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For more than fifty years, the soap opera Days of Our Lives has captivated the audience and kept them highly entertained by dramatic twists, iconic characters, and horrifying storylines. From supernatural possessions to heart-wrenching romances, the soap opera is never shy about risking it. Salem has seen it all: Rivalries that have lasted a lifetime, tragic love tales, or equally shocking resurrections.
However, the soap opera is defined less by what it has done than by what it continues to do. It has introduced vile conquerors like Stefano DiMera and Kristen DiMera and love stories such as those of Bo and Hope that shall be forever remembered. It has also broken new ground with LGBTQ+ representation and has proven daytime to be in step with social relevance.
From Marlena's shocking possession to Will Horton coming out, these storylines left an indelible mark on the world of soap operas. Whether you've been watching it for decades or just picked it up recently, these ten unforgettable moments affirm why this daytime staple proudly continues to concur the hearts of the audience.
Here comes a venerable list of Days of Our Lives storylines that we absolutely love.
Disclaimer: This entire article is based on the writer's opinion. Readers' discretion is advised
1) Marlena’s possession – when Salem faced pure evil
One of the wildest soap opera moments that have ever been seen were shown by the levitating, glowing eyes, dramatic exorcism scenario. In 2021, the storyline was brought back with Marlena turned into a devil under possession. This time, several characters were possessed by the devil, making it even more chaotic. Though others may have believed the plot over-the-top, it was nonetheless enjoyable. Arguably, the possession storyline showed that Days could take risks and would still be a hot topic among fans much later.
2) The Salem Stalker Murders – A killing spree with a shocking twist
In the year 2003, there was the Salem serial killer that murdered several beloved characters, notably, Abe Carver and Marlena Evans. Fans were heartbroken- until it was revealed that all of these victims had been secretly alive on some island named Melaswen (which really is New Salem spelled backward). Of course, some viewers thought it was nothing more than a contrived twist, while other soap enthusiasts would revel in the drama. Then again, it kept people glued to the screen, and proved there that Days was good at shocking moments- it can still be remembered among that show's most audacious plot twists.
3) Bo and Hope’s love story – A romance that stood the test of time
On Days of Our Lives, few stories are as legendary as that of Bo and Hope. Their passionate relationship was filled with wedding interruptions, dramatic breakups, and tearful reunions. In 2015, Bo returned after years, but his return was bittersweet: He passed away in Hope's arms, breaking the hearts of the fans. In 2023, Days teased that Bo might be alive, offering viewers a glimmer of hope for the couple. Regardless of how much time goes by, Bo and Hope make Days of Our Lives utterly unforgettable.
4) Stefano DiMera – The Villain Who Refused to Stay Dead
Stefano DiMera wasn't just a villain; he was the villain on Days of Our Lives. Regardless of the number of times he met his ends, he had a way of coming back. Be it through faked deaths, body doubles, or underground science experiments, Stefano was always one step ahead. Following the death of the actor Joseph Mascolo in 2016, Days continued to keep his legacy alive. In 2020, they made it clear that Stefano's influence on Salem would never truly end by transferring his consciousness into the body of Steve Johnson.
5) Sami Brady’s Wildest Schemes – Trouble Follows Her Everywhere
Sami Brady is the ultimate puppet master. She switched paternity tests, posed as her sister, and was ever scheming for what she wanted. Yet, no chaos could ever breach her status as a fan favorite. Over the years, she matured to reveal a more vulnerable side with the same fiery spirit intact. And whenever she left Salem, she pounced right back for trouble. Even when she was kidnapped in 2021, old enemies raked in, proving yet again that Sami's life would never be simple. Love her or hate her, Sami Brady was never boring.
6) John Black’s Endless Search for His True Identity
John Black's past was a puzzle that never seemed to fit together. He came in as Roman Brady, only to find out later that he was not Roman at all. Over the years, he was said to have been a priest, a secret agent, and even have some ties to the DiMera family. With every new answer that came along to explain John Black, another unexpected twist appeared to rewrite all the old answers. In 2023, information about his origins popped up, and John learned that his story was by no means over. His endless identity crisis is one of the most fascinating aspects of Days of Our Lives.
7) Kristen DiMera’s Baby Swap – A Mother’s Worst Nightmare
Kristen DiMera was famous for her duplicitous tactics, but her most cantankerous plot came on the heels of 2019, having just lost her baby. She secretly swapped the newborn of Sarah Horton for another. Thus, Sarah was grieving her lost child without knowing that her daughter was really alive. When the whole truth was known, the emotional mess made the fallout terrible. To the majority within Salem's walls, Kristen's unyielding deception made her one of the most hated characters in that town. Even after she served time for her offense, her desperate ways seemed unending, as if redemption was never meant for her in Salem.
8) Nicole and Eric’s Love – A Relationship Full of Ups and Downs
Nicole and Eric had one of the most emotional love stories. Theirs was a passionate relationship yet always tested by lies and betrayal. Once, even Nicole had to fake her own death to save him. In 2022, Eric discovered she had kept the truth of his child from him, yet another hurdle for them. Their bond remained through all of this. Recent episodes suggest the two might reconcile, but nothing is ever easy for them. Fans continue to hope that one day, Nicole and Eric will finally be together.
9) Will Horton’s Coming Out – A Bold and Emotional Journey
In 2012, Will Horton's coming-out tale marked Days of Our Lives into the annals of history. His trip in and out was sincere, genuine, heart-touching, and deservedly received applause from both fans and pundits. His love for Sonny Kiriakis has been branded one of the most celebrated LGBTQ+ love stories in daytime television. The storyline carried on after he was presumed dead, reinforcing the importance of representation in Salem. New trials came his way, but the character remained iconic. Will and Sonny's love story has evolved and, in recent years, has reminded fans why they loved him in the first place
10) Ciara and Ben’s Love – Can a Former Killer Find Redemption?
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The notorious Necktie Killer of Salem, Ben Weston, found a whole new meaning to his life when Ciara Brady chose to see the good in him. With love stories roaring with obstacles, Ciara was presumed dead, memorized, and even faced supernatural forces. Against all odds, the pair fought to be together. In 2022, they left Salem for a new beginning, but their story remains unfinished. Given Days' penchant for reuniting couples beloved by fans, many do hope for Capria's return. Their love story has proven that even a dark past can be made light through redemption.
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