Secrets, family tensions, and major life changes take center stage in Salem on Thursday’s episode of “Days of Our Lives.”
Ari puts her trust in Gabi (Cherie Jimenez) as questions continue to surround Liam’s (Hank Northrop) disappearance, while Johnny (Carson Boatman) and Chanel (Ravens Bowens) receive a welcome bright spot during a difficult time. Elsewhere, Abe (James Reynolds) and Theo (Tyler Joseph Andrews) prepare for Lexie’s (Nikki Crawford) return, and EJ (Dan Feuerriegel) begins to notice a change in his sister.
Read on to discover everything that happened in Salem on May 28, 2026.
Ari Continues to Search for Answers
Over at the Hernandez house, Ari is becoming increasingly frustrated after receiving no response to her repeated messages to Liam. When Gabi enters her room, Ari immediately accuses her mother of driving Liam away following their confrontation at the bookstore.
Gabi suggests that Ari may not have known Liam as well as she thought, but Ari remains convinced that her mother’s actions caused him to leave town. Ari then admits she is frustrated after watching everyone around her find love while she continues to come up empty-handed.
The conversation later shifts to Philip, with Gabi admitting that rebuilding trust after it has been broken can be nearly impossible. Before the discussion ends, Ari tells Gabi that she knows she can always trust her, leaving Gabi in the difficult position of keeping her secret about Liam.
Leo Gets an Unexpected Shock
Elsewhere in Salem, Leo runs into Javi and checks in on him after Sophia’s service. Javi explains that he wanted to attend but was unable to because he was working. The conversation turns to Trey and the difficult circumstances surrounding his arrival.
Javi admits that breaking into Johnny and Chanel’s apartment without permission has landed him on desk duty. He acknowledges that he regrets going against protocol. Still, Leo reminds him that his actions helped save Johnny’s life and that many people would consider him a hero.
However, the conversation takes an awkward turn when Javi reveals he is meeting his boyfriend, Gus. Later, Leo watches from a distance as Javi reunites with Gus in Horton Square. Javi even encourages Gus to apply for an opening at his station if he plans to stay in Salem longer. The sight leaves Leo visibly disappointed as he watches the couple walk away together.
Johnny and Chanel Look Toward the Future
At home, Johnny and Chanel continue navigating the uncertainty surrounding her pregnancy and potential cancer diagnosis.
After spending the night worrying about potential complications, Chanel explains that someone needs to remain realistic about the situation. Johnny assures her that he will support whatever decisions need to be made and respects that those choices ultimately belong to her.
The duo talks about their hopes for the future and reminds each other that they are facing the situation together. Despite the difficult circumstances, the episode delivers a bright moment when Johnny feels the baby kick for the first time. The milestone leaves both Johnny and Chanel emotional as they celebrate the moment together.
Abe and Theo Prepare for Lexie’s Return
Meanwhile, Abe and Theo continue adjusting to the changes within their family following Paulina’s departure from the house.
Theo questions what the separation means for Abe and Paulina’s future, but Abe admits that while things are complicated, he still loves his wife. Theo then opens up about his own frustrations, explaining that he feels as though his life lacks direction and stability.
As they discuss the future, the father and son begin preparing for Lexie’s return home. While looking around the house, Theo points out that the family photos no longer reflect their current situation. Together, they replace the photos of Paulina with pictures of Lexie as they get ready to welcome her back.
EJ Notices a Change in Lexie
At the DiMera mansion, EJ checks in on Lexie and updates her on Dr. Rolf’s continued efforts to monitor her recovery.
The conversation eventually turns to Paulina. Lexie tells EJ that Paulina has already walked away, prompting EJ to promise that if she changes her mind, he will make sure she regrets it.
Lexie then questions how Abe could have fallen for someone like Paulina and continues comparing herself to her. As the discussion continues, EJ points out that she sounds more like a DiMera than she may realize.
In the final moments of the episode, Johnny and Chanel share another quiet moment together after feeling their baby kick, while Ari remains unaware that the person she trusts most may be keeping a life-changing secret from her.
As Ari continues putting her trust in Gabi, questions surrounding Liam’s disappearance remain unresolved. At the same time, Johnny and Chanel move forward together, while Lexie’s return continues to create tension for those closest to her. Fans will have to tune in to see what happens next in Salem.
