admits since he loved Stefano. Johnny talks about all the things he learned about Stefano as he got older and how he hurt so many other people he loved. Marlena states that in spite of all that, Stefano was still Johnny’s Grandfather so he’s allowed to be sad. Marlena admits she’s a little sad herself which surprises Johnny. Marlena knows that sounds strange coming from her but the truth is the terrible things Stefano did to her led her to John. Kayla agrees that if not for Stefano, John would’ve never came in to their lives and they are so blessed that he did. Marlena adds that they survived all the things Stefano did to them and were stronger for it. Marlena declares that it proves that love wins.

Steve and Jada explain that the stalker would do anything to be with Stephanie so they want a wedding site that looks legit. Jada adds that they can get their marriage license at the courthouse, so Steve explains that they would send Alex with an undercover lookalike of Stephanie since they know the stalker has been following Stephanie all over town, so he would definitely show up for this. They are unaware that the picture frame that was gifted to them which was bugged is nearby, allowing the stalker to listen in on their conversation as Steve says they’ll make sure there’s an opportunity while Jada says that Stephanie will be as far as possible from the scene of the crime.

Abe tells Rafe that he’s tutoring Liam in reading and asks if he’s in trouble. Rafe brings up Liam’s record and how participating in the literacy program was part of his plea deal to avoid prison time. Abe tells Rafe that Liam has turned his life around but Rafe reveals that according to the FBI’s investigation, it looks like Liam was working with Peter Blake and doing his dirty work which shocks Abe. Rafe says he’s sorry to have to tell him this but it looks like the man Abe is tutoring may have helped kidnap his son. Abe argues that Liam is a petty criminal and asks why he’d be involved with the DiMeras. Rafe isn’t sure how petty grand theft auto is and adds that the money transfers directly went to Liam, from the kidnappings right before the disappearances started and right around the time they would’ve worked on the crypt. Abe asks how much money they’re talking about. Rafe says it’s not much actually so they are thinking Liam was a low level guy or the lookout. Abe declares that Liam is not going to get away with this.

Kate tells Roman that she’ll take him up on a mimosa but Roman says she already toasted to Stefano’s death. Roman promises to tone down his celebratory mood. Johnny tells Marlena and Kayla that he does have good news but now he’s wondering if he should wait and let everybody process this first but Marlena and Kayla say they are always eager for good news, so Johnny announces Chanel is pregnant which they say is wonderful and congratulate him. Johnny says it is a high risk pregnancy but they did have their six week ultrasound and so far everything is looking great. Johnny adds that they are waiting until further along to share with anyone not closest to them. Kayla and Marlena promise their lips are sealed until further notice. Johnny guesses he should go tell Roman.

Alex says it sounds like the best possible plan they have, so he’s in. Steve says he will get to work on the logistics. Jada asks Stephanie what’s wrong. Stephanie can’t believe Jeremy is still doing this to her and wishes she never got involved with him. Jada encourages that she didn’t know and says she’s kicking herself too as she should’ve sensed his whole changed man act was just an act. Stephanie says he can be very convincing while Jada feels she should’ve seen through it as a cop so she’s sorry. Stephanie says she’s the one who should be sorry for sounding ungrateful and bringing up the past. Stephanie calls Jada and Steve her heroes as they might be saving Alex’s life. Steve then finds a new post from “SandsFan69” who says he not only threatened to kill Alex, but that he already tried.

Johnny announces the pregnancy to Roman and Kate. Roman hugs him and congratulates him. Kate calls it wonderful news. Roman guesses Sami is over the moon which Johnny confirms. Johnny says he tried to get a hold of his sister Allie but missed her so he will try again later. Johnny shows them the picture from the ultrasound. Kayla and Marlena talk about Johnny and Chanel having two babies in under a year. Marlena says it will be a lot of work but a blessing. Marlena wishes John was here with them. Kayla feels John’s presence and says she can hear him now. Marlena states that John was very fond of Johnny and Chanel. Marlena congratulates Kayla on Stephanie getting engaged to Alex. Kayla wishes they could be celebrating it without worrying about the whole stalker issue.

Stephanie and Alex question the stalker saying he already tried to kill Alex as Steve shows them the post. Alex reads the rest of the post, saying it’s hard to believe the stuck up bitch with Stephanie is still alive and reveals he almost gutted him in the town square before the flying pumpkin interrupted. Stephanie remembers that Jeremy was in the town square that night with his class, so Rachel and Thomas may have saved Alex’s life with the pumpkin catapult. Jada knows this is all very unsettling, but since Jeremy was there that night, it’s possible he witnessed the pumpkin incident and wrote that just to freak him out. Stephanie then remembers the hole in Alex’s shirt on the morning after and they couldn’t figure out how it got there. Jada says they will reveal the CCTV footage and track Jeremy’s movements. Steve reads further that the stalker wrote that he tried to poison Alex’s drink. Alex remembers how they got takeout and finding his drink tasted funny, then got sick. Jada asks when this happened. Alex says it was months ago. Stephanie remarks that her psychotic ex-boyfriend has been trying to kill Alex for months and it’s only been sheer luck that he didn’t succeed.

Rafe questions Abe knowing Liam was desperate for money. Abe informs Rafe that a few weeks ago, he caught Liam trying to steal Cat Green’s purse but they let him go. Abe adds that he saw Liam today with a cut on his hand that he claimed was from cutting vegetables. Rafe wonders if he actually got in a fight. Abe talks about Liam presenting himself as a devoted dad. Rafe points out that Liam knew Abe was desperate to find Theo. Abe declares that if Liam was involved in Theo’s kidnapping, he never wants to see him again.

