Gabi Hernandez Faces Shattering News

The hour opens on a somber note as Rafe Hernandez is forced into one of the most painful roles imaginable: bearer of devastating news to his sister. Gabi, a woman known

for her fiery resilience and unyielding ambition, immediately senses something is wrong before Rafe even speaks. His hesitation, his guarded tone, and the heaviness

in his eyes tell her this moment will change everything. When Rafe finally delivers the truth, the impact is immediate and profound. All signs point to the confirmation of Stefan DiMera’s death—news

that lands like a seismic shock. Stefan was never just another chapter in Gabi’s turbulent romantic history. He represented unfinished business, unresolved love, and a future that always felt just out of reach. His death forces Gabi to confront grief layered with regret, anger, and unanswered questions.

Rather than exploding in rage, Gabi’s initial response is quiet and raw. The silence speaks volumes. As the reality settles in, her grief begins to evolve—transforming into suspicion and resolve. In Salem, death is rarely straightforward, and Gabi refuses to accept vague explanations. She begins demanding answers, convinced there is more to Stefan’s fate than anyone is willing to admit. Rafe, torn between his duty as a lawman and his instinct as a protective brother, urges caution, knowing that Gabi’s determination could place her squarely in danger.

This revelation becomes the emotional cornerstone of the episode. Stefan’s death sends ripples through Salem and the DiMera family alike, reopening old wounds and threatening to ignite new power struggles. A cornered Gabi Hernandez is never predictable—and that volatility promises major fallout in the weeks ahead.

Steve and Kayla Reflect on Love and Survival

In a quieter but deeply resonant storyline, Steve and Kayla Johnson take down their Christmas decorations, marking more than just the end of the holiday season. For Salem’s ultimate supercouple, this ritual becomes an opportunity to reflect on a year defined by survival, loyalty, and enduring love.

Their scenes are filled with warmth and nostalgia, but also a clear-eyed awareness that storms still lie ahead. As they pack away ornaments tied to decades of shared memories, Steve and Kayla recalibrate their partnership, grounding themselves in what has always sustained them—trust and commitment. Their journey serves as an emotional anchor for viewers, reminding us that even in chaos, steadfast love can endure.

Alex and Stephanie’s Fragile Bubble of Intimacy

Across town, Alex Kiriakis and Stephanie Johnson cling to a rare moment of privacy as the outside world hurtles toward New Year’s Eve. There is an urgency to their intimacy, a sense that what they share in the quiet may not survive the harsh light of what’s coming next.

Their connection feels genuine, but uncertainty lingers. Is this the foundation of something lasting, or simply a temporary refuge from looming complications? Alex, ever the romantic showman, surprises Stephanie with one final, unexpected gift—one that appears to symbolize a promise rather than a material object. It raises the stakes for their relationship, setting expectations that could either deepen their bond or lead to a painful fall.

Marlena and Roman: A Bond That Endures

At the Brady Pub, Marlena Evans seeks solace in the presence of Roman Brady. Even Salem’s most trusted psychiatrist needs a steady shoulder, and Roman provides exactly that. Their conversation—rooted in decades of shared history—touches on the emotional weight Marlena carries as she prepares to officiate Leo and Javi’s wedding, while also grappling with the escalating DiMera crisis.

Roman’s calm, grounding perspective offers Marlena clarity, reinforcing one of the show’s most enduring relationships. Their bond, built on respect rather than romance, remains a pillar of stability in a town constantly on the brink of collapse.

Kate Roberts Prepares for War

Meanwhile, Kate Roberts gathers her sons Lucas and Philip for what appears to be a peaceful family dinner—but make no mistake, this is strategy as much as sentiment. Kate senses the DiMera family is on the verge of civil war, and she intends to ensure her lineage is prepared.

This moment of maternal calm masks a sharp tactical mind. Kate understands that survival in Salem requires foresight, alliances, and unwavering resolve. Her quiet preparation underscores the shifting power dynamics that will soon come to a head.

Leo and Javi’s Wedding: Love in the Shadow of Danger

As the week progresses toward New Year’s Eve, anticipation builds for the wedding of Leo Stark and Javi Hernandez—the most talked-about social event of the season. Their ceremony is a stunning blend of glamour and sincerity, transforming the venue into a winter wonderland of gold and silver.

Marlena officiates, lending gravitas to a moment that feels genuinely hopeful. Leo, once defined by schemes and self-interest, appears profoundly changed by love. Javi is supported by his family, including Gabi and Rafe, while Leo’s side features Gwen and Chad DiMera, creating a charged mix of loyalty and tension.

When the vows are exchanged, even Salem’s most hardened cynics are moved. For a fleeting moment, love triumphs over betrayal. Yet the shadow of the DiMera family looms large, reminding viewers that joy in Salem is often fragile.

A DiMera Life-or-Death Decision

While wedding bells ring, the machines at University Hospital tell a far grimmer story. Peter DiMera lies on life support, his fate hanging by a thread. Kristen DiMera sits at his bedside, raw with desperation, clinging to hope with fierce devotion.

In stark contrast stands EJ DiMera, coldly pragmatic as he argues that the family must face reality. His suggestion to remove Peter’s breathing tube ignites a brutal clash between logic and love. This decision is about far more than Peter’s life—it’s a struggle for control within the DiMera empire, one that could permanently alter the family’s balance of power.

Unfinished Business and Rekindled Sparks

Adding to the emotional complexity, Chad DiMera and Cat Cross paths at the hospital in a painfully intimate moment. Their accidental collision leads to a charged exchange—hands brushing, eyes locking, and emotions resurfacing. Though both claim to have moved on, their connection remains undeniable, complicating Chad’s already turbulent life.

A Turning Tide for Salem

The December 29 episode masterfully weaves joy and devastation, signaling a major narrative shift for Days of Our Lives as 2026 approaches. The wedding of Leo and Javi represents hope and modern storytelling, while Stefan’s death and Peter DiMera’s crisis pull the show back to its classic high-stakes roots.

As Salem prepares to count down to midnight, the town is steeped in unresolved passion, grief, and anticipation. Whether Gabi seeks justice, the DiMera family fractures, or love finds a way to survive, one thing is certain: the new year will begin not with a whisper, but with a bang.