Bill Hayes, the iconic star of the long-running NBC soap opera “Days of Our Lives,” has sadly passed away at the remarkable age of 98.
A Legendary Journey on the Small Screen
Since 1970, Hayes portrayed the beloved character of Doug Williams on the daytime serial, capturing the hearts of millions of viewers. Interestingly, it was on the set of this fictional Illinois town soap opera that Hayes met his real-life soulmate, actress Susan Seaforth. Their on-screen characters tied the knot in 1976, and their off-screen love story lasted for decades.
A Love Story That Transcended Fiction
In a testament to their incredible connection, Hayes and Seaforth graced the cover of Time magazine in the same year they got married on the show. The magazine showcased the rising popularity of daytime soap operas. Together, they became an enduring symbol of love, both on and off the screen.
A Legacy That Will Forever Shine
Ken Corday, the executive producer of “Days of Our Lives,” shared heartfelt words about Hayes, saying, “I have known Bill for most of my life, and he embodied the heart and soul of ‘Days of Our Lives.’ Although we are grieving and will miss him, Bill’s indelible legacy will live on in our hearts and the stories we tell, both on and off the screen.”
A Pillar of the Soap Opera World
Hayes’ portrayal of Doug Williams made him one of the longest-running characters on the show, which is now produced by Sony Pictures TV. Throughout the years, the couple faced numerous trials, including encounters with deranged ex-spouses, exploding ovens, and even serial killers. These captivating storylines captivated audiences around the globe.
Recognizing Excellence
Hayes’ remarkable talent and dedication to his craft earned him two Daytime Emmy nominations for his work on “Days of Our Lives” in 1975 and 1976. Furthermore, in 2018, both Hayes and Seaforth-Hayes received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Daytime Emmy Awards, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the world of soap operas.
From Broadway to Iconic Television
Hayes’ career in entertainment began in 1949 on Olsen & Johnson’s “Fireball Fun-for-All” and later on Sid Caesar’s “Your Show of Shows.” With his exceptional singing and dancing skills, he made his Broadway debut in 1953 with the Rodgers & Hammerstein tuner “Me and Juliet.” Hayes also graced national stages with his performances in musicals like “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Student Prince,” “Anything Goes,” “Camelot,” and “The Pajama Game.”
A Multifaceted Talent
In addition to his television and stage accomplishments, Hayes ventured into the world of music. In 1956, he gained recognition for his rendition of “The Ballad of Davy Crockett,” a popular song from the Disney-produced series. His version resonated with audiences and became a hit.
A Perfect Fit
In 1970, Hayes found his true calling with the role of a formerly imprisoned con artist turned nightclub singer on “Days of Our Lives.” The character of Doug Williams became synonymous with Bill Hayes, allowing him to showcase his acting prowess and charm.
The Return of Beloved Characters
Although the couple temporarily left “Days of Our Lives” in 1984 due to a decrease in their characters’ airtime, Susan Seaforth Hayes eventually made a triumphant return to the show in 1990, while Hayes made sporadic appearances in Salem. Throughout the rest of the 1990s, he continued to perform on stage and also earned a doctorate in education from West Virginia University.
In a surprising twist, Hayes and Seaforth Hayes made a grand comeback to the series in 2003, defying the assumption of their characters’ demise and delighting fans once again.
Bill Hayes will forever be remembered not only as an incredibly talented actor but also as a kind-hearted soul who left an indelible mark on the world of soap operas. He will be greatly missed.
Source: F5mag.com