In the Days of Our Lives Recap for August 12, 2025, Salem’s residents face emotional revelations and courtroom twists. From Javi’s heartfelt connection to Tesoro’s past to Rachel’s testimony that shakes EJ’s case, the episode delivers gripping moments and deepening mysteries.
Leo and Javi Share an Emotional Morning
Over breakfast in the Hernandez kitchen, Leo imagines himself as a movie character in Johnny’s trial, casting Jonathan Bailey as his on-screen self. Javi interrupts his playful fantasy when he receives a heartfelt note from Tesoro’s birth mother. She expresses love for her son and reveals the pain of letting him go.

As the foster dads discuss the loving home they provide, Leo playfully calls Javi a “natural-born daddy.” Javi’s subtle reaction goes unnoticed by Leo but hints at deeper feelings. Next to the baby carrier, Leo peers over Javi’s shoulder as they reread the emotional note, marking a quiet yet powerful moment.
Days of Our Lives Recap: Sophia and Amy Face Tension in the Square
At the Square, Sophia vents to Melinda over the phone about Tate’s wish to see the baby. Amy approaches, hoping to mend their strained relationship. Sophia admits she’d like to rebuild trust but doubts Amy could fully understand her struggles. Amy suggests speaking to a pastor, therapist, or even Dr. Kiriakis about possible postpartum depression. Sophia rejects the idea immediately.

Javi arrives with Tesoro, and Amy is surprised to learn the baby has three foster dads. Trying to be polite, she calls the arrangement “progressive,” while Javi warmly describes their home as “full of love.” The moment turns softer when Amy notices Tesoro resembles Sophia’s brother as a baby, though Sophia quickly ushers her mother away.
EJ’s Hypnosis Brings New Clues, Rachel Testifies in Court
At the Pub, Rachel worries her testimony will send Johnny to prison. Her parents reassure her that multiple witnesses will speak and the truth will come out. When Rachel asks Kristen if she is a suspect, Kristen denies it, though Rachel recalls being awake that night.
Later, Belle fails to leave the penthouse before EJ arrives for his hypnosis session with Marlena. Under hypnosis, EJ remembers telling “her” to put the gun down, revealing the shooter was a woman. This detail could shift suspicion away from Johnny and toward Ava, Gabi, Chanel, or Kristen.

In the courtroom, Johnny apologizes to Belle for involving her in his testimony against EJ. Belle makes it clear there is no forgiveness for what EJ did. The judge orders the jury sequestered due to leaks, leading to Leo’s brief, failed protest.
Kristen comforts a trembling Rachel before she takes the stand. Rachel recounts seeing Johnny point a gun at EJ before hearing a gunshot upstairs. When EJ questions her, she admits there was time for someone else to fire the shot. EJ seizes on this statement, declaring it’s all he needed to hear.
This Days of Our Lives Recap for August 12, 2025, proves that Salem’s tensions are far from easing. With EJ’s hypnosis pointing to a female shooter and Rachel’s testimony creating doubt, the truth feels even further away. Stay with Soap Opera Daily for your next Days of Our Lives Recap.