Days of Our Lives July 21-25: Drama in Salem: Kidnappings, Comebacks, and Confessions

Hi everyone!

In all transparency, it’s been harder to get the recaps out because of other obligations, but I will try — and may have to do things a little differently. So, besides recapping, I’ll also review some of the most pressing stories in our soaps. Thank you for continuing to support SoapWire, brought to you by the TVCave.

Now, on to my review of Days!

I have to say, Gwen being back has been a breath of fresh air. She’s had encounters with Julie, Chad, JJ, Gabi, and Leo. I, for one, did not expect to enjoy Gwen’s return — but I have. It’s allowed me to remember the many different connections she has, even with Kristen DiMera. And now she’s moving into the mansion as well! I’ve been completely open to Gwen this time around. She’s involved with so many characters, from legacies to veterans, and it’s been a joy to watch — especially alongside her zingers to Leo. Dare I say, it’s been good!

Gabi and Xander had a bonding moment dealing with their daughters — Gabi with her missing daughter, and Xander navigating his situation with Sarah and their child. This was another unexpected but welcome moment. It’s always nice to see characters interact with people outside their usual circles.

Ari and Holly being kidnapped was something I was personally waiting for! It felt like forever before the shoe finally dropped. The actual kidnapping didn’t last nearly as long as the buildup, but of course they were rescued. Ari’s life seemed more at risk, but did you really think anything was going to happen to a Horton-Brady-Hernandez they just brought on? Absolutely not.

This also led to Holly and Ari confronting Doug once they were safe. All they wanted was honesty. He always liked Holly and Ari, but even though he liked Ari, he was using her to get over Holly — plus he wasn’t honest about being stalked for more money. Should he have told the truth? Of course. But then, where would the drama be? I’ll confess: I was a Dolly fan.

After talking to both girls, Doug makes his way to Julie and gives her Alice’s necklace — something he managed to get from Gwen without her knowing. Julie and Doug make peace, and she tells him she wants him to come back once he gets his life together.

EJ and Kayla continue to spar over how the hospital should be run. EJ also hires Stephanie, which Kayla does not like.

One story that has me hook, line, and sinker is Sophia and her lies about the baby. From giving birth to her and Tate’s son on her own, to leaving him at a safe haven, to seeing her spot her son out with Leo and Javi — the emotions jumped through the screen. She then asks Melinda to help her with a plan. They’re in Chicago, working to cover their tracks so nothing seems suspicious.

Sophia returns to Salem and tells Tate and Brady that she had a baby girl (which we know is a lie), and that she let the adoptive family take the baby immediately after birth. Tate is devastated that he never even got to hold his own child before the adoption.

Sarah and Xander finally agree to joint custody — if he sees Dr. Evans. Xander also wants to move forward with a legal separation.

Tony DiMera and Gabi decide to work together to get their companies back.

Marlena tries to assist EJ in recovering his memory to help Johnny, but he still can’t remember who shot him. We can still feel Marlena’s disdain for EJ because of their history — and now Belle is dating him. It’s always fascinating to see Marlena’s reactions where EJ is concerned.

Johnny continues to feel supported by Chanel — I do wish we got more of Janel! As Johnny prepares for the trial, Marlena faints. What’s going on with her? Sarah checks her out and sends her home. At home, Marlena dreams about the Queen of the Night.

Sarah also has a moment with Rachel, who says her favorite name is MacKenzie — the name she had when she was believed to be Sarah and Eric’s daughter. Brady and Rachel mention that Sophia had a girl, but Sarah knows that’s a lie, since she examined her. Looks like Sophia left one loose thread — and I’m looking forward to this storyline even more!