DOOL Spoilers: Ari Horton Kidnapped — But Is Doug’s Loan Shark Just a Smokescreen?

On Jun 6, 2025

Days of Our Lives spoilers reveal that a man with a camera seems to be following Ari Horton (Marissa Reyes) around. Each time the shutter clicked, Ari was near Doug Williams III (Peyton Meyer).

It’s easy to assume the man is targeting the young woman because of Doug but soaps love red herrings. So, could there be another explanation? Keep reading and let’s talk about what could happen next with this storyline.

Ari Horton’s Surprise Return

Fans recently met an aged-up Ari, who made a surprise return to Salem. Fans knew that a new Ari had been cast, but Gabi Hernandez (Cherie Jimenez) had no idea that her daughter was coming home until the last minute.

The rushed way that Ari called her mother asking for money, then claiming it was because she wanted to come home. Why would she just not ask Will Horton (Chandler Massey) and Sonny Kiriakis (Zach Tinker)?

Skipping Graduation Excuse

There was also the suspicious way that Ari acted when Gabi and Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) asked about the girl’s graduation. Ari claimed that the school was going to mail her diploma.

Then, she vaguely talked about how she didn’t want to walk across a stage, calling it “cringey”. The whole thing seemed suspicious and judging by Marlena’s face, she didn’t believe the story either.

I’m wondering if Ari got into some trouble at school. What or who is she running from, and why?

Doug Williams III’s Trouble

Days of Our Lives spoilers reveal that fans watched a man taking pictures of Ari in Horton Town Square.

One photo that was taken included Ari touching hands with Doug. This could suggest to the photographer that they are a couple when they have only recently met.

Fans know that Doug still owes money to loan sharks. Doug promised them that he would get them the money, but he’s already two payments behind.

The loan shark could have his men do something to send a message, such as kidnapping Ari, thinking she’s Doug’s girlfriend. It’s also possible that the loan shark sent his men after Holly Jonas (Ashley Puzemis), and there’s a mistaken identity.

Haunted By the Past

However, soaps often love red herrings, especially with a mysterious storyline. Ari’s entire return is shrouded in secrecy. The girl is also well-acquainted with lying and keeping secrets.

While Doug’s loan sharks are always a possibility, could there be something else going on? Maybe Ari was running from a stalker or creepy professor? Maybe this time, Doug could play the hero?

Share your thoughts in the comment section below. Keep watching the soap on Peacock to find out what happens next.