Marlena talks to Kayla about thinking Jeremy had turned his life around and having no idea he’d be involved with something like this. Kayla says she hoped he wouldn’t be involved since Julie really cares about Jeremy. Marlena notes that Julie is convinced he’s innocent. Kayla feels she will be disappointed. Kayla is mad at herself for not seeing this sooner. Kayla says she didn’t know how bad Jeremy was with Stephanie until she opened up about it later. Marlena encourages that they are doing everything they can to make sure this nightmare comes to an end. Kayla worries about what if it doesn’t. Kayla knows Jada and Steve are coming up with a plan, so she hopes it puts an end to all of this and no one gets hurt. Roman tells Johnny that he’s so happy for him and then goes to check on a delivery. Johnny tells Kate that he hoped they could talk about a business matter in regards to Bonnie’s novel. Kate asks how he knows about it. Johnny explains that he asked Xander about it and he said Titan isn’t interested in publishing right now which Kate confirms, saying it’s just not the right timing. Kate asks if Johnny is interested. Johnny says he’d have to read it first, but Bonnie’s last book sold well and romance novels turn a nice profit, so if it’s halfway decent, he’d love to give DiMera Publishing a leg up before he hands it back to Theo. Kate says as long as it’s not too big of a leg up. Johnny knows he’s in a weird spot and he’s grateful to Kate for getting Philip and Xander to let him play for the other team while Theo is out. Johnny talks about Kate turning Titan Publishing in to a behemoth that DiMera can’t compete with. Kate says she hates that Titan can’t publish right now but if DiMera wants to take a crack at Bonnie’s new book, they should go for it.

Abe advises Rafe not to fall for whatever yarn Liam spins as he’s obviously a consummate liar. Rafe thanks Abe for sharing what he knows as Abe then exits.

Kayla asks Marlena about coming back to her practice at the hospital. Marlena says maybe part-time although right now, she feels she’s being pulled in different directions. Marlena brings up Brady leaving Basic Black but wanting to keep the company in the family, so Belle suggested maybe she step in and oversee things. Marlena adds that she wasn’t considering it but then she thought it might be a lovely way to honor John’s legacy. Kayla thinks he would be proud of her and would be touched that she’s doing it for him. Marlena worries that she couldn’t do it alone as she doesn’t know anything about being a CEO, but she thinks she knows someone who does.

Stephanie says it boggles her mind that Jeremy could be a textbook sociopath and confessing his sick aspirations on the message board. Steve questions if the guy is brazen or stupid. Jada worries that her interrogation may have backfired since Jeremy knew that they didn’t have anything to hold him. Alex says they will have to catch him dead to rights. Stephanie asks how they know their plan is foolproof since Jeremy could have a knife or a gun and is clearly not in his right mind. Stephanie worries that using Alex as bait seems so dangerous when he’s already been a direct target. Alex assures that he has to do this. Alex honestly thinks it’s the best plan they have to save their lives.

Kayla hopes Marlena isn’t suggesting she help with Basic Black when she knows everything with running a hospital but she couldn’t run a spreadsheet. Marlena understands Kayla has too much on her plate and reveals she was actually thinking of Kate which Kayla calls a good idea. Marlena points out that Kate helped found the company with John and knows her way around a boardroom. Marlena says she would be more of a consultant. Kayla calls it a great idea and says Kate may not be family but she and John were good friends and he trusted her, so she thinks it would be a good fit. Marlena decides to think about it a little longer before discussing it with Kate. Johnny talks with Kate about being a black sheep at Titan as a DiMera, so it means a lot that Kate welcomed him with open arms and he’d never want to jeopardize the professional connections made there. Kate calls him a total asset and says they should be thanking him for saving them money with the IRS. Kate brings up divided loyalty and how she was married to Stefano. Johnny appreciates her understanding and empathy. Kate acknowledges his quickly growing family and says she only wants the best for him. Roman comes back and asks what they have their heads together about. Kate calls it just business chat. Roman asks if that’s DiMera business or Titan. Johnny guesses it’s both. Roman can’t wait until Johnny’s sentence is up at DiMera as he worries that after enough time, that could be where he ends up. Johnny assures that the last thing he intends to do is get wrapped up in any misconduct and calls it a really good learning experience. Roman says that’s putting a positive spin on it. Johnny adds that none of it would be possible without Kate’s support.

Jada agrees with Alex that it’s their only option and feels it’s riskier to do nothing. Jada promises to do everything possible to protect Alex and says they wouldn’t have proposed the plan without believing it was safe. Stephanie then reluctantly agrees to do it. Jada says she and Steve will head to her place to set everything up. Steve reminds them to set up their webpage and assures Stephanie that it will be okay as he and Jada exit. Stephanie tells Alex that he’s so brave to be doing this. Alex tells her that they are not going to live in fear and the way he sees it, he has no other choice but she can’t blame herself. Alex declares the only person to blame for any of this is Jeremy Horton. Stephanie trusts that Steve and Jada will do everything in their power to ensure his safety. Stephanie tells Alex that she needs him to know how much he means to her. Alex assures that he knows but he’s glad to hear her tell him more. Stephanie tells Alex that he’s everything to her and all she ever wanted. Stephanie calls him the best thing to ever happen to her. Alex feels the same way and says they are so damn lucky. They say I love you to each other as they kiss. The stalker remains listening in from the bugged picture frame and shows frustration as he listens in.

Johnny says he should get going to work. Marlena and Roman congratulate each other on their upcoming great grandchild. Johnny adds that he and Chad have discussed doing a memorial for Stefano if anyone would like to attend. Kate agrees to think about it and walks away. Johnny then exits the Pub. Roman turns back to Marlena and Kayla and says he finally has the chance to dance on Stefano’s grave, so they can definitely count him in.

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Y&R Short Recap Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Daytime Soap Opera Short Recaps

 

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Recap written by Eva

Chelsea admits to Victor that Adam told her the basic details of his plan to get Newman Enterprises back from Cane. Chelsea makes it clear to Victor that Adam didn’t want to tell her the plan but once he told her the basics she figured out the rest of the plan. Chelsea also tells Victor that she told Nikki and Nikki suggested that they tell Lily about the plan so she and the twins will be safe.

Nikki is upset that Victor already put the plan in motion because she can’t get in touch with Lily and the twins. Jack tells Diane that Jill is sick and was trying to get Billy to see her, but Billy said that he was following Jill’s wishes in not going to see her.

Victor tells Cane he must sign Newman Enterprises over to him or he will never see his family again.

