As Days of Our Lives heads deeper into January 2026, Salem is once again on the brink of chaos. The next two weeks promise emotional whiplash, shocking betrayals,

and life-altering decisions that will ripple through families, romances, and power structures across town. From desperate rebounds and corporate wars

to chilling resurrections and heartfelt New Year’s revelations, Peacock’s long-running soap is firing on all cylinders. Here’s a deep dive into the five most jaw-dropping storylines set to turn Salem upside down.

1. Chad and Belle: A Desperation-Fueled Romance That Changes Everything

One of the most unexpected developments coming to Salem is the steamy, emotionally complicated connection between Chad DiMera and Belle Black. At first glance, the pairing feels almost surreal—two people from rival legacies, bound by pain rather than passion. But when examined closely, their chemistry makes perfect sense in the darkest, most soap-operatic way.

Chad remains haunted by the loss of Abigail, the love of his life. Though time has passed, his grief remains unresolved, sharpened by lingering DiMera drama and unresolved anger toward EJ. Belle, meanwhile, is reeling from her own romantic disappointments, struggling to regain her footing after emotional upheaval that has left her questioning her choices and identity.

Their paths cross in the most modern Salem twist imaginable: a dating app. What begins as an attempt at distraction quickly spirals into something far more dangerous. This isn’t about true love—it’s about escape, revenge, and emotional survival. Chad’s attraction to Belle carries an undercurrent of defiance, while Belle finds herself drawn to the familiarity of shared trauma and forbidden intimacy.

But this fragile arrangement is destined to implode. Belle’s moral compass and Chad’s DiMera instincts are on a collision course, and when EJ inevitably learns the truth, the fallout will be explosive. What starts as a fleeting connection may permanently damage alliances, reopen old wounds, and leave both parties questioning whether the comfort they found was worth the cost.

2. Xander’s Jealousy Ignites a Kiriakis Civil War

The Kiriakis family drama escalates dramatically as Xander Cook’s jealousy threatens both his personal happiness and the future of Titan Industries. Following a fiery New Year’s Eve moment between Sarah Horton and Brady Black, tensions boil over, pushing Xander to make a reckless decision that could haunt him.

Consumed by insecurity and fear of losing Sarah, Xander reverts to his old habits, blending business with personal vendettas. His decision to fire Brady from Titan is swift and emotionally charged—but strategically flawed. Rather than asserting control, Xander risks turning Brady into a sympathetic figure in Sarah’s eyes, potentially driving her further away.

Meanwhile, Gabi Hernandez finds herself entangled in the chaos. As her feelings for Philip deepen, she’s burdened by a massive secret: her role in sabotaging the Titan–DiMera merger. With Xander already on edge, the revelation of Gabi’s betrayal could ignite a full-scale corporate and familial war.

By mid-January, the Kiriakis mansion becomes a battlefield where loyalty is questioned, power shifts hands, and long-standing grudges explode. Xander’s attempt to protect his heart may ultimately cost him everything he’s fought to rebuild.

3. Peter Blake’s Resurrection: Mercy, Murder, or Manipulation?

Few returns in Salem history carry the weight—or terror—of Peter Blake’s resurrection. Long presumed gone, Peter awakens just as Kristen DiMera is poised to pull the plug on his life support, claiming mercy. But history teaches us that nothing Kristen does is without motive.

When Peter survives and confronts her, the moment is chilling. His silent grip on her wrist speaks volumes—he knows exactly what she intended. Far from grateful, Peter emerges with clarity, anger, and a hunger for revenge. This isn’t a man seeking peace; it’s a man reclaiming power.

Peter’s survival flips the DiMera hierarchy on its head. Armed with the truth of Kristen’s attempted mercy killing, he gains leverage that could allow him to seize control of DiMera Enterprises. For once, Kristen is no longer the predator but the prey—forced to navigate a dangerous game where one wrong move could destroy her.

Their twisted dynamic, fueled by betrayal and shared history, becomes one of the most compelling arcs of the season. Whether Kristen attempts to silence Peter for good or Peter succeeds in exiling her from Salem remains to be seen—but the stakes have never been higher.

4. Chanel’s Worst Nightmare: A Child in Danger

The emotional heart of the coming weeks lies in Chanel Dupree DiMera’s devastating storyline. Facing a high-risk pregnancy, Chanel is already under immense stress when a terrifying threat emerges: Sophia Choi, a deeply unstable antagonist with a dangerous obsession.

Sophia’s fixation on Johnny and Chanel’s son, Trey, pushes her toward an unthinkable act. Believing she is the rightful guardian, Sophia plots a prison escape that could lead to Trey’s kidnapping. Her delusions make her unpredictable—and terrifyingly determined.

As Chanel senses danger closing in, her maternal instincts collide with fear and vulnerability. The possibility that Rachel Black may be involved adds another chilling layer, especially given her inherited DiMera tendencies. If true, the consequences would send shockwaves through multiple families.

This storyline isn’t just about suspense—it’s about identity, motherhood, and survival. Any harm to Trey or complications with Chanel’s pregnancy would permanently alter her character’s trajectory and redefine relationships across Salem.

5. Leo, Dmitri, and a Kiss That Sparks Chaos

Amid the darkness, Salem delivers its signature blend of romance and intrigue through Leo Stark and Dmitri von Leuschner. Dmitri’s growing presence at the DiMera mansion brings unresolved tension to the surface, culminating in a passionate, secret kiss that threatens to unravel Leo’s relationship with Javi.

Leo has always been his own worst enemy, torn between stability and chaos. Dmitri knows exactly how to exploit that weakness, potentially using Leo as a pawn to uncover DiMera secrets tied to Gwen’s mysterious agenda.

As emotions intensify, the triangle promises fireworks—romantic, comedic, and destructive. Whether Leo chooses the safety of Javi or the intoxicating unpredictability of Dmitri could define his future, while leaving collateral damage in its wake.

A New Year’s Eve That Changes Everything

Beyond the chaos, Days of Our Lives delivers a tender counterpoint with Alex and Stephanie’s unforgettable New Year’s Eve. What begins as quiet longing evolves into a deeply meaningful night marked by family, tradition, and love.

Their near-kiss, interrupted yet sincere, sets the stage for an evening at the Bistro filled with warmth and symbolism. Surrounded by Steve and Kayla—who quietly support the romance—Alex’s carefully planned proposal unfolds in layers, mirroring the patience and intention behind his feelings.

The ring, the letter, and Stephanie’s confident yes transform a public space into a deeply personal moment. As applause fills the room and the clock ticks toward midnight, the engagement stands as a reminder that amid Salem’s chaos, love rooted in respect and shared values still endures.

Final Thoughts

From dangerous rebounds and corporate warfare to chilling resurrections, threatened children, and life-affirming proposals, the next two weeks in Salem promise nonstop drama. Days of Our Lives once again proves why it remains a cornerstone of daytime television—balancing chaos with heart, darkness with hope.