Shocking Update: Days of our Lives Spoilers May 9: EJ Plots to Protect Johnny
Salem is once again the stage for high-stakes drama, deception, and dangerous love as Friday’s episode of “Days of Our Lives” delivers a gripping cliffhanger. At the center of the storm?
EJ DiMera, a man torn between justice and loyalty, as suspicions tighten around his own flesh and blood. In a shocking twist worthy of the DiMera name, EJ (Dan Feuerriegel)
finds himself revisiting the night he was gunned down—and this time, the fragmented memories are forming a disturbing picture. The realization hits him like a thunderbolt: his own son,
Johnny (Carson Boatman), may have pulled the trigger.
Yet, in true DiMera fashion, EJ isn’t horrified. He’s intrigued. He understands the motive—perhaps even admires the boldness. After all, in the DiMera family, power plays, betrayals, and even attempted patricide are par for the course. It’s a legacy soaked in secrets and ambition. For EJ, the idea that Johnny could rise against him isn’t a betrayal—it’s a rite of passage.
But here’s where things take a dark turn: EJ has no intention of seeking justice for himself. Instead, he’s resolved to shield Johnny from any repercussions. That’s right—EJ, the very man lying in a hospital bed with a bullet wound, is now plotting to cover up the crime. In his mind, what’s a little attempted murder between family members, so long as no one ends up behind bars?
And therein lies the deeper conflict. EJ has long evaded punishment for his own litany of crimes and misdemeanors. From scheming to manipulation, betrayal, and beyond, the DiMera patriarch knows better than anyone that in Salem, justice is often optional—if you play the game well enough. Now, he’s extending that same privilege to Johnny.
This twisted sense of protection could have far-reaching consequences—not just for EJ and Johnny, but for the entire DiMera clan. As tensions brew and secrets threaten to explode, one has to wonder: how far will EJ go to protect his son from the fallout? And who else might get caught in the crossfire?
Sunny Lies and Shattered Plans
Meanwhile, elsewhere in Salem, Sarah (Linsey Godfrey) is juggling more than just scalpels and stethoscopes. The overworked doctor is exhausted—not just physically, but emotionally. Between navigating her demanding medical career, being a wife to Xander (Paul Telfer), raising a toddler, and perpetuating a web of lies about a fraudulent will, Sarah is near her breaking point.
She dreams of a brief escape—just a moment to breathe, to reclaim some semblance of peace. With determination (and a bit of manipulation), she convinces Dr. Kayla Brady (Mary Beth Evans) to let her skip an upcoming medical conference. Then, she persuades Xander to ditch his job responsibilities so they can sneak away for a much-needed retreat.
It all seems perfect. A romantic getaway, free from the tangled messes of Salem. But if there’s one thing viewers of “Days” know for sure, it’s that happiness rarely lasts.
Just as the couple prepares to step away from the chaos, unforeseen circumstances throw a wrench into their plans. Sarah’s dreams of serenity are shattered, and she’s left to face the inescapable reality that some lies—especially the big ones—can’t be outrun. Not even on vacation.
Bonds, Battles, and Babbling
In the emotional heart of the episode, young Felicity (Kennedy Garcia) is struggling. Her sadness is palpable, her disappointment written all over her face. Stepping in with compassion and care are Cat (AnnaLynne McCord) and Chad (Billy Flynn), who offer her the comfort she so desperately needs. It’s a tender moment, a reminder that Salem still holds space for healing, even amid all the chaos.
Elsewhere, Stephanie (Abigail Klein) finds herself in emotional limbo. Doubt lingers in her mind, and she’s unsure whether to lean into the love or back away from the heat. Cue Alex (Robert Scott Wilson), who turns on the charm with an intensity that only he can deliver. Alex doesn’t just want to win Stephanie over—he wants to sweep her off her feet. But will his charisma be enough to quiet her doubts?
Then there’s Javi (Al Calderon), who’s hesitant and unsure about where he stands with Leo (Greg Rikaart). But Leo, ever the theatrical force, barrels through the awkwardness with a stream of chatter, colorful pop culture references, and hilariously butchered Yiddish phrases. He deflects, defends, and distracts—all while pretending to care about Javi’s feelings. It’s classic Leo: equal parts ridiculous and endearing.
The Fallout Ahead
As Friday’s episode closes, the DiMera drama looms large over Salem. EJ’s decision to protect Johnny could spark a chain reaction that affects every corner of the town. Will others uncover the truth about Johnny’s alleged involvement in the shooting? How will the family handle the growing cracks within their ranks? And most importantly—how long can EJ keep up the charade before the entire house of cards collapses?
“Days of Our Lives” has always thrived on secrets, betrayals, and the kind of complicated family ties that make your head spin. But Friday’s episode elevates the stakes, reminding viewers that in Salem, the past is never really buried, and loyalty often comes with a steep price.
As the weekend approaches, fans are left with more questions than answers. Will EJ’s protective instincts ultimately destroy the very son he’s trying to shield? Can Sarah keep her lies from unraveling? And will love win out for Stephanie and Alex—or Javi and Leo?
