Days of Our Lives Comings and Goings: Lani and Eli Are Finally Back in Salem
A beloved couple is back, and other fan favorite characters are getting more screen time on Days of our Lives. Here’s the Peacock soap’s latest casting news for the week of July 20-24.
The Week of July 20, 2026
Exciting developments are on the way in Days of Our Lives, as several familiar faces return to Salem for an emotional week filled with reunions, heartfelt moments, and major milestones. Longtime fans have plenty to celebrate, especially those who have been hoping to see Lani Price Grant and Eli Grant together again.
Sal Stowers and Lamon Archey officially return as the beloved supercouple, delighting viewers who have missed their chemistry on screen.
Their reappearance coincides with their anniversary on Tuesday, July 21, making the occasion even more meaningful. Stowers recently reflected on her long journey back to the daytime drama after an extended absence, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to step back into Lani’s shoes and reconnect with fans who never stopped supporting the couple.
Another highly anticipated return comes from Nikki Crawford, who reprises her role as Lexie Carver. Her appearance promises to bring emotional scenes as Lexie shares a touching storyline with her father, Abe Carver, played by James Reynolds.
On Thursday, July 23, father and daughter participate in a heartfelt ceremony in which Abe and Lexie exchange marriage vows and rings, creating one of the week’s most memorable family moments
. Earlier in the week, viewers will also see Kristen DiMera, portrayed by Stacy Haiduk, proposing a daring escape plan to her sister, setting the stage for another suspenseful chapter in Salem.
Meanwhile, Miles Anderson returns as Foster, the former bookstore owner, who seeks out Julie Williams, played by Susan Seaforth Hayes.
Foster’s sincere apology to Julie on Tuesday, July 21, may finally offer the two characters a chance to heal old wounds and move forward. Maggie Carney also returns as Rita, EJ DiMera’s trusted executive assistant.
On Thursday, she shares an important conversation with EJ as he opens up about growing concerns surrounding his latest challenges. At the same time, young Lorelei Olivia Mote appears once again as Rachel Black, delivering an emotional mother-daughter scene with Kristen that is expected to tug at viewers’ heartstrings.
Rounding out the week’s guest appearances is Tina Huang, who reprises her role as attorney Melinda Trask.
On Friday, July 24, Melinda agrees to help Leo Stark, played by Greg Rikaart, potentially launching an intriguing new storyline.
With beloved characters returning, emotional reunions, family celebrations, and fresh twists unfolding throughout Salem, the upcoming episodes promise to deliver a perfect blend of nostalgia, drama, and heartfelt storytelling that longtime Days of Our Lives fans won’t want to miss.
