The June 3 episode of Days of Our Lives delivered a powerful mix of sorrow and hope that left fans deeply moved. The heart of the episode was the devastating news of John Black’s passing, which cast a heavy shadow over Marlena, Brady, Belle, and their family as they grappled with their grief. Amid the sadness, a glimmer of joy emerged with the surprising recovery of Bo Brady, offering a rare uplifting moment for Salem.
The episode opened with Kristen waking early at the DiMera mansion, finding EJ still hard at work on his hospital plans. Their tense conversation reminded viewers of the delicate deal they had struck, hinging on EJ bringing Kristen’s mother home. Suddenly, Kristen’s daughter Rachel screamed from her room after a nightmare about John’s death. Kristen comforted her, reassuring Rachel that John was getting better and that a visit might be possible after school.
While Kristen texted Brady to discuss their daughter, Marlena lay quietly, haunted by memories of her final moments with John at the hospital. When Belle found Brady already awake, the truth came crashing down—Brady gently told her John had passed, prompting an emotional breakdown and a tearful embrace between Belle and Marlena.
As Marlena suggested waiting before making any calls, Brady brought tea to Belle, highlighting the fragile mood. Meanwhile, Abe and Paulina were awakened by the news from Steve and quickly rushed to Marlena’s home. Brady also visited the DiMera mansion to tell Kristen the news, which EJ overheard before slipping away quietly. Kristen, overwhelmed, shared with Brady how much John had meant to her, and they debated how to break the news to Rachel. Kristen’s revelation that she had made a deal with EJ to keep silent about Johnny stirred tension, especially as she suggested Rachel could rely on her therapist.
Elsewhere, Kayla broke the news to Roman, both recalling the impact John had on their lives. Hope called with uplifting news that Bo had awakened, and they chose to shield her from John’s death to preserve her happiness. Julie also shared Bo’s good news with Marlena but quickly had to comfort her upon learning of John’s passing. Abe and Paulina arrived bearing pastries and support, offering Marlena a shoulder to lean on.
Later, EJ came to pay his respects but was met with Marlena’s anger. Belle asked him to leave and expressed her own need for time. The episode closed on a poignant note as Marlena listened repeatedly to John’s final voicemail—a simple, heartfelt message saying, “I love you, Doc.” Holding onto his last words, Marlena clung to a fragment of hope amid her profound loss.