Days of Our Lives plots new twists in Salem with returns, recasts and a chess mystery

The Peacock soap opera Days of Our Lives is set for a busy week of June 22‑26. Long‑time fan‑favorite couple Paul Narita and Andrew Donovan return to Salem, with Paul arriving at his step‑mother Marlena Evans’ door and Andrew warning ISA agent Cat Greene against getting too close to EJ DiMera. Several characters make exits or debuts, including Al Calderon’s final appearance as Javi Hernandez and the introduction of Jacob Martinez as the new Javi.

A central storyline revolves around Stefano DiMera’s chess set, which has long been a symbolic inheritance for Marlena and John Black. Chad DiMera and Belle Black discover an Italian banknote inside the set, while speculation grows about a “missing pawn.” Theories point to Brady Black, John’s son, as the possible new pawn in Stefano’s lingering game. The investigation gains urgency as Xander Kiriakis is asked to retrieve DiMera Pharmaceuticals records.

Other plot threads include ongoing investigations into overdose deaths by Brady and Sarah Horton, a drug‑related crisis affecting Holly Jonas, and personal confrontations such as Liam Selejko’s emotional farewell to Ari Horton and EJ DiMera’s anger toward Kristen DiMera over a recent betrayal. The week also features several supporting character moments, including Belle’s memory‑lane reflections and Stephanie Johnson’s empowering decisions.

Overall, the upcoming episodes blend character returns, new mysteries, and heightened drama, promising a packed storyline slate for viewers.