The first Days of Our Lives episode of 2024 sets the stage for explosive drama and shocking revelations as EJ DiMera and Rafe Hernandez find themselves entangled in a sinister web of secrets, schemes, and unexpected twists.
The episode begins with EJ confronting Rafe at the DiMera mansion. Rafe, armed with evidence of EJ’s illicit dealings, planned to expose him but was blindsided when Arnold, EJ’s accomplice, knocked him unconscious with a heavy object. EJ, seeing an opportunity, drags Rafe’s limp body into a hidden chamber within the mansion. This chilling act raises the stakes, with EJ determined to eliminate any threat to his plans.
Meanwhile, Jada Hunter finds herself caught in the crossfire of EJ’s fury. Accusing her of persuading Paulina Price to have him fired from the Salem Police Department, EJ’s anger leaves Jada shaken. Though Paulina brushes off his threats, Jada grows increasingly worried about what EJ is capable of, hinting at his potential for violent retaliation.
As the tension escalates, Sophia and Tate’s wedding preparations unfold in stark contrast to the darker undercurrents brewing behind the scenes. Sophia meticulously plans an opulent ceremony at St. Luke’s Cathedral, followed by a grand reception at the DiMera mansion. Her Italian-designed gown and the romantic ambiance of white roses and shimmering candlelight paint a picture-perfect wedding. However, her brother EJ’s secret schemes cast a shadow over the joyous occasion.
EJ’s plans to ensure Sophia’s future take a manipulative turn. Armed with incriminating evidence about Tate’s past shady dealings, EJ issues an ultimatum: Tate must sign a prenuptial agreement that heavily favors Sophia or risk having his secret exposed. While EJ claims this is for his sister’s benefit, his actions reveal deeper motives, driven by control and power.
In parallel, Rafe’s disappearance becomes a looming concern. While held captive in the DiMera mansion’s hidden room, Rafe remains defiant, warning EJ that his absence will not go unnoticed. EJ, 
confident in his plans, dismisses Rafe’s threats, ensuring his temporary “absence” serves as both a warning and a means to keep potential adversaries at bay.
Sophia begins to suspect something is amiss when EJ becomes evasive during critical wedding moments. Determined to uncover the truth, she confronts him, but EJ brushes off her concerns with assurances that he’s working to make her big day perfect. Unsatisfied, Sophia turns to Chad, another member of the DiMera family, for answers. Chad, estranged from EJ’s schemes, promises to investigate, hinting at a brewing familial showdown.
As the wedding day approaches, Tate wrestles with his conscience. Learning of EJ’s ultimatum, he fears the fallout from his past being exposed. In a moment of vulnerability, Tate decides to confess everything to Sophia before the ceremony, setting the stage for potential heartbreak and drama at the altar.
This episode of Days of Our Lives masterfully intertwines romance, betrayal, and suspense, leaving viewers on edge. Will Rafe escape EJ’s clutches? Can Tate and Sophia’s love withstand the weight of hidden truths? And how far will EJ go to protect his family’s legacy? The answers promise to unravel in the coming episodes, ensuring an unforgettable start to 2024 in Salem.
