As the drama intensifies in Salem, the week of May 12–16 on Days of our Lives promises shocking twists, emotional reckonings, and dangerous gambits that threaten to shatter the lives of some of our most beloved characters. From hidden guilt to underhanded theft, the tangled web of secrets grows ever tighter—and no one is safe.

Johnny’s Guilt: A Son’s Secret Becomes a Heavy Burden

Johnny DiMera (Carson Boatman) has been spiraling ever since EJ’s shocking shooting—and next week, Chanel begins to sense that something is deeply off. The cracks in Johnny’s façade widen as he continues to act erratically, consumed by guilt and haunted by what might be a terrible secret. Could it be true? Did Johnny pull the trigger on his own father?

Chanel (Raven Bowens), still reeling from her adoption drama and unable to reconcile with Johnny, leans on Abe for comfort. But as she watches Johnny unravel, she begins to suspect there’s more to his behavior than just family drama. Guilt has a way of festering, and Johnny’s conscience seems to be eating him alive. While we still don’t know the full truth of what happened that night, the implication is chilling.

Meanwhile, EJ (Dan Feuerriegel) is convinced his son is responsible—but in a stunning twist, he’s determined to protect Johnny at any cost. Whether out of paternal love or twisted loyalty to the DiMera name, EJ is prepared to throw anyone under the bus to shield his son. But how long can he keep the truth buried before the weight of deception crushes them all?

Shawn’s Risky Robbery: Stealing for the Greater Good?

Shawn Brady (Brandon Beemer) is pushed to the brink as the hospital teeters on the edge of collapse and Kayla’s steadfast refusal to accept EJ’s money threatens to doom everything. Desperate times call for desperate measures—and next week, Shawn teams up with Steve (Stephen Nichols) in a bold and reckless heist.

Their target? A stash of a groundbreaking but experimental drug developed by Dr. Russell, which both EJ and Kayla have been fiercely battling over. With Kayla placing all her hopes on this research and EJ determined to claim it for himself, Shawn and Steve take matters into their own hands—breaking the law to do what they believe is right.

Will they get away with it? And more importantly, will the stolen drug be enough to turn the hospital’s fortunes around? The consequences of their actions may ripple far beyond the walls of the hospital, setting off a chain reaction that puts everyone they care about in jeopardy.

Kayla on the Defensive: Accusations and Ambition

Kayla Brady (Mary Beth Evans) finds herself in the eye of the storm as tensions at the hospital escalate. With the facility in dire financial straits, she’s adamantly against accepting EJ DiMera’s investment—even if it could save lives. Instead, she’s banking on Dr. Russell’s promising but unproven medical research to secure the future.

But Kayla’s principled stand is about to come under scrutiny. As rumors swirl about the theft of the drug, EJ may seize the opportunity to discredit her, possibly using the board to push her out entirely. Her refusal of DiMera money may be seen not as integrity, but recklessness—especially if the hospital collapses on her watch.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for Kayla, and she’ll need all her grit and resolve to navigate the coming storm.

Love, Lies, and Second Chances: Romance in the Air

Amidst the chaos, romance continues to blossom—and falter. Chad (Billy Flynn) and Cat share more screen time this week, their chemistry growing undeniable despite Chad’s insistence that they’re “just friends.” But with EJ also in the picture, a tangled triangle is forming.

EJ initially refused to give up his date with Cat, but his brotherly rivalry with Chad might take a surprising turn. When Chad presses EJ on his true feelings, EJ counters by suggesting Chad pursue her instead. The air is thick with tension and unspoken longing—and with all three featured in the show’s 60th anniversary photos, it seems clear this love triangle is just heating up.

Meanwhile, Sarah (Linsey Godfrey) and Xander’s (Paul Telfer) honeymoon plans are upended after Sarah suffers an allergic reaction. Their detour to the hospital sets the stage for deeper developments in the “Zarah” storyline, which continues to unravel in unexpected ways.

Johnny’s Crisis Deepens, Felicity’s Heart Breaks

Back in the DiMera orbit, Marina tries to offer Johnny support, attempting to soothe his tormented soul. But his issues with EJ—and his own sense of culpability—may be more than she can heal. Later, Marina also has a telling conversation with EJ at the hospital. Could they be conspiring or simply confiding?

Elsewhere, young Felicity faces heartbreak, and both Chad and Cat are there to console her. Could this indicate they were on a date when she needed them most? The town square has become a stage for romantic entanglements—and heartbreaks.

Leo’s Investigation, Gabby’s Fury

Leo (Greg Rikaart) refuses to let the mystery of EJ’s shooting fade into the background. Despite criticism and growing pressure, he remains fixated on uncovering the truth. As he probes deeper, he finds himself caught in the crossfire between Gabby’s rage and the growing list of suspects—many of whom are connected to him personally.

Jada (Elia Cantu) clears herself from suspicion, revealing to Shawn that she had secured her weapon before heading out for a night of drinking. Gabby, meanwhile, informs Rafe that Ava couldn’t have been the shooter either. The circle tightens—and the killer remains at large.

The Next Generation: Prom Night Surprises

In a lighter but equally intriguing subplot, young love is stirring. Doug 3, under Roman’s watchful eye, is thriving and slowly building a new future. With Tate unable to attend prom with Sophia, might Holly extend an invitation to Doug 3 instead? High school romance meets classic soap opera awkwardness—expect plenty of teen drama and heartbreak.

Final Thoughts: A City on the Brink

As Salem stands on the precipice of upheaval, the bonds of family, loyalty, and love will be tested like never before. From Johnny’s haunting guilt and Shawn’s dangerous heist to Kayla’s professional peril and the tangled romantic triangles, next week’s Days of our Lives will be a powder keg of emotion and suspense.

Will EJ’s suspicions about his son destroy their relationship—or cement their dark alliance? Can Shawn and Steve escape unscathed with their stolen miracle cure? And will Kayla’s gamble on principle cost her everything?

Tune in to find out. The clock is ticking in Salem—and when secrets explode, no one is ever the same.