The week of July 7–11, 2025, on Days of Our Lives brought intense drama, emotional twists, and surprising returns. As Salem heated up, Gwen made a bold comeback, Chanel faced incriminating evidence, and Xander and Sarah’s custody fight took a dramatic turn. Here’s everything you need to know about this action-packed week.
Xander and Sarah’s Custody Battle Turns Ugly
What began as a tender moment between Xander and Felicity quickly gave way to rising conflict. Xander officially moved forward with his bid for full custody of baby Victoria, blindsiding Sarah. Bonnie advised Sarah to play dirty, while Maggie tried to remain neutral. Tensions escalated when Sarah asked to take Victoria on a trip to Bermuda, and Xander outright refused. He accused Sarah of planning to flee, while Sarah pushed back by pressuring Philip to reveal the truth about a past assault in exchange for legal protection—only to be denied.
Gwen Returns with a Shocking Family Heirloom
Gwen Rizczech made her grand return to Salem in unforgettable fashion—wearing Alice Horton’s diamond necklace. Her appearance rattled Julie, who recognized the heirloom instantly. JJ attempted to retrieve the necklace, but Gwen coldly dismissed him, claiming there was no proof of ownership and threatening to expose family secrets.
Before that, Gwen and Xander shared a drunken encounter that almost led to something more. Though Gwen dragged him to her hotel room, Xander left before things went too far. Still, the chemistry—and the chaos—between them remains unresolved.
Chanel Implicated by Shocking Video Footage
Belle received an anonymous memory card containing a video that could change everything. The footage captured Chanel in a heated argument with EJ, where she threatened him—a revelation that could upend Johnny’s legal case. Detective Jada confronted Chanel, who feigned memory loss. Even EJ was visibly shaken after seeing the footage. With this new evidence in play, Chanel could be facing serious consequences.
Leo, Javi, and a Family Emergency
Leo grew increasingly concerned when baby Tesoro wouldn’t stop crying. At the hospital, Kayla diagnosed a possible sensitivity to the baby’s formula. Later, Leo and Javi ran into Gwen, who taunted Leo and exposed parts of his past that unsettled Javi. Despite the tension, Javi reassured Leo that he was doing a great job as a father.
Ari’s Risky Relationship
Despite warnings from Rafe and Gabi, Ari continued to see Doug, who was revealed to have dangerous loan shark connections. Ignoring her family’s concerns, Ari secretly met with Doug and the two spent the night together. Her decisions could come back to haunt her as Doug’s shady past catches up with them.
Philip and Xander Clash at Titan
Philip returned to Titan and immediately clashed with Xander, forcing him into anger management sessions after a series of heated altercations. While they attempted to film a video showcasing a “united front” for the company, the tension between them remained palpable. Johnny eventually intervened, suggesting they take a break before resuming work together.
Romance in the Air
Not everything in Salem was dark this week. Alex finally confessed his love to Stephanie during a charming Fourth of July date in the park. Meanwhile, Felicity played matchmaker, helping Chad and Cat grow closer. These romantic developments brought moments of lightness amid the chaos.
Marlena’s Health and the DiMera Family Feud
Belle remained worried about Marlena, who appeared physically and emotionally drained from the stress of Johnny’s trial. Belle urged her to rest, but tension remained high in the DiMera household. EJ and Tony clashed over the direction of the family legacy—while Tony pushed for business control, EJ focused on his hospital project. Johnny’s legal troubles added even more pressure to an already divided family.
Final Thoughts
The week of July 7–11 was packed with tension, twists, and emotional turmoil. Gwen’s return added a new layer of mystery, the custody battle over Victoria intensified, and Chanel’s legal troubles may be just beginning. As secrets unravel and alliances shift, one thing is certain—Salem is anything but quiet.