Billy tells Jack that he intends to run Chancellor Industries in a way that will honor Katherine and Jill but Jack thinks Billy wants to run the company to prove to all the people who didn’t believe in him that he can succeed at running Chancellor Industries.

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Days Short Recap Tuesday, February 3, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Rafe and Eli went to Vivian’s place in Alamania and walked inside. Vivian showed up. She said she was grieving the loss of Jake, Stefan, and Stefano. Vivian talked about Stefan’s death and told them she couldn’t stop them from exhuming Stefan’s body. She said she wanted to be done with the questions. When she turned her back to them, she wasn’t distraught or grieving. Rafe said they would get to the bottom of it once they got the results of Stefan’s body came in. They asked Vivian about Peter and the DiMeras. Vivian only focused on her son. She said whatever Peter wanted to do was on him. They told her about the hidden camera and how it was connected to Alamania. Vivian told them to knock themselves out searching the house because she had nothing to hide. Cat went to the DiMera mansion with Stefano’s urn. Their hands touched when she gave EJ the urn. EJ said the plan for the memorial was to let people come in the house to pay respect. Susan showed up and wondered why Cat was there. EJ stopped Susan from talking to Cat the way she was. When Susan mentioned their kiss, EJ made her apologize. After Cat left, she told EJ to get rid of the urn and put it in the crypt.

At the pub, Gwen had trouble paying for her order. Leo showed up and noticed that she was having cash problems and told her to reconsider his offer. Gwen said she couldn’t get rid of Dimitri without her money. She said his urges weren’t her problem. Leo walked away from her. Cat showed up and offered to pay Gwen’s bill. They talked about the way people treat them. Gwen said she was happy to have a friend. When Gwen mentioned the DiMeras, Cat defended EJ and his grief over Stefano. Gwen told Cat about how close she was getting to EJ. She told Cat that she kept catching them together. Dimitri ran into Leo. He told Leo that he hadn’t changed and couldn’t trust himself alone with him. Leo brought Dimitri to his room. Dimitri took his clothes off. Leo walked out of the room. Cat asked Gwen about Dimitri. Gwen told her she had a plan to get rid of Dimitri and win the divorce. She told Cat that Dimitri was going to go away forever. Vivian called and told Gwen the plan was going according to plan. Rafe and Eli searched through Vivian’s place and found a tablet with a camera. The signal led to Rafe’s office.

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Days Short Recap Wednesday, February 4, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Dimitri was waiting for Leo in his bed. He got tired of waiting for him and spotted a wedding photo of Leo and Javi. Dimitri slammed the picture down. Gwen served divorce papers when Dimitri returned home. He had his papers served too. They argued over how much he hurt her. He admitted that he felt guilty for hurting her, but he didn’t anymore. They argued again until Gwen informed him that no one believed that she kidnapped him. She ripped up his divorce papers. Dimitri vowed to go back to Alamania to prove what she did to him. He warned her that her life would be over. Rafe and Eli confronted Vivian about the tablet they found from the guest room. She said no one was there since Dimitri arrived. Vivian told them how he was there, and she was too weak to protest since Stefan was dying at the time. She became tired of him and wanted him to leave. Her staff and Nicholas confirmed Vivian’s story. When Rafe and Eli went outside he said that he was suspicious of Vivian’s story. They wanted to talk to Vivian’s former employee, Lydia Bower.

Lydia met with Rafe and Eli. She didn’t want Vivian to find out about their meeting. Lydia told them that she was fired over a year ago, but Dimitri wasn’t staying with Vivian at the time. She said that Stefan was there. Liam went to see Abe to apologize for his role in the kidnappings. Abe didn’t care about is apology. He said that Liam didn’t say anything when he knew what was going on. Abe wanted him to give the description of who hired him. Liam was at the station and gave the description of the person who approached him. Vivian was talking to a guy who looked like the description Liam gave of the guy, Vivian and the henchman Liam described celebrated getting away with their lie. Rafe and Eli believed that Dimitri was behind the kidnappings. They realized that Stefan was held in the room and not Dimitri. He was free to move around, but he was watched the entire time. Rafe realized that Vivian pulled Stefan against his will.

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Days Short Recap Monday, February 2, 2026

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Recap written by Michele and Cheryl

Rafe took Liam to the park to get information from him about the DiMera kidnappings. Liam told Rafe what happened. A man approached him at a bar and asked him if he wanted to make extra money, All he had to do was supply food and water in the crypt. He also had to take the sarcophagus out of the crypt. While he was moving the sarcophagus, bones fell out of it. Liam buried them. Liam got upset when he realized that he buried Stefano’s bones. The man told him that the crypt was being prepared for a disaster. Rafe wanted a description of the guy who approached him at the bar. He would set up a meeting with the sketch artist. JJ tailed Jeremy while he was out. Jeremy didn’t know he was following him. Julie put it together when they returned to the Horton house. She didn’t want him to disturb the peace in their home.

EJ ripped into Gwen about Dimitri until she told him about her plan with Vivian to make him look guilty for the kidnappings. EJ thought Vivian was involved with the kidnappings if she could make Dimitri look guilty. He liked the plan because they could find the real kidnapper. Gwen let him know that Dimitri blocked her accounts so she wanted to hire EJ as her attorney. EJ wouldn’t do it because Dimitri was his nephew. He would find someone else to help her and work with her behind the scenes. Kristen met with Brady to let him know that they needed to get Rachel out of Bayview. Sophia was still a problem for them. Kristen felt like Dr, Gregory was giving bad advice, She didn’t like the doctor telling him about dating Sarah. Brady let Kristen know that she ruined things by threatening Sarah. Kristen reminded him that she had custody of Rachel now that she’s out of jail. She wanted to take Rachel out of Bayview, Brady became upset with her. She said she would let Rachel live with him if he got his own place. He wanted to talk to Dr. Gregory first. Julie threatened to sue the police department if JJ and Jada didn’t stop harassing Jeremy. JJ thought Julie had a blind side when it concerned their family. He reminded her about her loyalty to Nick. Julie threatened to throw him out.

