Days of Our Lives Recap - Thursday, June 19, 2025 | Johnny Faces the Daddy Dilemma While Chanel Gets Shut Down and Xander Plays Dirty

It was a day full of drama and delusion in Salem as Thursday's episode of Days of Our Lives brought the heat. Johnny found himself caught between anger and nostalgia with EJ, Chanel got a medical curveball she did not order, and Xander decided to stir the pot with both Sarah and Philip while acting like he's the one being reasonable. Meanwhile, Marlena was unraveling, and Belle made a choice that might have her regretting everything by next week.

Johnny and EJ | DOOL, Peacock

Johnny Wants to Hate EJ, But Can He Really Quit His Daddy?

Johnny found a Father’s Day present waiting for him, courtesy of Chanel, but that celebration was cut short by EJ showing up to play the apologetic father. EJ swore he wasn’t going to force his way back into Johnny’s life anymore and declared himself officially stepping back. Cue Johnny’s face doing emotional gymnastics. EJ gave him the whole "if you love something, set it free" speech, and for a minute, it actually worked. Mariah Carey's 'Butterfly' anyone? Johnny admitted he’s always known EJ loved him. But is he ready to forgive? Unclear. What is clear is that Chanel overheard the whole heart-to-heart and is very much not ready for Johnny to be back in Team EJ.

Chanel Gets a Reality Check in the Exam Room

Chanel was already stressed when she ran into Paulina at the hospital, but it got worse once Sarah dropped some medical truth bombs. Sure, she’s cancer-free for now, but trying for a baby would not be smart. It could mask a recurrence and throw her right back into danger. Chanel handled it like a champ on the surface, but that devastated stare said everything. Later, she admitted to Paulina that maybe Johnny’s not ready to be a dad anyway. Girl, the universe is practically screaming, "Pause!"

Xander Stirs the Custody Pot and Corners Philip

Xander stormed into Sarah’s hospital room ready to announce he wants custody. Sarah made it very clear that her answer is “absolutely not,” but he warned her it’s either mutual agreement or court drama. Then he went to pay Philip a visit, because of course he did. Flashback alert: Xander had previously threatened Philip to keep his mouth shut or risk losing his Titan inheritance. Present day Xander tried a little charm, a little regret, and a whole lot of manipulation. Philip threw in a half-hearted apology of his own, but the tension was thick. Oh, and for the record, Xander made it very clear Sarah can never know Philip’s the one who outed her letter stunt. That secret’s going to explode eventually.

Marlena Breaks Down While Belle Doubles Down

Over at Marlena’s place, the mood was heartbreak and dead flowers. She couldn’t even look at a vase without sobbing, and John’s baseball cap became her new emotional support item. Belle came home to find her mother a complete wreck and offered some comfort. But Marlena wasn’t the only one with issues. Belle confessed she’s rethinking her entire relationship with EJ in the wake of John’s death. Marlena wasn’t exactly team EJ but told her daughter to go with her heart. Apparently Belle took that advice literally, because she marched right over to the DiMera mansion, declared her love, and kissed EJ. We’ll see how long that lasts.

Honorable Mention Chaos: Rafe Plays Spy and Jada Raises an Eyebrow

Over at the police station, Rafe and Jada had a moment. He shared new info about EJ’s shooting and confessed to planting a camera at the mansion. Jada gave him a look that said “Really?” but she let it slide because they need the footage. Their vibe screamed “We’re not over this chemistry,” and Rafe low-key asked if they could be friends again. Jada didn’t say no.

This episode of DOOL was packed with power plays, heartache, and emotional whiplash. One minute it was Father’s Day cards and pancakes, and the next it was courtroom threats and whispered hospital secrets. Salem, we love you!

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