Days Of Our Lives 2026 Preview: Major Spoilers, Cast Changes, And What’s Next In Salem?

Days Of Our Lives 2026 Preview: Major Spoilers, Cast Changes, And What’s Next In Salem?

Peacock Renewal Sets the Stage for Grief, Revenge, Romance, and Major Upheaval

With Days of Our Lives officially renewed on Peacock, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year in Salem—one filled with emotional reckonings, dangerous alliances, corporate warfare, and life-altering twists. According to TV Insider, co-head writers Paula Cwikly and Jeanne Marie Ford say the renewal brings both relief and opportunity. “As fans first, we are thrilled for the audience, cast, crew, and Ken [Corday, executive producer], who has made tremendous sacrifices to keep the show on the air,” they shared. “We are grateful for Peacock’s support and faith in Days.”

However, with episodes filmed nearly 10 months in advance, storytelling comes with unique challenges. “While we get feedback from the producers on what is currently taping, we don’t have the ability to change course in the middle of a story based on fan reaction,” the writers explained—meaning the arcs unfolding in 2026 are carefully planned long before they hit the screen.

Here’s what fans can expect in the year ahead.

Marlena Evans Faces a Defining Journey

Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) embarks on a mysterious quest at the beginning of 2026, which grows more intense as the year advances and culminates in a life-altering event by fall.

As for romance, the writers make it clear that Marlena’s heart is still deeply wounded. “Anything is possible, but Marlena’s grief for John is consuming, and she is certainly not looking for love at this time.” Expect an emotional, character-driven arc that honors loss while pushing Marlena toward a new sense of purpose.

Brady, Sarah, and Xander: A Shifting Romantic Landscape

A complex situation develops when Brady Black (Eric Martsolf) and Sarah Horton (Linsey Godfrey) start considering a possible relationship. At the same time, Xander Kiriakis (Paul Telfer) tries to move forward, yet his actions could complicate much more than just his romantic life.

Rachel Blake and Sophia Choi: Chaos at Bayview

Trouble is brewing at Bayview Sanitarium, where Rachel Black and Sophia Choi form what the writers ominously describe as an “unholy alliance.” Their warning is blunt: “Needless to say, nothing good will come of it.” Expect manipulation, danger, and ripple effects that reach far beyond Bayview’s walls.

Stephanie Johnson and Alex Kiriakis Face Existential Tests

Stephanie Johnson (Abigail Klein) and Alex Kiriakis (Robert Scott Wilson) start the year positively, but 2026 will bring unforeseen challenges. The couple encounters numerous existential dilemmas that might reshape their future both together and individually.

Dimitri’s Return Brings Revenge and Fallout

The return of Dimitri von Leuschner (Peter Porte) sends shockwaves through Salem, directly impacting Javi Hernandez (Al Calderon) and Leo Stark (Greg Rikaart). With both Dimitri and Gwen out for revenge, the writers tease “fallout and collateral damage” that will permanently alter multiple lives.

Johnny and Chanel: A Year of Extremes

For Johnny DiMera (Carson Boatman) and Chanel Dupree DiMera (Raven Bowens), 2026 is a rollercoaster. The couple experiences “major ups and downs, joys and sorrows,” making them one of the show’s most emotionally tested pairings of the year.

Abe and Paulina Hit an Unexpected Roadblock

Abe Carver (James Reynolds) and Paulina Price (Jackée Harry) encounter a surprising obstacle that threatens their stability, proving once again that even Salem’s strongest couples are never safe from sudden twists.

Theo Carver’s World Is Turned Upside Down

Theo Carver is headed for a massive shakeup. The writers tease simply: “Theo’s life is about to be turned upside down.” Details are under wraps, but the implication is clear—big change is coming.

Jada Hunter and Shawn Brady Reconnect After Tragedy

In the aftermath of tragedy, Jada Hunter (Elia Cantu) and Shawn Brady (Brandon Beemer) find their way back to one another, offering a story of healing amid heartbreak.

Titan vs. DiMera: Corporate War Erupts

Business turns personal when an overreach by Xander ignites major issues for Titan, fueling the ongoing war with DiMera Enterprises and setting off consequences that could reshape Salem’s power structure.

Casting Changes to Watch in 2026

Several notable casting updates are on the horizon:

• A new Rachel begins airing in March

• Conner Floyd (formerly Chance Chancellor on The Young and the Restless) debuts as Chad in April

• A new Ari Hernandez, replacing Marissa Reyes, also arrives in April

Final Takeaway

From Marlena’s emotionally charged journey and dangerous revenge plots to romantic upheaval and corporate warfare, Days of Our Lives in 2026 promises high-stakes storytelling with long-term consequences. With Peacock’s continued support, Salem is poised for one of its most transformative years yet—where grief, love, ambition, and betrayal collide in classic Days fashion.