The Days of Our Lives recap for July 23, 2025, brings major turning points. Doug says goodbye to Salem, Sarah and Xander make a life-altering custody decision, and Gabi signs on for a risky DiMera partnership. From broken hearts to shady agreements, emotions run high across Salem.
Sarah and Xander Face the Truth About Their Future
Sarah stopped by to see Victoria, leading to a heartfelt moment with Xander. They placed their daughter in the crib and agreed it was time to talk. Xander admitted that Victoria missed her, but Sarah remained cautious about his temper. She suggested counseling to rebuild trust.
Though defensive, Xander ultimately agreed to see Marlena for anger management. But he had a condition—he wanted a formal custody agreement. That meant legal separation. Sarah looked stunned but nodded. They both knew it was time to protect Victoria through structure and compromise.
Days of Our Lives Recap: Doug Leaves Town as Ari and Holly Deliver the Final Blows
At home, Gabi embraced Ari, thankful she was safe after her run-in with Doug. Ari wanted to confront Doug herself. At the pub, Holly confronted Doug about his lies and confessed her short-lived feelings. Doug admitted he never stopped caring for her, but it was too late.
Ari arrived and delivered a well-deserved slap. She told Doug she had real feelings once—but he used her and risked her life. She made it clear: their connection was over. Doug confirmed he was leaving town to protect everyone. Holly, meanwhile, warned him to tell Julie the truth.
Sophia Tricks Tate, Then Brags About It
Tate grilled Sophia about the baby, only to learn she’d already handed the child over. He exploded in anger, but Sophia calmed him with a carefully planned story. She even produced photos of the adoptive parents and said it was an open adoption.
Brady backed Tate, pushing for more answers. Sophia painted the couple as generous Christian doctors who just wanted love. Eventually, Tate gave in and signed the adoption papers. Sophia thanked him and left—but later made a secret call, admitting she lied and abandoned the baby. Tate, crushed, turned to Holly for support.
Days of Our Lives Recap: Gabi and Tony Cut a Shady DiMera Deal
Tony invited Gabi to the DiMera mansion to discuss a bold business move. He wanted her to dig up dirt on Xander and Philip. At first, Gabi refused—Xander had helped with Ari, and she wasn’t ready to betray him.
But Tony sweetened the offer. She could run DiMera Enterprises. Still, he wanted a say behind the scenes. Gabi accepted the power play, shaking hands and stepping back into the corporate game. Meanwhile, she held Tesoro, thinking about Doug—and maybe missing him just a little.
This Days of Our Lives recap packed emotion, betrayal, and tough decisions. From Sarah and Xander’s custody plan to Gabi’s dangerous alliance with Tony, Salem’s chaos continues to deepen. Catch all your spoilers and drama daily at Soap Opera Daily.
