Get ready for a whirlwind of emotions, old wounds reopening, and secrets threatening to unravel in Tuesday’s May 20, 2025 episode of Days of our Lives. Salem is once again teetering on the edge of emotional chaos, and no one is spared from the turbulence that’s about to shake the town. From long-awaited returns to fragile relationships falling apart, today’s episode delivers a deep dive into the tangled lives of its most cherished — and conflicted — characters.

Ariana Horton Returns Home… But Why Now?

The Horton household is buzzing with excitement as Ariana Horton, daughter of Gabi and Will, makes her long-anticipated return to Salem. With her birthday fast approaching, it seems like a joyful family reunion is on the horizon. But beneath the surface lies a growing unease.

Recently, Ariana reached out to her mother with an urgent and surprising request for money — a move that instantly raised red flags for Gabi. When questioned, Ariana downplayed it, insisting she just wanted to come home. Still, Gabi can’t shake the feeling that something deeper is going on.

If Ariana’s intentions were pure, why didn’t Will or Sonny make arrangements for her return? Gabi’s maternal instincts — which have rarely steered her wrong — are once again on high alert. Could Ariana be running from something? Is she hiding a painful secret or simply navigating the rocky waters of adolescence in a high-profile family?

Whatever her reason, Ariana’s homecoming isn’t as simple as it seems. And Gabi is preparing to push for answers — whether her daughter is ready to give them or not.

Fractures Between Gabi and JJ Reach a Breaking Point

As Gabi grapples with her concerns over Ariana, she’s also dealing with escalating tensions in her relationship with JJ. Their fragile connection took a major hit following accusations involving a violent incident with EJ. Though no formal charges were ever filed, the damage was done — and their trust has been on life support ever since.

Now, Gabi’s spontaneous decision to bid on a charity date with Alex Kiriakis at a hospital fundraiser may be the final straw. JJ’s jealousy erupts — not just at the idea of Gabi spending time with another man, but at what he fears might have happened between them. Gabi insists it was harmless, but JJ can’t let go of the thought that something more may have transpired during their glitzy night out.

With every bitter exchange, the once-solid foundation between Gabi and JJ begins to crack. And Ariana’s return only adds another layer of complication. Will they be able to weather another storm together? Or is this relationship on the verge of collapse?

Shawn Leans on Belle in a Moment of Vulnerability

Elsewhere in Salem, Shawn finds himself opening up to someone from his past — Belle. Though no longer married, their shared history lingers between them like a bittersweet melody. As Shawn continues his relentless pursuit of the truth behind his father Bo’s deteriorating condition, the emotional weight becomes too heavy to bear alone.

The mystery surrounding the Versive X compound deepens, and Bo’s prognosis remains grim. In a rare moment of openness, Shawn confesses his fears and guilt to Belle, revealing how deeply he’s been affected by his father’s uncertain fate. Belle, though carrying her own emotional scars, offers support and maybe even something more powerful — a sliver of hope.

Unexpected Alliance: EJ and Paulina Team Up

Across town, EJ DiMera is in need of an unlikely ally — Paulina Price. Their relationship has always been frosty, but EJ is desperate. With his son Johnny caught in a tangled web that includes Chanel, Paulina’s daughter, EJ knows he needs to navigate carefully.

Despite her dislike for EJ, Paulina’s love for Chanel and her fondness for Johnny may just push her to reconsider her stance. A temporary truce between these two polar opposites could serve a greater purpose — helping their children find peace.

But this uneasy alliance is teetering on the edge. One wrong move and the powder keg could explode. Still, amid all the mistrust and sharp edges, there lies the potential for healing, and perhaps — mutual respect.

Javi’s Rage Boils Over — Leo in the Crosshairs

At the local bar, emotions boil over when Javi, overwhelmed by pent-up frustration, targets Leo in a fiery confrontation. The details surrounding their clash remain unclear, but Javi’s fury is undeniable. Whether Leo was truly to blame or simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, he becomes the recipient of Javi’s bottled-up anger.

As harsh words fly and tempers flare, the scene hints at much more beneath the surface — personal pain, hidden betrayals, and emotional exhaustion. Will this encounter spiral into violence? And what truths might be revealed when the dust settles?

Julie’s Quiet Struggle and a Glimpse at Reconciliation

In a more somber corner of Salem, beloved matriarch Julie grapples with the fallout from recent revelations about Doug 3. As she pores over a flyer, visibly shaken, a chance encounter with JJ opens the door to a difficult yet necessary conversation.

Julie’s grief over her husband’s situation is tangled with betrayal and confusion. But JJ gently nudges her toward understanding — maybe even forgiveness. Encouraged by his words, Julie visits the bar where Doug 3 works. Their silent, painful exchange of glances suggests a lingering bond, but the question remains — can they rebuild what was lost?

Rekindled Connections, Lingering Shadows

Even in the quietest moments, the episode hints at deeper connections simmering beneath the surface. Belle, still reeling from her heartfelt talk with Shawn, finds herself in a tender, unexpected conversation with Doug 3. Two souls bruised by past decisions, both seeking comfort in a town that never forgets.

As the episode closes, Salem stands at a crossroads — emotionally charged, full of questions, and teetering between reconciliation and ruin.

Final Thoughts: What’s Next for Salem?

Tuesday’s episode is a testament to what Days of our Lives does best — weaving together heartfelt reunions, emotional reckonings, and shocking revelations. No one escapes unscathed. Loved ones will reconnect, but not without tension. Secrets will emerge, but not without cost. And every decision made will ripple through Salem in ways yet to be seen.

Stay tuned — because in Salem, nothing stays buried for long, and tomorrow always brings another surprise.

Don’t miss the full episode of Days of our Lives, May 20, 2025 — 720HD streaming now.