After a year 2025 filled with memories and emotions,Days of Our LivesOfficially entering 2026, Salem makes a strong statement: it has never been peaceful, and it’s about to become even more chaotic. Peacock’s two-year extension, guaranteeing the series’ survival to season 63, not only provides reassurance to the crew but also opens the door to lengthy storylines filled with tragedy, betrayal, and passion.

Chief writersPaula Cwikly and Jeanne Marie FordAdmittedly, this time they have room to “breathe” and plan big. But don’t confuse thorough preparation with leniency. 2026 is described as the year of irreversible consequences.

MARLENA EVANS: A NEW MISSION AMIDST UNENDING GRIEF

With Marlena EvansThe tragedy doesn’t end after John’s death. The writers reveal Marlena will be drawn into a “search” early in the year, accelerating intensely in the fall with news that could change her life forever. New love? Maybe. But not now. The pain of John still consumes her mind, leaving Marlena living as if she’s walking on the ashes of memory.

DI MERA AFTER THE KIDNAPPING: FALSE UNITY, REAL WAR

The time spent imprisoned in the tomb had bonded together most of the DiMera family… except for…Kristen DiMera and E.J. DiMeraThe family feud escalates to a new level as Kristen’s legal issues erupt, and EJ faces the consequences of the truth about the shooter. Kristen’s anger regarding Rachel and Bayview will cause widespread shock, not only within the family but throughout Salem.

THE SARAH-BRADY-XANDER TRIANGLE: LOVE OR AMBITION?

When Sarah Horton and Brady Blackbegin exploring new relationships,Xander KiriakisTry to move on. But Salem rarely allows a heart to retreat in silence. This triangle promises to be the biggest emotional explosion of the first half of the year.

DANGEROUS ALLIANCES & TOXIC SECRETS

The dark alliance between Rachel Blake and Sophia Choi at Bayview is described with a chilling statement: “Nothing good will come of it.” Meanwhile, Stephanie Johnson and Alex Kiriakis begin the year with joy, but quickly confront devastating existential questions.

EJ – GWEN – CAT: THE OLD APPEAL HASN’T ENDED YET

EJ and Gwen’s plans are disrupted, and Cat Greene’s ISA mission draws her closer to EJ than ever before. Old flames can reignite, and when they do, the consequences can be far more personal.

CHAD, JENNIFER & JACK: REMEMBERING IN PAIN

The kidnappingChad DiMeraThis completely shifts the dynamics between Chad, Jennifer, and Jack. Honoring Abigail’s memory is no longer a ritual, but a struggle to continue living.

SHOCKING CASTING: NEW FACES, NEW CONSEQUENCES

2026 also marks a series of major casting changes: Rachel’s new role began airing in March,Conner FloydA new actress has been playing Chad since April, and a new actress has taken on the role of Ari Hernandez. Each change ignites new conflicts.

Salem enters 2026 with the promise of family, love, mystery – and the familiar stabs in the back, but the biggest question remains:Who will pay the highest price when all long-term plans begin to fall apart?