Days of Our Lives Recap: EJ’s Courtroom Humiliation, Marlena Walks Away, and Gabi’s Ruthless Deal
In Days of Our Lives recap for August 18, 2025, Salem was full of heartbreak, betrayal, and tough choices. Stephanie clashed with Steve over Alex, Gabi tightened her grip on Titan-DiMera, Marlena made a personal decision, and EJ’s downfall intensified.
Days of Our Lives Recap: Stephanie Confronts Steve Over Alex’s Secrets
The episode opened with Steve confiding in Kayla about Alex’s reckless past and his investigation into Titan-DiMera. Kayla could only recall Stephanie’s disgust toward Philip’s obsession with power. Steve wanted Kayla’s help, hoping she’d remembered something useful.
Meanwhile, Alex surprised Stephanie with a hard copy of her book, One Stormy Night. She grew emotional, thanking him for his support. However, when Alex left for the office, Stephanie grew suspicious. His mention of an alias struck a nerve, leading her to call her father.
When Steve arrived, Stephanie confronted him about his use of “Daniel Lucas.” She pressed him about why he was investigating Alex’s company, but Steve held back. Their tense exchange left Steve realizing Stephanie knew more than she admitted, deepening his worry about her involvement.
Gabi and Xander Strengthen Their Hold on Titan-DiMera
At Titan-DiMera, Gabi and Xander agreed to keep their kiss under wraps. Their business dynamic, however, stayed complicated. Xander sought parenting advice, only for Gabi to declare he was the real red flag. Her sharp comment hit home, exposing his flaws as both a boss and father.
Later, Alex informed Xander that someone was investigating the merger using an alias. Xander raged at his failure, insisting everything about the deal was above board. Still, Philip’s fraud threatened to unravel them. To fix things, Xander demanded Stephanie’s help in managing public fallout. Alex hesitated, but Xander’s warning was clear: deliver results or face consequences.
Days of Our Lives Recap: Marlena Steps Back for Healing
Belle confided in Marlena, expressing guilt over her involvement with EJ. She admitted John would have been disappointed. Learning about Johnny firing EJ as his attorney pushed Belle to reflect deeper. She vowed to never fall for someone who didn’t respect her again. Marlena reassured her with pride and warmth.
Later, Kayla encountered Marlena at the hospital, where Marlena revealed her decision. She planned to take a leave of absence, only treating a few private patients. For now, she needed to focus on healing herself. Kayla offered support, even suggesting grief groups to help. Marlena felt touched, reminded that she wasn’t alone in her struggle.
EJ’s World Crumbles in Court
EJ’s troubles worsened when Chanel and Johnny clashed with him in court. Chanel urged Johnny to stop fighting the video’s authenticity, but Johnny refused. He remained determined to prove her innocence and represent himself. Chanel worried, but Johnny reassured her with fierce loyalty.
Meanwhile, EJ turned to Tony, lamenting his ruined life. Tony deduced EJ had doctored the video of Chanel. He urged his brother to do something rare—admit wrongdoing and ask forgiveness. EJ resisted, clinging to pride, even as Tony stressed humility might save his bond with Johnny.
Later, Belle confronted EJ, blasting him for his failures and betrayals. Her sharp words cut deep, leaving EJ reeling. Johnny then delivered the final blow, accusing his father of destroying Chanel and forcing an impossible choice. In court, Johnny made his stand: “I chose Chanel.”
Days of Our Lives Recap: Gabi Seals Her Deal
Outside the courtroom chaos, Gabi made her next strategic move. She assured Tony she was close to uncovering information that could derail the Titan-DiMera takeover. To sweeten the agreement, she demanded perks, including access to the DiMera jet, financial security, and protections for Ari.
Satisfied, she signed the deal, strengthening her leverage. Gabi’s move left her one step closer to tightening her power while others in Salem unraveled. Her ambition showed no limits, and with Tony’s backing, she secured herself a powerful safety net.
This Days of Our Lives Recap revealed Salem in turmoil. Stephanie and Steve battled over loyalty, Marlena stepped back to heal, and Gabi solidified her dominance. But EJ’s world crumbled most, as Johnny’s rejection left him shattered. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more Days of Our Lives updates.