Days of Our Lives has been keeping fans on the edge of their seats for decades. With countless twists, dramatic reveals, and jaw-dropping moments, it’s no wonder this show remains one of the most beloved soap operas of all time.
Over the years, viewers have witnessed their favorite characters face life-changing events, shocking betrayals, and unbelievable twists that no one saw coming.
Whether you’ve been watching since the beginning or just started tuning in, these cliffhangers have defined the show’s legacy.
Below, we’ll dive into the top 10 most iconic Days of Our Lives cliffhangers that left fans buzzing for days (and sometimes even years!).
1. Marlena’s Possession
Arguably one of the wildest storylines in soap opera history, Marlena’s possession by the devil in the mid-90s is still talked about today. This storyline wasn’t just groundbreaking—it was genre-defining.
The scene where Marlena’s eyes glowed yellow, indicating she was under the devil’s control, sent shockwaves through Salem and TV screens around the world.
Why It Mattered:
This cliffhanger not only brought a supernatural element to Days of Our Lives but also showed the lengths the writers were willing to go to keep the show fresh and engaging.
At a time when soap operas were leaning heavily on romantic drama and family feuds, introducing a possession storyline was a risk that paid off in spades.
Marlena’s battle against evil captivated audiences and added an entirely new dimension to her character. It also sparked intense fan reactions, with viewers left anxiously waiting to see if Marlena could be saved from her fate.
2. Bo and Hope’s Explosive Escape
The chemistry between Bo and Hope made them a legendary couple in the world of daytime television, and their daring escape scenes were some of the show’s most memorable.
In one particularly heart-stopping moment, the pair found themselves trapped in a warehouse rigged to explode. Just as the explosion tore through the building, the screen faded to black, leaving viewers in suspense over their fate.
Why It Mattered:
Bo and Hope’s adventures were always a hit with viewers, but this cliffhanger cemented their status as a super couple. Fans were left breathless, wondering if their favorite duo would survive the blast.
The stakes felt real, and the storyline showcased how far these characters would go to stay together against all odds. It wasn’t just about the explosion—it was about the enduring love story between Bo and Hope.
3. Stefano’s “Final” Exit
Stefano DiMera is no stranger to death—or rather, cheating it. As the show’s long-standing villain, Stefano’s supposed demise often became a question of “when will he return?” rather than “is he gone for good?”
But when Stefano fell from the balcony in a dramatic showdown, it seemed like it might truly be the end for the Phoenix.
Why It Mattered:
Stefano’s character had been the puppet master behind so many of the show’s biggest twists and turns.
His death marked the potential end of an era, and fans were left grappling with the idea of a Days universe without its biggest antagonist. The question hung over Salem: Could anyone fill the void left by Stefano’s departure?
4. The Reveal of Who Shot EJ
The shooting of EJ DiMera was one of the show’s most compelling whodunit mysteries. When EJ was gunned down, fans were left wondering who could have been behind the attack.
The storyline unraveled slowly, with red herrings and shocking twists leading up to the big reveal. When the shooter’s identity was hinted at but not fully revealed, it set off weeks of speculation.
Why It Mattered:
This cliffhanger played on the show’s legacy of murder mysteries and shocking revelations. EJ’s shooting put the spotlight on many characters, making everyone a suspect.
It was a classic example of Days of Our Lives building suspense and keeping fans guessing until the very end.
5. Kristen’s Wedding Reveal
Kristen DiMera has a talent for drama, and her wedding was no exception. At the altar, just when Kristen thought she had everything in place, her darkest secret came to light.
The reveal that she had been hiding the truth about Nicole’s baby shocked not just the wedding guests but also viewers at home.
Why It Mattered:
Kristen’s wedding is a perfect example of how Days of Our Lives uses major events to deliver jaw-dropping twists.
Weddings are supposed to be moments of joy, but on Days, they often become the setting for explosive confrontations and life-changing reveals. This cliffhanger not only derailed Kristen’s plans but also created ripple effects that impacted multiple characters.
6. The Salem Stalker Mystery
The Salem Stalker storyline is one that every Days of Our Lives fan remembers. When beloved characters started “dying” under mysterious circumstances, the entire town of Salem was thrown into chaos.
The show dropped hints and red herrings, but the identity of the stalker remained hidden until the shocking reveal.
Why It Mattered:
This storyline took Days in a darker direction and showed that even fan-favorite characters weren’t safe.
Fans were left in suspense, wondering who would be targeted next and who the killer could be. When the stalker’s identity was finally revealed, it became one of the most unforgettable moments in soap opera history.
7. Jack’s Death (Again)
Jack Deveraux is one of those characters who always seems to find his way back, no matter what. But when he was presumed dead after an elevator crash, it felt more final than ever. Fans were left grappling with the possibility that Jack might not return this time.
Why It Mattered:
Jack’s repeated “deaths” became a recurring theme, but each time, the stakes felt higher.
This particular cliffhanger hit hard, as fans were left mourning Jack while also holding out hope for a miraculous return. It showed the emotional investment viewers had in these characters and their stories.
8. The Baby Switch
Baby switch storylines are a staple of soap operas, but Days of Our Lives took it to another level with Sarah and Kristen’s babies.
When it was revealed that Sarah’s baby had been swapped with Kristen’s, viewers couldn’t believe the lengths certain characters would go to get what they wanted.
Why It Mattered:
This cliffhanger had everything—a heartbreaking revelation, ethical dilemmas, and the potential for explosive confrontations.
Fans were left wondering how long the secret could be kept and what would happen when the truth came out.
9. The Explosion at the DiMera Mansion
The DiMera family is known for their drama, and the explosion at the mansion was a moment of pure chaos. In a storyline involving betrayals and hidden agendas, the explosion left fans questioning who survived and what would become of the powerful DiMera empire.
Why It Mattered:
This cliffhanger showcased the ongoing power struggles within the DiMera family and reminded viewers that no one is ever truly safe in Salem.
The aftermath of the explosion set the stage for new rivalries and alliances, proving that Days knows how to keep the drama going.
10. Marlena’s Fall Off the Rooftop
Marlena Evans seems to attract dramatic cliffhangers, but her fall from the rooftop is one of the most unforgettable. After a tense confrontation, Marlena was pushed off the edge, leaving viewers wondering if she could survive the fall.
Why It Mattered:
This moment cemented Marlena’s status as the queen of soap opera cliffhangers. Fans were left holding their breath, waiting to see if she would make it and how this moment would impact her relationships in Salem.
Conclusion
These cliffhangers are what make Days of Our Lives so legendary. They’re not just moments of suspense—they’re turning points that change the lives of the characters and keep fans coming back for These cliffhangers are what make Days of Our Lives so legendary.
They’re not just moments of suspense—they’re turning points that change the lives of the characters and keep fans coming back for more.
The ability of the show’s writers to continually surprise viewers is a testament to why Days of Our Lives has endured for so many decades.
Whether you’re a longtime viewer or a new fan, these iconic cliffhangers are a testament to the drama, excitement, and mystery that Days of Our Lives brings to the screen.
They’re more than just plot twists—they’re moments that define characters, reshape relationships, and keep audiences talking long after the credits roll.
With so many unforgettable moments, it’s no wonder Days of Our Lives remains a staple of daytime television. Here’s to many more years of jaw-dropping cliffhangers and captivating drama!