Days of Our Lives Recap - Tuesday, July 22, 2025 | Stephanie’s Secret, Sophia’s Lies and EJ’s Power Play

On Tuesday’s Days of Our Lives, Stephanie juggled a scandalous secret while trying to keep her career on track, Sophia spun an emotional web of lies that could shatter Tate, and EJ flexed his power at the hospital with Kayla fuming in the background. Meanwhile, Javi and Leo bonded over baby Tesoro as danger from Doug’s past still lingered.

Sophia | DAYS, Peacock

Stephanie’s Stress Levels Hit Red Alert

Stephanie tried to stay focused on her hospital pitch for EJ, but Alex had other ideas, including a steamy kiss and chatter about their upcoming book launch. The catch? Stephanie’s pen name hides the fact that she’s behind a racy romance novel, and she’s terrified the truth will come out. Alex wanted to use a sizzling excerpt for publicity, which made Stephanie panic and demand Kate cut it completely.

Alex promised nothing would go public without her approval, but she stayed tight-lipped about why the passage set her off. After she stormed out, Alex dutifully called Kate to remove it. Later, a mysterious package arrived for Stephanie, its sender unseen. When she finally made it to Kayla’s office to meet EJ, she struck a deal to work with him under the condition that she stay ethical and loyal to her mom. Kayla walked in just in time to catch the handshake and was not pleased.

Baby Drama and a Trail of Secrets

Across town, Javi and Sarah bonded over the lingering trauma of Holly and Ari’s kidnapping. Javi gushed about baby Tesoro, who already has his heart, but admitted he dreaded saying goodbye. Sarah understood all too well, missing her daughter Victoria who is now with Xander.

Meanwhile in Chicago, Sophia was fresh from secretly giving birth and abandoning the baby at a Salem fire station. With Melinda at her side, she worryied Tate might connect the dots that Tesoro is their child. Melinda assured her she handled everything and it was time to go home. 

Back in Salem, Tate prepared to meet his baby only to have Sophia show up with the devastating lie that their little girl was gone. 

EJ Throws His Weight Around

EJ continued his takeover at the hospital, brushing off Kayla’s fury over budget cuts and her threat to retire early. Kayla demanded either full authority or for EJ to get out of her way, but EJ coolly reminded her he was the boss now. When she stormed out, he took over her office, smirking at his small victory.

Outside the power struggle, Kayla found Sarah mid-blowup with Xander, who is keeping Victoria from her. Kayla offered her shoulder and a joking suggestion to unleash ISA agents on Xander. Sarah admitted she regrets having a baby with him and agreed he might need Marlena’s help to get his rage under control.

Leo Draws a Line

Leo spent the day juggling baby Tesoro and Javi’s questions about his past with Doug. He admitted Doug reminded him of his own messy self but swore Javi has changed him for the better. On a diaper run, Leo ran into EJ, who tried to strong-arm him. To EJ’s surprise, Leo bolted instead of bowing down, leaving EJ irritated.

Back home, Leo confessed the run-in to Javi, who praised him for standing up for himself even as Leo worried about the fallout. Across town, Stephanie arrived home to Alex with big news: she’s now working for EJ. But she also has that ominous mystery package waiting to be opened.

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