As the summer sun beats down on Salem, the drama only heats up further. Between June 30th and July 4th, 2025, Days of Our Lives delivers a jam-packed week filled with courtroom tension, teenage heartbreak, publishing dreams, and deeply personal revelations. From the DiMera mansion to Horton Square, emotions are running high and no one is safe from the ripple effects of the past. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s coming next.

Johnny in Trouble – EJ Takes a Stand

The week kicks off with a major bombshell: EJ DiMera finds himself once again at the center of controversy, not as a power player—but as a father. His son, Johnny, remains the main suspect in EJ’s own shooting, thanks to a video showing Johnny holding a gun during a heated confrontation. Despite mounting public suspicion and concern from Marlena and Roman, EJ stands firm: Johnny didn’t do it.

EJ’s declaration shocks many. He acknowledges the incriminating video but insists there’s more to the story. He believes in Johnny’s heart, despite their turbulent history, and vows to prove his son’s innocence. As he begins to investigate what the video missed, EJ might find himself on the path to not just saving Johnny—but redeeming their relationship.

Teen Summer Meltdown: Ari, Doug, Holly & Tate

While the adults face life-altering decisions, Salem’s younger crowd is also caught in emotional crossfires. Ari confronts Doug about his shady behavior and secretive texts. Ever since meeting him at her birthday, something hasn’t sat right. Is Doug hiding threatening messages—or maybe a deeper connection with Ari’s friend Holly?

Things come to a head when Holly reconnects with her ex, Tate. If Doug discovers Holly is getting close to Tate again, jealousy might boil over. With Ari pushing for the truth and Doug potentially spiraling, the love triangle is poised to implode just as fireworks light up the Fourth of July.

Stephanie’s Big Break? A Manuscript & A Make-Or-Break Moment

Stephanie Johnson’s novel, One Stormy Night, has traveled through Salem, charming readers and stirring interest. Now, with the help of her supportive boyfriend Alex, she may finally have a shot at publishing her book.

Alex pitches a plan to bring Stephanie’s work to the masses. It’s a dream come true, but will the pressure of publicity strengthen their bond—or stretch it thin? For Stephanie, this moment could mark the start of a new chapter, both professionally and romantically.

Leo & Javi: A Sparkling Surprise

In lighter news, Leo and Javi continue to bring flair and fun to Salem. Midweek, Javi has something big in store—possibly a romantic surprise that could change the course of their relationship. As rumors swirl about Leo crossing over to another soap, fans are left to wonder if this is a sweet send-off or the beginning of something bigger. Either way, expect laughs, love, and lavish declarations.

Friday July 4: Arrests and Family Torn Apart

The week’s final episode, airing on Friday July 4th, brings Salem to a breaking point. Johnny is arrested in broad daylight by Detective Jada Hunter. Salem is stunned as Johnny is handcuffed in the town square—especially with EJ watching helplessly. For the man who was shot, seeing his son arrested may be more painful than the bullet wound.

Johnny had earlier admitted to Roman and Marlena that he contemplated harming EJ but ultimately walked away. The confession, though honest, painted him in a dangerous light. Jada believes she has enough to proceed, but EJ continues to defend his son, even as Johnny is led away in cuffs.

A Race Against Time – Who Really Shot EJ?

Despite the mounting evidence, there’s still a huge question hanging in the air: who actually pulled the trigger? Theories abound. Rachel Black has been acting unstable lately—could she be involved? Could someone from EJ’s complicated past be seeking revenge? Marlena and Roman seem convinced there’s more to the story, and their quiet suspicions may just crack the case wide open.

A Mysterious Deal Between Brothers

Meanwhile, away from the chaos, two brothers strike a secretive deal that may have long-term consequences. It may seem like a small scene, but in Salem, even whispered agreements can explode into front-page scandals. Is this a business arrangement? A buried family pact? Or something even more sinister? Viewers will want to pay attention to every detail.

Final Thoughts: Loyalty, Legacy, and Lives on the Line

This week on Days of Our Lives, no character walks away untouched. Whether it’s EJ fighting to save his son, teenagers wrestling with love and betrayal, or Stephanie trying to share her heart with the world, each storyline brings deep emotional stakes.

Johnny’s arrest signals the start of what could be a long legal saga. Meanwhile, EJ’s commitment to family over power redefines his character. And the question remains—will the real shooter be found before Johnny pays the price?

Add in blossoming romance, bold career moves, and emotional confessions, and you’ve got one of the most explosive weeks Salem has seen in months. Days of Our Lives fans, buckle up—this ride isn’t slowing down any time soon.