April 21, 2025 | By [Your Name]

Salem is once again a hotbed of chaos, confrontation, and conspiracy, as Days of Our Lives continues to unravel one of its most suspenseful arcs in recent memory. From EJ DiMera’s mysterious shooting to Rachel Black’s shocking reveal, the week of April 21–25 promises explosive drama that will leave fans stunned—and eagerly tuning in for more.

EJ Awakens—But Is He Telling the Truth?

After surviving a near-fatal gunshot wound, EJ DiMera finally wakes from his medically induced coma. But instead of offering clarity, his return raises even more questions. Rumors swirl that EJ may intentionally point the finger at the wrong person, throwing investigators off the real shooter’s trail.

Was it amnesia, manipulation, or a calculated move to protect someone close—possibly even his own son Johnny? With the list of suspects including Gabby Hernandez, Rafe Hernandez, and others with DiMera vendettas, EJ’s claims could send the Salem PD down a dark path of false accusations and dangerous consequences.

But here’s the kicker: there’s growing speculation that Rachel Black may have accidentally pulled the trigger that night—an angle that could shake the DiMera and Black families to their core. If EJ knows the truth and covers for her, Salem could be in for one of its most shocking courtroom dramas yet.

Rachel Black’s Secret Rocks Salem

Just as EJ’s case heats up, another bombshell is detonated: Rachel Black’s secret is exposed. Played by newcomer Alice Hoy, Rachel debuts on April 24—coinciding with the start of May Sweeps. All eyes are on her as speculation swirls around her possible involvement in EJ’s shooting.

Could Rachel be the unexpected shooter? If so, who’s protecting her, and how long can the truth stay buried?

Vivian’s Schemes Reach a Boiling Point

Back at Titan, Vivian Alamain continues her reign of terror, holding secrets that could destroy multiple lives. She finally reveals to Xander Kiriakis that Victor’s will was forged, and that Philip Kiriakis had no rightful claim to his share of the company.

With Xander ready to explode and Maggie Horton Kiriakis demanding answers, Vivian’s days in Salem may be numbered. But Vivian, ever the survivor, has plans of her own—and she might not leave quietly. Her past crimes, including baby theft and falsified divorce papers, are coming back to haunt her.

Philip Faces Fallout—and Possible Exit

Philip is cornered. His lies about the forged will and shady dealings with Vivian are finally catching up to him. With Xander on the warpath and Maggie fuming, Philip’s Salem exit seems imminent. But don’t count him out just yet. Sources suggest he may leave only temporarily—and he won’t be gone for good.

Jada, Rafe, and the Tangle of Love and Lies

Jada Hunter finds herself torn between love and betrayal. After Rafe’s hookup with his ex-wife Sami Brady, Jada confronts Rafe and calls out his hypocrisy. The fallout from Rafe’s infidelity—and Jada’s own complicated history with Shawn—adds more heat to an already volatile situation.

Meanwhile, Gabi Hernandez faces suspicion over EJ’s shooting. Although she insists she’s innocent, JJ Deveraux is determined to follow every lead—even if it means digging into Gabi’s dark past and her motive for revenge.

More Salem Shake-Ups Ahead

• Marlena Evans reaches her breaking point as the search for John Black hits a dead end in Estonia.

• Alex Kiriakis and Philip clash bitterly, threatening to permanently fracture the family.

• Stephanie Johnson turns to Kayla for advice, while Kristen DiMera loses control of her empire and faces prison time.

• And in a lighter twist, Tate Black invites Sophia Choi to the school hop, potentially sparking teen drama that contrasts with Salem’s darker turns.

The Bottom Line: In Salem, Truth Is a Weapon

As EJ wakes up, the battle lines are redrawn. Secrets are no longer safe, and lies are becoming more dangerous than the truth. Whether it’s to protect loved ones, maintain power, or survive another day, everyone in Salem is playing a dangerous game—and no one is safe from the consequences.