Wayne Northrop, a renowned television actor, has died.
According to Deadline, He succumbed to Alzheimer's disease at the age of 77.
Northrop passed away on Friday, leaving behind a legacy of iconic roles in American soap operas. He had been courageously battling early onset Alzheimer's, diagnosed six years ago, and spent his final years at the Motion Picture and Television Woodland Hills Home.
Born on April 12, 1947, in Sumner, Washington, Wayne Northrop was educated at the University of Washington, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications.
He further honed his acting skills at Seattle Community College before moving to Los Angeles in 1975. There, he joined the Los Angeles Actors’ Theatre, which paved the way for his television career.
Wayne achieved stardom through roles such as Detective Roman Brady on "Days of Our Lives," where he featured from 1981 to 1984 and again from 1991 to 1994. He also became well-known for playing Michael Culhane on "Dynasty" and made a significant impact with his portrayal of Dr. Alex North and appearances on "Port Charles."
The soap star's publicist, Cynthia Snyder, remembered him, stating, "He died Friday at the Motion Picture and Television Woodland Hills Home following a years-long struggle with Alzheimer’s."
Wayne's contributions extended beyond his on-screen presence. He was a passionate conservationist who, along with his wife Lynn Herring Northrop, purchased and managed a working cattle ranch in Raymond, California.
In addition, they restored the oldest house in Raymond, built in 1886, turning it into a museum listed on the registry of historical places—an endeavor that marked their commitment to both history and the environment.
Actress Lynn Herring Northrop, Wayne's wife of 43 years, reflected on his life and the support they received during his illness:
Wayne was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's 6 years ago. He took his last breath in the arms of his family. We wish to thank the most caring and amazing place, The Motion Picture and Television Home for taking such great care of him. Wayne touched so many people with his sense of humor and wit. A husband for 43 years, the best dad ever to his two boys, Hank and Grady, and a rancher who loved his cows and was a friend to many.
Wayne's wife, their two sons, Hank and Grady, and his stepmother Janet Northrop survive him. His family was by his side at the Motion Picture and Television Woodland Hills Home when he passed.
In addition to his prolific acting career, Wayne is remembered for his earlier roles in shows like "The Waltons," "Hotel," "L.A. Law," and "Cold Case." He made his first onscreen appearance after getting an agent, spurred by his theatre involvement, in an episode of "Police Story."
In conclusion, Wayne Northrop contributed to television drama and pursued endeavors in conservation and history, leaving a rich legacy. Fans around the world will remember his roles in "Dynasty" and "Days of Our Lives," and his family’s statements remind us of a life well-lived, marked by professional acclaim and personal devotion to family and community. Wayne’s struggle with Alzheimer's and his final years spent at the caring facility highlight the humane aspects of dealing with long-term illness in the family.