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Days Update Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Chanel and Johnny go to the hospital and greet Paulina. Johnny mentions they were about to go see Theo and asks how he’s doing. Paulina says he’s better and will be happy to see them. Paulina then remembers they had a doctor’s appointment this morning. Chanel confirms they had their six week checkup with the ultrasound and she was going to call after visiting Theo, but she’s glad to tell her the news in person that everything looked perfect. Chanel confirms the baby is healthy and so is she. Paulina is thankful as they hug.

Chad visits Theo in his hospital room. Chad comments that Theo had a smile on his face so he must have been having a good dream.

Cat sits with EJ in the living room and says she hopes they didn’t run Gwen off. EJ says they have a lot to catch up on and asks what he missed. Cat says not much and jokes about Rita breathing down her neck. Rafe arrives and greets them. EJ jokingly asks if Rafe is here to welcome him back to Salem. Rafe asks how Sydney is. EJ responds that spending time with her father seemed to help her considerably. Rafe remarks that she did sound better after he spoke to her on the phone. EJ asks what Rafe has to talk about. Rafe responds that they should talk in private but EJ states that Cat is his trusted assistant and can hear whatever it is. Rafe then reveals that he thought EJ should know that they got a positive match on the bones found in the DiMera Crypt and that the FBI and ISA ran multiple tests to make sure there was no error. EJ asks who was the poor soul buried in the dirt then. Rafe reveals that the bones belonged to EJ’s father, Stefano DiMera, leaving EJ shocked.

Abe meets Liam at the Book Club. Abe apologizes for missing their last session. Liam says it’s okay as he heard about what happened to his son and he’s sorry. Abe says he’s doing remarkably better and should be discharged from the hospital soon.

Chad tells Theo that he looks better. Theo talks about getting discharged soon and he can’t wait. Theo asks about the kids. Chad says they are good. Theo asks about the custody situation with Jack and Jennifer. Chad says it took some negotiating but the kids are going to stay with him. Theo calls that great news and hopes the negotiations worked out to his satisfaction. Chad responds that he’s no longer in danger of losing his kids and that’s all that matters.

Cat tells EJ that she’s sorry. EJ says it’s not that he didn’t believe his father was dead but he was The Phoenix so you could never rule out that he would rise from the ashes. Kristen then walks in and asks if she missed something. EJ reveals to her that the bones in the crypt were Stefano’s. Kristen can’t believe she killed Peter by using one of Stefano’s bones as she breaks down crying. Cat brings Kristen a water as Kristen calls it fitting that Stefano was the one who did Peter in. Kristen calls it a long slow death starting from when Stefano took her and Peter in as children. Kristen argues that Stefano has been gone long enough that she could see the damages he did, so the love that she had for him is completely gone. Kristen declares that she now detests Stefano and EJ with every fiber of her body. Kristen tells EJ that she hates him and feels sickened being in his presence, so she’s going to pack her stuff and get the hell out. Kristen then heads upstairs. EJ guesses he should inform the rest of his siblings about this latest discovery. Rafe asks if EJ has any idea how the bones ended up in the crypt. EJ says no, but he suspects Rafe does since he was the last one to see Stefano alive.

Paulina tells Chanel and Johnny that she’s so happy for them and asks what else Sarah said. Chanel says just that everything looked great and they heard the baby’s heartbeat for the first time which was very exciting. Chanel states that things are right on track. Johnny adds that the best news is that Sarah believes the risk of Chanel’s cancer recurring is very low. Paulina asks if this means they can start sharing the good news. Chanel assures that they are okay with telling family and close friends which excites Paulina as she wonders where to start.

EJ talks about Rafe and Hope covering up Stefano’s murder but he wasn’t actually dead since according to Dr. Rolf, Stefano didn’t die until years later. Cat says she’s not following. EJ argues that when it came to Stefano, Rafe turned deranged. Rafe calls Stefano an evil son of a bitch who didn’t give a damn about whose lives he ruined. Rafe says Stefano didn’t have a heart or a conscience. EJ questions Rafe speaking ill of his father when they just confirmed his death. Rafe admits he shouldn’t speak ill of the dead, even if the world is so much better without them. EJ tells Rafe to go to Hell and walks out of the room.

Theo knows Chad’s kids are more important to him than anything, but he knows things have been difficult for him in his personal life because of things with Cat, so he’s hoping things are all good. Chad assures that he got what he want and is beyond grateful. Chad then gets a call from EJ, who informs him that he is back home. EJ asks if Chad has a few minutes. Chad says he’s just visiting Theo and asks what’s up. EJ responds that he’s not sure Theo is ready to hear this but Rafe was just there with the results from the lab, confirming the bones from the crypt were Stefano’s. EJ says he knows it’s no surprise that Stefano is dead but he thought he should know. Chad says he’ll check back on him later and hangs up. Theo asks if everything is okay with EJ. Chad says he just wanted to tell him he was home and send his well wishes. Theo hopes to see him soon. Chad decides to let him rest and tells Theo to text him when he’s discharged. Theo thanks him for stopping by as Chad then exits.

Paulina asks when the next doctor’s appointment is. Chanel says she’s not sure and adds that she and Johnny might prefer to be surprised by the sex of the baby. Paulina jokes about not knowing what color clothes to get. Johnny says they can figure that out while he goes to visit Theo and Chanel can meet him in the room. Johnny heads to Theo’s room while Paulina comments that Johnny seems more positive about the pregnancy now. Chanel agrees that this was the first time she saw Johnny be happy about it and reiterates that Johnny was never not happy about the baby, he was just scared. Paulina is glad he’s letting himself feel the joy now.

Abe tutors Liam and compliments him on his reading improving. Liam admits when they first started, he thought it was total BS but the other night, he was reading to his kid and didn’t stumble over words, so it made him want to keep getting better. Abe encourages that he will soon. Liam jokes that his son is smarter than him and will be reading to him soon. Abe asks about his son’s mother. Liam reveals that she overdosed a couple of years ago. Abe says he’s sorry to hear that. Liam says it’s been hard but his son Gage is getting better now and spends time with his parents. Liam says he’s trying to spend more time with him and take care of him. Liam adds that he will never forget Abe’s kindness in giving him money so he could buy his son food and promises to pay him back one day. Abe responds that he’s already paying him back by showing up and being a good dad to his son. Abe declares that he’s very proud of him.

