Salem ushered in the new year not with fireworks, but with lingering psychological aftershocks that had yet to subside. Days of Our Lives The year 2026 kicks off with a series of heavy and dangerous storylines, as key characters confront the true consequences of loss, betrayal, and wrong choices.

According to revelations from the two chief screenwriters. Paula Cwikly and Jeanne Marie Ford What the audience is about to witness is not just surface drama, but psychological rifts that have been building up throughout the year.

MARLENA EVANS: A MYSTERIOUS JOURNEY AMIDST UNTIL THE PAIN ENDS

With Marlena Evans 2026 is not the time to fall in love again. John’s death still casts a shadow over every decision. Marlena will be drawn into a “mission” from the beginning of the year, and by fall, things accelerate dramatically when she receives news that could completely change her life.

The writers stated bluntly: Marlena’s current pain “is consuming everything.” The thought of a new love is almost nonexistent. Salem may continue to revolve, but Marlena’s heart is not ready to move on.

THE DIMERA HOUSE BEHIND THE GRAVE: UNITY OR UNDERGROUND WAR?

Escaping from captivity in the catacombs did not equate to freedom. The DiMera family carried the burden of trauma, especially…Kristen DiMera, E.J. DiMera, Tony DiMera and Chad DiMera.

While most families come closer together after the tragedy, Kristen and EJ escalate their feud to a new level. The revelation that Rachel, not Kristen, shot EJ forces the legal system to intervene. But Kristen’s anger over her daughter’s admission to Bayview still simmers, promising far-reaching consequences throughout Salem.

LOVE TRIANGLE: SARAH – BRADY – XANDER

If DiMera is a battleground of power, then the relationship between Sarah Horton, Xander Kiriakis and Brady Black. It is an emotional battlefield.

Sarah cannot forgive Xander after the attack on Philip. Despite Xander’s remorse, Sarah’s decision remains unwavering. Brady’s move to the Kiriakis mansion inadvertently draws him into Sarah’s orbit – a place where the past never truly rests. The writers confirm: Sarah and Brady will begin to explore their relationship, while Xander tries to move on, though his heart refuses to let go.

SALE M DOES NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO ESCAPE THE CONSEQUENCES.

The common thread running through all the storylines is a chilling message: Salem doesn’t forget, and Salem doesn’t forgive easily. From Marlena’s pain and Kristen’s anger to Xander’s remorse, every choice leaves a scar.

And as the new year has just begun, the biggest question hanging over Salem is:Who will be the first to collapse when the past comes to demand retribution?