The Week of May 26: Salem Prepares for John’s Funeral and Characters Return | Days of Our Lives

The week of May 26–30 promises to be a deeply emotional chapter in Days of Our Lives history, as Salem braces for the heartbreaking loss of one of its most iconic heroes. John Black’s tragic death sends shockwaves across the town, leaving every corner of Salem mourning. As the show pays tribute to a beloved character who has long symbolized courage, loyalty, and love, fans can expect a poignant mix of sorrow, reunions, and unexpected emotional breakthroughs.

A Hero’s Final Act

John Black, portrayed for decades by the legendary Drake Hogestyn, meets a devastating fate that forever alters Salem’s landscape. After a mission to bring him home successfully ended in a heartfelt reunion with his wife Marlena Evans, joy quickly turns to tragedy. In a moment of selfless heroism, John sacrifices his life to save Bo Brady during a perilous crisis. The loss hits especially hard because John had only just returned to the people who love him—his wife, his children, and an entire town that viewed him as a pillar of strength.

His death is not just the end of a character; it’s the closing of a monumental chapter in Days of Our Lives. Marlena is inconsolable, devastated after fighting so hard to bring John back only to lose him again. The town collectively mourns alongside her, reeling from the sudden loss of a man who had become synonymous with honor and heart.

Grief and Guilt Collide

Bo’s miraculous survival is bittersweet. While Hope Brady and their daughter Ciara are relieved and grateful to have Bo alive, that relief is weighed down by overwhelming guilt. The reality that John’s death was the price for Bo’s life hangs over them like a storm cloud. Bo, haunted by John’s final moments, struggles with guilt that promises to follow him in the weeks ahead. The cost of his survival is something that may haunt Salem’s residents—and the audience—for some time.

Meanwhile, Marlena, Brady Black, Belle Black, Steve Johnson, Roman Brady, and Caleb Brady all grapple with their own grief. The emotional toll of John’s death is undeniable. His presence in their lives wasn’t just significant—it was grounding. Without him, their world feels off-kilter.

Sparks in the Shadows of Grief

Amidst the sorrow, a glimmer of unexpected hope emerges. Doug Williams III and Ariana Horton share a surprising moment of connection after an unplanned encounter. Though they barely know each other, something about their interaction feels genuine and stirring. For Doug, who has endured his fair share of personal hardships, Ariana brings a breath of fresh air. She too finds herself drawn to him in a way she didn’t anticipate.

Their budding romance is tentative and uncertain, made all the more delicate by the emotional whirlwind Salem is going through. Still, their shared glances suggest that something meaningful might be on the horizon—though as viewers know, nothing in Salem is ever simple. Will love blossom in the shadow of loss, or will old wounds complicate a new beginning?

Saying Goodbye: Funeral Preparations Begin

Salem turns its attention to honoring John Black’s life with a funeral that promises to be one of the most powerful episodes in recent memory. The memorial is scheduled for early June, but preparations begin this week. As the town gets ready to lay John to rest, familiar faces start returning to the canvas, setting the stage for long-awaited reunions.

First among them is Sami Brady, portrayed once again by Alison Sweeney. As Marlena’s daughter and someone who long viewed John as a father figure, Sami’s return is emotionally charged. Alongside her comes her son Will Horton (Chandler Massey), who returns to support his family and pay tribute to the man who was like a grandfather to him.

Carrie Brady, another key returnee, steps back into Salem with a deep sense of purpose. As Roman’s daughter and Marlena’s stepdaughter, Carrie shares a rich history with John. Her presence adds gravitas and emotional depth to the upcoming funeral scenes, reconnecting her with old friends and family members.

Hope and Ciara Brady also find themselves at the emotional center of these events. Although grateful that Bo survived, they mourn the enormous cost of his rescue. Ciara, in particular, faces conflicting emotions as she supports her family and tries to honor the man who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Legacy and Returnees

Other key returns include Paul Narita (Christopher Sean), John’s son, who is expected to bring with him quiet strength and profound sadness. His calm demeanor contrasts the emotional chaos of the week, making his appearance both grounding and stirring. Expect flashbacks and heartfelt tributes as Paul reflects on his bond with his father.

Andrew Donovan (Colton Little) also makes his way back to Salem, carrying with him not only family connections but potential ties to ongoing ISA-related storylines that may unfold after John’s death. His return suggests that the aftermath of John’s sacrifice may carry long-term ripple effects.

Roman Brady, Steve Johnson, and Caleb Brady—who have remained in Salem—will play central roles in the funeral. These men, who fought alongside John and shared decades of friendship and trials, must now navigate life without him. Their grief is palpable, and their roles in the memorial will no doubt be deeply affecting.

An Enduring Legacy

Even in death, John Black continues to shape the lives of those he leaves behind. From the Brady Pub to the hospital halls where Marlena works, his memory lingers. His courage, integrity, and loyalty are etched into the town’s fabric. While soap operas are no strangers to tragic exits, this loss feels especially permanent—and deeply personal for longtime fans.

Drake Hogestyn’s portrayal of John Black since the 1980s has made him more than just a character—he became family to the Days of Our Lives audience. As rumors swirl about the actor’s future with the show, this farewell feels like a true goodbye. For fans, it’s a moment of mourning, celebration, and heartfelt nostalgia.

Final Thoughts

The week of May 26 will go down as one of the most unforgettable in Days of Our Lives history. With emotional goodbyes, surprise reunions, and new romantic sparks, Salem is forever changed. John Black’s death may be the end of an era, but his legacy endures—in every tear shed, every memory shared, and every act of love and bravery inspired by the man he was.

Get ready for a powerful week of television. This is more than just a funeral—it’s a tribute to a legend.