Johnny visits Theo in his hospital room and brings him scones from the bakery. Theo questions Johnny not being at work. Johnny responds that he is working as he came to pick his brain. Johnny explains that he was sent a manuscript for a book and he hears it was pitched to Titan but they don’t have the resources to take it on at the moment. They talk about Titan’s publishing department being the one place they are out performing DiMera. Theo asks what the book is about. Johnny says he hasn’t read it yet but understands it’s a steamy romance novel which Theo notes is very marketable right now. Johnny says especially after the success of One Stormy Night. Theo says if Johnny thinks the book will sell and the editors like it, he says go for it.

Cat comments to Rafe that EJ seemed genuinely upset about his father. Rafe laughs it off and calls it no big shock that Stefano is actually dead. Rafe adds that Stefano and his children had a relationship as toxic as it gets. Cat guesses EJ still loved the guy. Rafe says that depends on your version of love. Rafe assumes that EJ thought The Phoenix would again rise from the ashes. Rafe asks Cat not to start feeling sorry for EJ. Cat says that EJ is human and this might be a vulnerability they can use to their advantage. Rafe says they’ll see. Rafe decides he should get back to the office. Cat says she’ll walk out with him but then Chad arrives and enters the room.

Johnny imagines Theo is anxious to get out of the hospital. Theo hopes it’s soon but admits he’s still a little weak. Johnny tells him not to rush out since he’s got things covered until he’s ready to dive back in at DiMera. Theo promises to be back as soon as he’s up for it since he knows Johnny never wanted the CEO job. Johnny assures that he’s handling it so Theo can focus on recovering. Johnny decides he’ll head back to the office and look at that manuscript. Johnny tells Theo it’s good to see him. Theo thanks him for stopping by as Johnny exits.

EJ goes to see Dr. Rolf in the lab and questions what the hell he did to his father.

Johnny comes out from Theo’s room and tells Chanel and Paulina that his visit was brief but good and now he’s heading back to the office. Chanel says she will visit Theo and see Johnny at home. They kiss as Johnny then exits. Paulina comments to Chanel that they seem good. Chanel calls it a relief to be back on track. Paulina asks if she’s sure she will be able to manage a baby, a business, and a pregnancy. Chanel says they can afford to hire help while Johnny is CEO of DiMera until Theo is ready to step back in. Paulina reminds her that she and Abe are always there to help too. Chanel appreciates that but notes she has a whole city to run. Paulina remarks that it’s always solve one problem and another pops up. Chanel then asks Paulina why Kristen DiMera is not locked up.

Chad tells Rafe and Cat that EJ called him about the bones. Kristen comes back downstairs with her bags packed. Kristen comes in to greet Chad. Chad asks if they are sure it’s true this time. Rafe confirms they quadruple checked and it matched Stefano’s DNA along with EJ’s and Chad’s. Cat says she’s sorry. Kristen questions why she’s still there. Cat explains that she was catching EJ up on what he missed while he was gone but she should get going. Chad decides to walk her out, so they exit together after Chad takes one last look back at the room. Rafe then tells Kristen that he has a few questions.

Chad and Cat exit the DiMera Mansion together. Chad says it was nice seeing her. Cat says it was nice seeing him too and she hopes the custody mediation went well. Chad confirms they came to an agreement. Cat asks if he’s happy. Chad admits there were concessions but he gets to keep his kids. Cat calls that amazing. Chad adds that the kids will spend summers in Boston with Jack and Jennifer along with some holidays. Cat asks if those are the only concessions. Chad admits that he also had to put in writing that he and Cat can never be together. Cat tells him that she knows and she should go as she walks away.

EJ informs Dr. Rolf that Rafe says the bones in the crypt were conclusively determined to belong to Stefano. Dr. Rolf says thank God as he heard Peter Blake removed the bones from the sarcophagus, so he’s greatly relieved to hear Stefano’s remains are in the crypt where they belong. EJ questions how they ended up there in the first place. Dr. Rolf reveals that when he told EJ that Stefano had died, he didn’t tell him everything.

Abe asks Liam when they should meet again. Liam says same time next week is good for him. Abe notices the cut on Liam’s hand and asks about it. Liam says he was cutting some vegetables and the knife slipped. Abe tells Liam that he understands how hard it can be. Liam assures that he’s really trying. Abe advises him to be safe. Liam says he’ll be fine.

Paulina tells Chanel that Kristen was granted bail because the district attorney’s office realized she was kidnapped and didn’t escape from prison. Chanel argues that she still shot EJ. Paulina is sure it will get worked out. Chanel calls Kristen a menace and complains that she almost let Johnny go to prison so she doesn’t deserve to be out on the streets. Paulina encourages her to trust that everyone is working hard to ensure justice is served.

Kristen pours a drink and toasts to Stefano’s portrait. Rafe says he feels for her as she’s been through Hell the past couple of weeks with a lot of loss in a short time. Kristen cries that her daughter is still locked up. Kristen asks what Rafe wanted to ask her. Rafe asks if she has any idea where Dr. Rolf is. Kristen says she hasn’t seen him in awhile and asks if he asked EJ. Rafe says that EJ said he had no idea either.

Johnny finishes a call in the DiMera Enterprises office as Chad walks in. Chad comments on Johnny looking comfortable in that chair but Johnny assures he’s just keeping the seat warm until Theo gets back. Johnny asks what brings him by. Chad informs him that EJ is back in town. Johnny asks if he said how Sydney is doing. Chad confirms she’s doing better so Johnny says he’ll call her later. Chad hoped EJ would have called Johnny to tell him himself but they aren’t talking to each other. Johnny asks what’s going on. Chad then reveals to Johnny that the bones found in the crypt were Stefano’s.

