Marlena Evans struggled to stay composed as John’s rescue drew near, while Xander lost control after learning Philip stole a life-saving drug. This Days of Our Lives Recap reveals emotional goodbyes, family betrayals, and dangerous confrontations on May 16’s explosive episode.
Marlena Lashes Out Over Belle and EJ
At breakfast, Marlena tried to focus on Susan’s cruise sendoff but stayed distracted about John. Her concern grew even more when EJ arrived and Susan insisted he join them. While Susan pushed for a romantic future between Belle and EJ, Marlena could barely tolerate the conversation.
EJ looked uncomfortable as Susan gushed about his bond with Belle. Marlena finally exploded, demanding Susan stop her “yammering.” Though she apologized, Marlena admitted she disliked the idea of Belle and EJ. She insisted it had nothing to do with John’s disappearance but everything to do with parental instinct.
After EJ left, Marlena remained firm. She didn’t trust him with Belle and reminded EJ of one thing—they’d do anything to protect their daughter.
Days of Our Lives Recap: Susan Considers Postponing Her Trip
Susan worried about leaving town with a shooter still out there. Marlena, however, encouraged her to go enjoy the cruise. Still, Susan sensed Marlena had her own suspicions about who may be responsible.
As they talked, Marlena finally got a call from Paul confirming John was found. Exhausted but safe, John was coming home. The relief overwhelmed Marlena and Susan, though Susan shivered—something ominous still lingered in the air.
Sarah and Xander’s Plans Get Derailed
At the hospital, Xander tried keeping things light with Sarah. But news about Philip’s antics ruined the mood. Sarah urged him to be patient. Xander wasn’t convinced. He wanted to shift focus to their postponed honeymoon, calling it a minimoon, and even suggested trying for a sibling for Victoria.
Still, his frustrations grew when Steve and Shawn updated him about the stolen drug. Sarah realized Xander was primarily interested in the hospital acquisition for financial reasons. Xander insisted he didn’t steal anything—but admitted it might’ve been EJ or…Philip.
Days of Our Lives Recap: Philip’s Scheme Comes to Light
After connecting the dots, Xander stormed off and confronted Philip at the Inn. He laid it all out—Philip found the research, stole the drug, and planned to use it for Titan’s gain. Philip confessed. Yes, he did it—for Titan and for Bo. But Xander was enraged. His brother had betrayed him and Bo’s survival hung in the balance. Fueled by fury, Xander warned Philip that this betrayal would cost him everything.
In a chilling moment, Xander rolled up his sleeves and reminded Philip of his past—he was a mercenary. This wouldn’t be a business move. It would be personal. Xander delivered a brutal punch, making it clear—he wasn’t done. He wanted justice and retribution.
Trouble Brews at the Lab
Meanwhile, Steve and Shawn investigated the break-in. The untouched keypad log narrowed it down to an inside job. Kevin Lambert, who had access, quickly became their main suspect.
Outside, Kevin paced nervously near a dumpster, clearly waiting for someone—likely Philip. As suspicion mounted, Kayla and Dr. Russell cornered EJ, convinced he was behind the theft. But Kayla soon rushed off after learning Xander had left Sarah alone.
This Days of Our Lives Recap shows tensions exploding across Salem. From Marlena’s fierce defense of Belle to Xander’s violent rage, secrets came out and relationships unraveled. Don’t miss what’s next—because Salem’s storm is just beginning. For more daily drama, visit Soap Opera Daily.
