Old sparks, deep-seated grievances, and volatile romantic fallout are taking center stage in Salem. According to Days of Our Lives spoilers for Thursday, August 20, 2026, Stephanie Johnson finds herself feeling completely cast aside as Alex Kiriakis directs his full attention elsewhere, prompting her to seek comfort in a familiar embrace. Meanwhile, stubborn grudges divide families, and a emotional reunion forces multiple couples to reevaluate their futures.
Stephanie Leans on Chad as Alex Focuses on Joy
Stephanie Johnson is feeling severely at loose ends these days. Her partner, Alex Kiriakis, is dividing virtually all of his time between taking care of Kelsey and comforting Joy. Alex remains heavily focused on reassuring Joy that her upcoming surgery will be a complete success and that she will be back up on her feet in no time at all.
Feeling neglected in her current situation, Stephanie turns to Chad DiMera for help and support. Stephanie prefers men who do what she asks—a role Chad filled once upon a time. As the two spend time together, Stephanie and Chad end up remembering their romantic past. Viewers are left wondering if Chad could become that devoted partner for Stephanie once again as old feelings linger beneath the surface.
Theo Refuses to Forgive EJ and Johnny
Elsewhere, family tension reaches a boiling point as Theo Carver refuses to let go of his intense bitterness. Despite Lexie reiterating time and again that staying away from Theo and Abe was entirely her own personal decision—even begging EJ DiMera to let her die alone without informing her family—Theo refuses to accept the truth.
Instead, Theo has firmly convinced himself that EJ forced his mother into hiding her condition. Furthermore, Theo believes Johnny DiMera went along with his father’s actions simply because he is just as bad. No matter what anyone says to reason with him, nothing will change Theo’s mind. He insists on believing he is entirely right while everyone else is in the wrong, treating any disagreement as people picking on him.
Gwen and Leo Face to Face After His Ultimate Sacrifice
In other developments, Gwen Rizczech and Leo Stark finally come face to face. Leo demonstrated a stunning willingness to sacrifice himself for Gwen’s sake in Alamainia, an act that went a remarkably long way toward making up for the endless list of horrible things he has inflicted on her in the past. Now that they are officially reunited, questions remain about whether the duo can truly let bygones be bygones and move forward constructively in their complex relationship.
However, Leo’s presence continues to cause major collateral damage elsewhere. Gus is rapidly coming to the realization that a harmonious future might never happen for himself and Javi Martinez. On Thursday’s episode, Gus calls Javi out on his behavior, pointing out that Javi is obviously still hung up on his ex. Tired of constantly playing second fiddle to Leo, Gus demands clarity on where they stand.
With old lovers reconnecting and past grievances creating bitter divides, Salem is set for an emotional showdown. Will Stephanie and Chad officially cross the line back into romance, and can Javi let go of Leo before losing Gus forever? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