EJ questions what Dr. Rolf was not telling him about Stefano’s death. Dr. Rolf responds that when the world only thought Stefano was dead, they went far off the grid to a private island that Stefano owned. Dr. Rolf explains that Stefano ordered him to find a way to reverse his declining health, but his research took him six months and when he returned, he found Stefano was truly dead. EJ asks how long he had been deceased. Dr. Rolf estimated that Stefano passed shortly after he left, so even if he could’ve revived him, there was sadly nothing left to revive. EJ asks what he did with his body. Dr. Rolf responds that he initially buried him on the island, but it ate away at him that he wasn’t with his family where he belonged, so he brought him home. EJ questions why he didn’t tell anyone. Dr. Rolf says he worried that he would be desecrated so he placed him in the sarcophagus and that was the last he saw of him. EJ questions how the hell he ended up with his bones buried in the dirt under the crypt then. Dr. Rolf responds that he has no idea. EJ states that part of him wishes it could be Stefano in the tube in the room while a part of him is glad he’ll never see him again.

Cat works on her laptop in her room and then calls Andrew Donovan, telling him that she has some good news. Cat says it took her forever but she finally got something. Cat reveals that the money trail was convoluted but she traced a couple accounts back to Peter Blake and she just found a transfer from one of them to another account in Salem, so now they know who Peter hired to do his dirty work..

Paulina and Chanel visit Theo in his hospital room. Theo asks Chanel how she’s feeling today. Chanel assures she won’t throw up again and asks how he is. Theo says he’s pretty good. Paulina reveals that they just ran in to his neurologist outside, so she thinks he’s going to feel even better.

Cat informs Andrew that she does know the guy that the accounts belongs to as she had a run-in with him before. She reveals he’s a local named Liam Selejko…

Liam and Abe walk through the town square together. Liam thanks Abe again and says he was always bored in school but this feels different. Abe encourages that he’s doing very well, so he sees good things in his future. Abe then gets a call from Paulina so Liam says he’ll see him next time and walks away. Paulina tells Abe that she’s with someone who has something to share. Paulina then gives the phone to Theo, so he can announce to Abe that he’s being released from the hospital today.

Kristen tells Rafe that she needs to get out before EJ comes back and asks if he’s thought any more about working together to bring EJ down. Rafe confirms he has thought about it quite a lot, but he’s not sure how she can help him if she ends up back in prison. Kristen says not to fast forward to a negative outcome. Kristen points out that she’s free now and ready to team up with him, so she asks what he says.

Johnny tells Chad that they all knew Stefano was gone, but to have it confirmed like this. Chad knows he was close to him as a kid. Johnny admits he thought he was a God then. Johnny points out that he was Chad’s dad, so he’s really sorry. Chad thanks him. Chad says sometimes he thinks of all of Stefano’s heinous crimes and he’s ashamed that he was his father, but other times he thinks about how much he loved them all and how funny and charming he was. Johnny calls Stefano a complicated man and formidable. Johnny feels like it was an undignified end for him. Chad agrees. Johnny suggests they have to do something about that.

EJ tells Dr. Rolf that it’s sadly too late for Stefano, but Dr. Rolf said he’s ready to prepare for human trial. Dr. Rolf says it will require 24 hour monitoring from this point forward and he had planned on this from the beginning as he has someone fully trained and in place. EJ asks if he really thinks this is going to work. Dr. Rolf believes he finally has the correct formula, so he’s very optimistic that she will open her eyes again soon. EJ smiles as they stand next to the tube in the room.

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Days Update Monday, January 26, 2026

Days of Our Lives Update

 

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Update written by Joseph

Chanel sits at home with Trey, saying they will be back soon but they are going to see her baby for the first time and soon will be coming home with a new brother or sister for him. Johnny looks on with a look of concern but then joins her and agrees on what a wonderful day that will be as they hug.

Sarah is surprised to see Kristen at the hospital, noting she wasn’t on her schedule and isn’t due for a checkup. Kristen responds that she asked the hospital to squeeze her in so she could see her regarding an urgent matter.

Gwen is with Dr. Rolf in the lab. Gwen complains that she’s put a lot of money in to this and it should be done. Dr. Rolf tells her to be patient as they are on the cusp of greatness. Dr. Rolf talks about the effects of Versavix while Gwen urges him to get it done before the next ice age.

Cat goes to see Rafe at his home. Rafe informs her that Javi and Leo have moved out, Gabi is at work, and Arianna is at school. Rafe jokes that the quiet is kind of great. Rafe asks if she got Mark to let her in to the lab. Cat says unfortunately no and Mark insisted on looking for EJ’s binder himself but it never existed. Cat complains that she has to find her way in to the lab because EJ is coming home any day now.

EJ returns home to the DiMera Mansion where he is shocked to find Dimitri seated inside. EJ questions what the hell he’s doing there. Dimitri respond that it is the family mansion and he lives there.

Kristen informs Sarah that she wants to talk to her about her relationship with Rachel. Kristen says she’s very grateful that Sarah was there for her when she couldn’t be, but she’s here now and her daughter doesn’t need two mothers. Sarah says she would never try to replace her. Kristen brings up Sarah tried to when Rachel was an infant. Sarah argues that there was far more nuance to it than that and she knows it. Kristen complains that Rachel just found out about Sarah trying to kidnap her and believes that has sent her over the edge along with the sight of Sarah clinging to Brady.

Rafe agrees with Cat that EJ might be back any day now which means getting in to the lab could be a big risk. Cat worries that this could be their only chance and says the ISA has had long enough to crack the keycode since she had the first three numbers. Rafe reminds her of EJ’s other set of eyes, Rita. Cat complains of getting her marching orders from Rita since EJ left and how she stonewalled her when she mentioned someone staying in the secret room or tried to get answers about Leo calling about a delivery. Rafe asks what Cat thinks about Leo’s video. Cat says that even if Gwen’s not involved in the free clinic, it confirms that Gwen and EJ are in some sort of silent partnership conspiring together.

EJ asks Dimitri where the hell he has been all this time since no one has heard from him or seen him in years and now he comes home to him in the living room. EJ asks what happened to him and if he wasn’t with his mother. Dimitri responds that he was kidnapped by Gwen and asks if EJ would know anything about that.

