Salem is heading into the final week of February sweeps with secrets unraveling, loyalties shifting, and danger closing in fast. The drama intensifies

from February 23 through 27 as romantic entanglements combust, kidnappings escalate, and EJ DiMera begins asking the kind of questions that rarely lead anywhere good.

Here’s an in-depth look at what’s ahead — and why this week could permanently alter the landscape of Salem.

Leo Panics as Dmitri’s Fate Hangs in the Balance

Leo Stark finds himself in full crisis mode as he works overtime to prove Dmitri’s innocence in the ongoing kidnapping scandal. With law enforcement tightening its grip and suspicion still looming, Leo takes drastic action — including a bold attempt to remove Dmitri’s ankle monitor so they can flee Salem altogether.

The desperation signals just how high the stakes have become. Dmitri’s alleged connection to the “Dear” kidnappings threatens not only his freedom but Leo’s future as well. Their decision to run could either uncover the truth… or make them look guiltier than ever.

As international leads surface, the pair set their sights beyond Salem, hoping answers abroad might exonerate Dmitri. But powerful enemies are determined to ensure certain secrets never see daylight.

EJ DiMera’s Suspicion Intensifies

Meanwhile, EJ DiMera is in no mood to be manipulated — and he suspects he might be.

After Cat presses him about their shared history in an Italian rehab hospital — including reading Wuthering Heights during his recovery — EJ begins questioning her motives. Is her curiosity emotional… or investigative?

Turning to Rita for answers, EJ probes whether Cat has been digging into his past. With shades of Stefano-level cunning surfacing, EJ is on alert. And when EJ DiMera grows suspicious, it rarely ends well for the person under scrutiny.

If Cat is involved in a larger investigation with Rafe, EJ may already be a step ahead. The DiMera instinct for self-preservation is alive and well.

Romance Turns Risky for Brady and Sarah

Across town, Brady and Sarah attempt to keep their rekindled connection under wraps — but secrecy in Salem is nearly impossible.

After agreeing to explore their relationship quietly, Brady tries to establish boundaries with Kristen and Rachel, making it clear his love life is off limits. That declaration is unlikely to sit well with his ex.

Kristen’s confidence remains unwavering. She has moved back into Brady’s orbit and refuses to believe their story is over. Meanwhile, Rachel may take matters into her own hands, potentially plotting to reunite her parents.

If that happens, Sarah could find herself in emotional crossfire.

Xander’s Complicated Rebound

Xander and Gwen’s chemistry reignites in a purely physical encounter — but their intentions couldn’t be more different.

While Gwen views their intimacy as a possible restart, Xander remains emotionally tethered to Sarah. According to recent interviews, Xander isn’t in a place to pursue anything serious. His actions may be stress relief — but Gwen may interpret them as something more meaningful.

This imbalance is a ticking time bomb. And as Xander’s unresolved feelings continue to surface, Gwen could soon realize she’s fighting for a heart that isn’t available.

Gabby’s Romance Faces Immediate Threat

Gabby returns from Miami glowing after her romantic getaway with Phillip — but trouble is already brewing.

Theo, currently seeing Jada, can’t shake his lingering feelings for Gabby. During a recent date, Jada notices Theo drifting off — and it doesn’t take long to realize he’s thinking about another woman.

To complicate matters, Theo holds potentially damaging information that could disrupt Gabby’s relationship. Meanwhile, Rafe delivers surprising news that could dramatically impact Gabby’s future — possibly confirming that Stefan’s divorce signature was forged, positioning her as a very wealthy widow.

Romance and fortune rarely mix peacefully in Salem.

Kidnappings, Loose Ends, and a Shooting Loom

The kidnapping storyline reaches a fever pitch as henchmen Klause and Yvonne work to protect their employer by eliminating loose ends.

Liam — who has been cooperating with authorities — may be in grave danger after providing a detailed sketch identifying Klause. JJ and Shawn are expected to tail Liam in hopes of uncovering more evidence.

This operation could end violently.

Official spoilers confirm Shawn is shot on duty soon, and with winter conditions setting the scene, the timing suggests it may unfold during this high-stakes pursuit.

If so, the fallout will ripple across multiple families — and potentially shift romantic alliances in its wake.

Stephanie’s Kidnapping Sends Shockwaves

As sweeps climax midweek, Stephanie becomes the next target.

Recently married to Alex in secret, Stephanie believes she has outsmarted her stalker — unaware that a hidden listening device may have exposed everything. When she is kidnapped from the hospital, suspicion quickly turns to Jeremy, who remains in Salem despite prior expectations he would leave.

Whether Jeremy is truly responsible remains uncertain, but accusations will intensify. And with actor Michael Roark set to continue in the role for weeks to come, the storyline is far from resolved.

Holly’s Downfall and Casting Shakeups

Elsewhere, Holly’s behavior spirals as social media humiliation spreads through her sorority circle. Ariana is forced to deliver devastating news that the sorority Holly coveted has chosen Ari instead.

Tate notices Holly’s increasingly erratic behavior but struggles to reach her. Ari, however, calls it out directly.

Behind the scenes, Ashley Puzemis has confirmed she wrapped her final scenes as Holly, meaning a Salem exit looms within the year. Additional casting changes remain unconfirmed, but speculation continues following holiday contract cuts.

Sweeps Crescendo

With February sweeps wrapping midweek, expect emotional crescendos across multiple fronts:

• EJ reveals a shocking discovery involving a mysterious woman in a medical tube.
• Rachel may escalate efforts to reunite her parents.
• Liam’s survival hangs in the balance.
• Stephanie’s kidnapping forces Salem into crisis mode.

Every storyline is accelerating toward explosive confrontation.

The Bottom Line

The week of February 23–27 promises emotional upheaval, romantic betrayals, and life-threatening danger. Leo’s frantic scramble, EJ’s growing suspicion, and multiple characters walking straight into harm’s way signal that Salem is on the brink of transformation.

As secrets surface and loyalties fracture, one thing is certain: by the time sweeps conclude, nothing — and no one — will remain untouched.