In today’s Days of Our Lives Recap for April 18, 2025, chaos brews across Salem. Gabi scrambles for legal help, Melinda walks a legal tightrope, and Sami gives Rafe one last goodbye. Meanwhile, Philip’s betrayal sends shockwaves, and Vivian fans the flames. Secrets rise, alliances shift, and no one is safe.
JJ Corners Gabi With Tough Questions
At the Salem PD, JJ digs into Gabi’s case file, determined to uncover the truth. Shawn enters, hoping for a quick update. JJ paints a grim picture. Gabi has no solid alibi. She lied about her whereabouts. Even worse, she never denied shooting EJ. Shawn promises to chase a tip that just came in. If anything pans out, JJ will be the first to know.
Meanwhile, Melinda stops by Gabi Chic to pack up her belongings. She’s just been fired, but Gabi has other plans. JJ’s accusations have Gabi spooked. She hires Melinda to defend her. Melinda warns she doesn’t want to know if Gabi’s guilty. Her job is to protect her client. They bond over their shared dislike of the Kiriakis clan. Melinda agrees to take the case, but tells Gabi to steer clear of JJ — professionally and personally.
Melinda marches into the station and throws her weight around. She warns JJ not to question Gabi without her. Suddenly, Shawn arrives with a crucial piece of evidence — Melinda’s gun. It was pulled from a trash can and may have been used during EJ’s shooting.
Melinda is rattled. She insists she loaned the weapon to Ava for protection. Kristen’s mom had recently attacked her. JJ isn’t convinced. He tries to arrest her, but she avoids handcuffs — for now. The cops will keep an eye on her.
Days of Our Lives Recap: Sami Shares One Last Goodbye With Rafe
At Rafe’s place, he works on the DiMera wiretap setup. Sami drops in to say farewell. She thinks she managed to visit Salem without causing trouble. Rafe bursts that illusion by sharing Jada’s outburst. He confesses he told Jada about his night with Sami. Sami’s jaw drops. “Have I taught you nothing?” she asks.
She encourages Rafe to apologize — maybe even make a video. Then, she softens and reminds him to think things through before acting again. They hug it out, and Sami tells Rafe he deserves happiness. Their goodbye feels final — for now.
Vivian Pushes Philip and Gabi to the Edge
Vivian finds Philip in the square and stirs the pot. She brags about revealing everything to Xander. Philip’s furious. He lashes out, but Vivian stands her ground. She reminds him she’s always been in control.
Later, Vivian meets Gabi at Small Bar. Their encounter quickly turns hostile. Gabi threatens her, but Vivian claims Gabi’s already paid the price. According to her, Philip saw the light and dumped Gabi without hesitation.
Days of Our Lives Recap: Xander Forces the Truth From Philip
Over at the Kiriakis mansion, Xander vents to Sarah. He’s been betrayed again and wants answers. Philip enters and confesses everything. Vivian’s story was true. He admits he helped steal half of Xander’s company. Philip claims he was lost after the mental institution. Vivian’s plan gave him purpose. Sarah’s kindness convinced him to work with Xander. He even felt like part of the family again.
Xander, however, wants nothing to do with him. He demands Philip leave. Before going, Philip sincerely apologizes. He says he never meant to mock Xander — he truly valued their bond. Once he’s gone, Sarah hugs Xander tightly.
Sarah assures Xander she never lied. He believes her, easing her guilt. Elsewhere, Sami bumps into Vivian at the square. They exchange fake compliments and discover they’re on the same flight. Vivian’s thrilled. Sami? Not so much.
Today’s Days of Our Lives Recap showed just how explosive Salem can get. Gabi’s future is in danger, Sami exits with a heavy heart, and Philip’s past finally catches up to him. Vivian continues to stir trouble, while Xander faces more betrayal. For more explosive twists and heartfelt moments, keep reading Soap Opera Daily — your go-to for every Days of Our Lives Recap.