Gwen tells Dr. Rolf that she’s sorry if she’s a bit pushy and admits that she’s in a bit of a rush and impatient. Dr. Rolf gets that Gwen is greedy for the financial reward. Gwen complains that his work is getting them nowhere even though she’s thrown a fortune at him. Dr. Rolf yells at her to close her mouth and listen for a change. Dr. Rolf then shows Gwen that he has used Versavix to bring a rat back to life.

Sarah asks Kristen if she really pulled her away from her patients to pick a fight with her. Kristen says she wanted doctor-patient confidentiality. Kristen tells Sarah that she can’t tell her to stay away from Brady but she can tell her to stay away from Rachel because that’s what’s best for her. Sarah tells Kristen to find another doctor because she will no longer be treating her. Kristen says that is fine by her as she walks out of the room. Kristen goes on to run in to Johnny and Chanel as they arrive at the hospital. Chanel questions why Kristen isn’t behind bars where she belongs. Kristen responds that she’s really sorry and leaves the hospital. Johnny encourages Chanel to let it go while Chanel complains that Kristen is the whole reason that Johnny had to go through the trial. Johnny reminds her what Sarah said about stress and to think about the baby. Chanel felt she had to say something and argues that Kristen almost destroyed their lives. Chanel asks again why Kristen isn’t in prison. Johnny says there’s apparently some type of hearing coming up, so he’s sure they will find out.

EJ asks Dimitri why he would know anything about his alleged kidnapping. Dimitri responds that EJ and Gwen were here living it up in the mansion while he was held against his will. EJ says he’s hardly been living it up. Dimitri questions why Gwen has been in the house and what she told him. EJ says that Gwen told him nothing and just showed up at his door, claiming to be family and that the Hortons and Deverauxs didn’t want her, so he figured they had room so why not. Dimitri questions Gwen being in his home while he was stuck in captivity. EJ says it couldn’t have been too bad since he seems healthy and managed to escape. Dimitri says he didn’t escape but he was put on a plane and dumped here, just in time to ruin Leo’s wedding. EJ guesses he doesn’t have any proof that Gwen did it. Dimitri says he doesn’t yet, but he will get it. Dimitri adds that he has transferred all of his assets back to his name, frozen all of Gwen’s credit, and plans to find out what exactly she’s been doing with his money. EJ thinks he’s going a bit too far but Dimitri says it’s not far enough. Dimitri declares that as soon as his divorce is finalized, he expects EJ to throw Gwen out. Dimitri tells EJ that it’s so good to see him and welcomes him home as he then exits the room. EJ then pulls out his phone.

Cat tells Rafe that she has another dinner date when EJ gets back and she will learn more then, but promises not to do anything crazy. Cat adds that she has to figure a way to get back in the secret room to see if they missed any clues. Rafe advises her to play it safe this time. Cat asks if Rafe and Eli are playing it safe by going to Alamainia without a posse. Rafe explains that they won’t be alone because Steve already sent Bo and Hope there to deal with Stefan’s remains and making sure the body matches the headstone. Cat wonders how Vivian took that. Rafe says not great but she did agree to questioning. Rafe says the camera in the crypt was transmitting a signal to Alamainia and that’s what the focus will be on. Cat says she will focus on the lab. Rafe hopes she will have better luck with Mark.

Gwen can’t believe Dr. Rolf successfully brought the rats back to life and says that EJ will be thrilled. Dr. Rolf says it took a great deal of trial and error to get the dosage right and so far, there have been no side effects. Dr. Rolf declares that soon they can begin experimenting on humans. Gwen then gets a call from EJ. Gwen tells EJ that she’s with Dr. Rolf while EJ informs her that he’s been with Dimitri, who told him all about her. Gwen is surprised to learn that EJ is home. EJ then angrily asks Gwen to get her ass there now.

Sarah joins Johnny and Chanel in a hospital room and asks how Chanel is feeling. Chanel says she still has morning sickness but no cramps. Sarah says that’s great and asks if they are ready to take a peek at the baby.

Cat asks Rafe who is on the top of his list to be Peter’s accomplice. Rafe responds that there’s no definitive list yet. Rafe talks about how Vivian makes sense if Stefan was alive because she would want the inheritance money but the timing doesn’t line up with Tony’s abduction and she would’ve had to have been planning the whole thing before Stefan was dead. Cat brings up Dimitri returning at an odd time while Rafe comments on his crazy story about being held hostage by Gwen while Cat notes Gwen saying she was cut out of his financial situation. Rafe points out that Dimitri isn’t even a direct heir so he’d have to go through his mother Megan or make a deal with Peter. Cat feels Dimitri wouldn’t have much to gain. Rafe brings up Stefano’s estate never being settled since his body was never found while the seven year waiting period is almost up so the DiMeras can claim the inheritance.

Kristen enters the living room of the DiMera Mansion and tells EJ that she has nothing to say to him. EJ asks what happened with Peter. Kristen tells EJ that Peter said he would see her in Hell before he died. EJ says he’s so sorry but Kristen doesn’t believe him and argues that EJ is itching to dance on Peter’s grave just like she is itching to dance on EJ’s as she storms out.

Gwen tells Dr. Rolf that she has to go face EJ, but at least she will have good news to share with him. Gwen stops and asks Dr. Rolf if he’s sure there are people willing to pay millions for this drug. Dr. Rolf responds that he thought she was sure as well since she threw her fortune at him. Gwen says she will see him later then. Gwen then asks Dr. Rolf if he can bring her back to life if EJ murders her which he laughs at as she exits the lab.

Sarah encourages Chanel not to worry if they don’t hear a heartbeat of the baby because it’s very early in the pregnancy and they can do another ultrasound. Sarah then tells her that it looks great as they see the embryo with a tiny heartbeat. Johnny declares it’s their baby.

