The entertainment world mourns the loss of a television icon.
Bill Hayes, renowned for his role as Doug Williams in "Days of Our Lives" since 1970, passed away at 98.
Hayes, a stalwart of the American soap opera "Days of Our Lives," left an indelible mark with his continuous portrayal of Doug Williams since 1970. His recent demise at the age of 98 has left fans and colleagues in profound grief. A representative for the show confirmed his passing on Friday, marking the end of an era for the series.
Hayes' journey with "Days of Our Lives" was not just professional but deeply personal. He shared the screen with his real-life wife, Susan Seaforth-Hayes, for over five decades. Together, they formed the bedrock of the show's Williams-Horton family, bringing to life a captivating on-screen partnership.
Ken Corday, the executive producer of "Days of Our Lives," expressed his sorrow over the loss. "I have known Bill for most of my life, and he embodied the heart and soul of 'Days of our Lives,'" he said, reflecting on the profound impact Hayes had on the show and its audience.
Before his long-standing association with "Days," Hayes had already tasted fame. In 1955, he topped the charts with "The Ballad of Davy Crockett," a song that resonated with audiences nationwide and established him as a talented artist in the music industry.
The industry recognized his contributions to the entertainment world with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Daytime Emmys in 2018. This accolade was a testament to his enduring presence and influence in television.
Hayes' life was celebrated even in his final days. He recently marked his 98th birthday on the "Days of Our Lives set," surrounded by his wife and co-stars. This event, filled with warmth and camaraderie, underscored the familial atmosphere he fostered on and off the screen.
In a statement released by the show's representative, the profound impact of Hayes was succinctly captured:
It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved Bill Hayes. One of the longest-running characters on Days of our Lives, Bill originated the role of ‘Doug Williams’ in 1970 and portrayed him continuously throughout his life. He and his wife, Susan Seaforth-Hayes, remained the foundation of the Williams-Horton family spanning more than 50 years.
Bill Hayes, celebrated for his role as Doug Williams in the American soap opera "Days of Our Lives" since 1970, passed away at the age of 98, leaving the entertainment world in mourning.
His portrayal of Doug Williams for over five decades marked a significant era in television, especially as he shared the screen with his real-life wife, Susan Seaforth-Hayes. Ken Corday, the show's executive producer, lamented the loss, emphasizing Hayes' vital role in the show.
Hayes' career was not limited to acting; he also achieved fame in the music industry with his hit "The Ballad of Davy Crockett" in 1955 and was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Daytime Emmys in 2018.
