Days of Our Lives Preview: DON’T LEAVE US NOW – May 26 to May 31

Next week on Days of Our Lives, brace yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions unlike anything we’ve seen in recent memory. The week of May 26 to May 31 is going to be a heart-wrenching stretch filled with shocking truths, unexpected betrayals, and devastating goodbyes. If you’ve been a longtime viewer, you know that Salem has a way of ripping your heart out—and next week, it just might.

Let’s begin with the startling development involving young Rachel. In a confession that sends shockwaves through the town, she reveals she saw Johnny holding a gun. It’s a revelation that threatens to unravel more than just one life. Salem is notorious for its fast-moving rumors, and once this news circulates, all eyes turn to Johnny.

Kristen, fiercely loyal to her family and always one to act strategically, immediately suspects foul play—and she sets her sights on Johnny as the possible shooter of her brother. On the surface, it seems plausible. But something doesn’t quite add up. Could Johnny really be the culprit? Or is he protecting someone else entirely?

As more layers of the mystery unravel, suspicion begins to drift back to Rachel herself. Could it be that this innocent child was the one who pulled the trigger? And did Johnny, in an act of compassion and loyalty, decide to take the fall to protect her? It’s a terrifying possibility, but in Salem, where the lines between innocence and guilt are often blurred, nothing is off-limits.

Elsewhere, Maggie surprises everyone by turning her support toward Philip instead of Xander. Given her deep history with both men, this move feels like a betrayal to many—especially considering her complicated maternal ties to Xander. Her choice will have far-reaching consequences. If Philip regains consciousness, will he point the finger at his own brother? These fractures within the family could deepen beyond repair if someone doesn’t step in to stop the damage.

And just when you think it can’t get any more emotional, Days of Our Lives hits us with a farewell that fans have dreaded but knew would come someday.

John Black—iconic, heroic, steadfast—is leaving us.

John has been a pillar in the Days universe, weathering everything from brainwashing and near-death experiences to impossible love stories and family betrayals. But this time, there is no miracle cure or dramatic twist to bring him back. This goodbye is final.

The loss of the actor who brought John Black to life feels like a personal one for viewers. His steady voice, calm presence, and unwavering moral compass have anchored the show for decades. Watching his final scenes with Carrie, Eric, Will, and especially Abe will be a powerful, tear-filled experience. These moments feel more like a heartfelt tribute than just another scripted goodbye. The air of grief hangs heavy—not just in the characters, but in all of us who have watched John’s journey.

And yet, amid the emotional gravity, one can’t help but notice the absence of several important faces during this farewell. Tate, Ally, Ari, Andrew, and even Leo are notably missing. While some may argue that Leo had no place in such a moment, others will remember how John always treated him with dignity and kindness. John never judged Leo, and in a world like Salem, that sort of acceptance is rare and meaningful. Family isn’t just about blood—it’s about connection, compassion, and showing up when it counts. Leo should have been there. His absence is felt.

So yes, prepare yourself. This upcoming week will not be easy. It’s one of the heaviest stretches Days of Our Lives has delivered in a long time. But if we’ve learned anything over the years, it’s that the audience is just as resilient as the characters we love. We’ve laughed with them, cried for them, celebrated their victories, and grieved their losses. And through it all, we’ve stayed loyal—because this show has a unique ability to reflect the very things that make life beautiful and heartbreaking all at once.

It’s not just about dramatic twists or shocking revelations. It’s about the emotional core—the reminder that love can be complicated, families can be messy, and goodbyes never get easier.

So keep your tissues close, because Salem is about to shake us to our core. We’re not just watching a show—we’re saying farewell to a piece of television history. And while our hearts may be heavy, we know one thing for sure: we’re not done crying yet.