On Days of Our Lives, Gwen Rizczech's scheme to disrupt Leo Stark's wedding by bringing back Dimitri von Leuschner DiMera has backfired, leaving both Gwen and Leo desperate to remove him from Salem. The former best friends may reunite to tackle their common enemy amid personal heartbreaks. Speculation points to a potential alliance during February sweeps.
Gwen Rizczech (Emily O’Brien) intended to punish Leo Stark (Greg Rikaart) by hauling Dimitri von Leuschner DiMera (Peter Porte) out of hiding to crash Leo's New Year's Eve wedding to Javi Hernandez (Al Calderon). However, Dimitri arrived too late, after the couple was pronounced husband and husband, frustrating Gwen's plans.
Tensions escalated when Javi urged Leo to resolve issues with Dimitri and refused to file their marriage license, allowing it to expire and nullifying the union. With Javi's father undergoing open heart surgery, Javi departed Salem for Texas indefinitely, returning his wedding band to a heartbroken Leo. Leo admitted lingering feelings for Dimitri but affirmed his heart belongs to Javi, vowing to reclaim the ring upon his return.
Meanwhile, Gwen faced financial ruin as Dimitri cut off her bank accounts and credit cards following her humiliation at Julie Williams' bookstore. In a heated confrontation, Gwen stole Dimitri's French fries, dumped his lunch in his lap, and poured beer on his head. Dimitri suspects Gwen orchestrated his kidnapping—with EJ DiMera's (Dan Feuerriegel) help to fund a secret lab under Salem University Hospital—but lacks proof, and others dismiss his claims.
Dimitri now plans to divorce Gwen, reclaim spent funds, and pursue Leo. Gwen confessed her deepest resentment: Dimitri ruined her friendship with Leo. Leo previously asked Gwen to re-kidnap Dimitri in exchange for dropping the lab story, and with both at rock bottom—Gwen financially strained, Leo emotionally shattered—they may bury past grudges.
Speculation suggests involvement from Dr. Wilhelm Rolf (Richard Wharton), who could kidnap Dimitri to the secret lab, disguising it as relocation to Alemannia or a DiMera island. Actor Peter Porte expressed thrill at returning, calling the storyline meaningful, though his duration remains unclear. As Al Calderon exits in May for another role, with Javi recast, Leo and Javi's reunion likely hinges on Dimitri's departure during February sweeps.