Cat and Rafe talk about Peter going after the family because he knew the seven years were almost up and he wanted to eliminate the competition to get the money. They joke about Susan’s belief that Stefano is still alive while Rafe informs Cat that Stefano’s essence was once put on a microchip that was planted in Steve’s head. Rafe calls that a long story and says he’ll send her the file on it. Rafe says considering Stefano’s age, it’s very unlikely that he’s alive and well but when it comes to the DiMeras, nothing surprises him anymore. Rafe then admits he was surprised by one thing DiMera related the other day as he reveals that Kristen offered to help bring EJ down which surprises Cat. Rafe explains that for some reason, Kristen blames EJ for Rachel being in Bayview, so she wants revenge. Cat asks if Rafe is going to team up with Kristen. Rafe admits it seems a little risky because one outburst from her could blow the whole operation. Cat suggests maybe Kristen could show some restraint and give them what they need to put EJ away.

Kristen confronts Dimitri in the town square. Dimitri remarks that the sight of her at breakfast would cause him to lose his appetite. Kristen calls him an ungrateful brat after the chaos his mother caused their family. Dimitri compares it to Peter. Kristen warns him not to speak of Peter. Dimitri didn’t realize it was a sensitive topic. Kristen tells Dimitri that he owes her money. Dimitri says the blackmail ship has sailed since he’s out and proud as well as extremely rich. Dimitri tells Kristen to go home and take a bath to soak off the stench of prison and death. Kristen remarks that she wouldn’t live under the same roof as him and moved out of the DiMera Mansion. Dimitri jokes that she won’t get any more free breakfasts. Kristen warns that after what he did to Gwen, she’ll see to it that he’ll be departing the mansion soon.

Gwen goes to the DiMera Mansion to see EJ in the living room. EJ questions her bringing Dimitri back without consulting him first. Gwen points out that she left him a message and said she would explain when he got home. EJ argues that if he knew what she was up to, he would’ve done everything in his power to stop it. EJ asks if Gwen has a death wish. EJ says he knows she wanted revenge in her own way but he didn’t realize that meant jeopardizing everything they’ve worked for so she could watch Dimitri and Leo squirm. Gwen argues that it wasn’t her fault because she didn’t know Dimitri could divorce her and take her money, so she didn’t know she wouldn’t be safe. Gwen says that her understanding of Dimitri’s inheritance and terms was misguided. EJ calls it dead wrong. Gwen admits she made a mistake. EJ blames her ego and reminds Gwen that her contribution to their special project was her husband’s cash. Gwen asks if EJ doesn’t have his own cash. EJ says his cash is wrapped up in other things and Dimitri’s was their biggest supporter, so until they start making money, they need his cushion to stay afloat. Gwen informs EJ that they will be making money sooner than he thinks. EJ asks what she means. Gwen then reveals that Dr. Rolf brought the rats back to life and says the drug is ready to be tested on humans which shocks EJ.

Sarah tells Chanel and Johnny that Chanel and the baby are doing very well and she will set her up for a follow up. Sarah adds that the chances of her cancer recurring are low. Chanel asks Johnny if he’s comfortable with telling family and close friends. Johnny says he wants to shout it from the rooftops. Johnny asks what the next steps are and if Chanel needs to take it easy. Sarah says there are no restrictions other than the usual as long as she’s not experiencing cramping or bleeding. Sarah tells Chanel that the best thing to do is rest and enjoy being pregnant. Sarah tells them that she’s so happy for them as she knows how much they wanted this. Chanel responds that they have a beautiful baby boy but she feels so blessed to be adding to their family.

Rafe tells Cat that he’s going to take his offer from Kristen to his higher ups at the FBI to let them decide if she’s viable. Rafe asks Cat how Chad’s custody mediation is going. Cat responds that she wishes she knew but she can’t ask him or reach out for obvious reasons. Cat then gets a text from Rita, informing her that EJ is back in town. Cat then says she has to go. Rafe tells her to be safe as she quickly exits.

EJ calls Dr. Rolf to confirm what Gwen told him. EJ congratulates him and hangs up. Gwen jokes about EJ being skeptical as she pours him a drink. Gwen toasts to their success while EJ warns that he’s still furious with her. Gwen suggests they just celebrate the good news a bit. EJ asks if he should just forgive her for bringing back Dimitri. EJ complains that having him back in Salem is potentially life changing. Gwen swears she can make it right and if all goes according to plan, she can take care of Dimitri and save her fortune. EJ questions how since Dimitri seems to have made himself quite at home. Gwen informs EJ that the ISA is looking at Dimitri as Peter’s possible accomplice. EJ calls that rich considering where he’s actually been. Gwen says they know it’s not true but Rafe doesn’t and that Rafe said he doesn’t believe Dimitri’s kidnapping story. Gwen points out that he has no proof. Gwen explains to EJ that she wants to frame Dimitri for the kidnapping and then his story will blow up in his face, he’ll go to prison and she’ll be off to the bank.

Johnny and Chanel go home. Chanel excitedly thinks she felt the baby but guesses she must be imagining it because she wants it to feel real. Johnny assures her that it is real and now that they know the odds are in their favor, he feels so bad that he was ever a downer about her being pregnant. Johnny insists it’s only because he loves her so much. Chanel decides no more feeling bad, only excited and grateful because soon they will have a healthy baby as a little brother or sister to Trey and a person they created out of their love as they hug.

Dimitri questions Kristen giving a damn about Gwen, arguing that the Kristen he knows only cares about herself. Kristen mocks him stealing the money from Gwen while Dimitri says he simply took back what’s his and soon, Gwen will pay for the bad things she did to him. Kristen remarks that it sounds like Dimitri is becoming a true DiMera which in their family means it’s survival of the fittest and to Hell with everyone else. Dimitri supposes he’ll feel right at home then. Dimitri says his mother was no wilting violet and neither is he. Dimitri tells Kristen to brace herself for a lot of turbulence because he’s here to stay.

EJ comments that Gwen talks a big game but offers very few details, so he’s going to need to know exactly how she plans to frame Dimitri and how she thinks it’s going to work which he highly doubts considering the royal mess she made in bringing Dimitri back. Cat then arrives and greets them. Cat tells EJ that she’s so glad he’s back and asks how Sydney is. EJ says she’s much better and thanks her for asking. Cat hopes she’s not interrupting. EJ says of course not as they were merely toasting to his return.

Rafe gets a call from Shane Donovan, revealing the identity of the bones from the DiMera Crypt.

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