Beloved ‘Days of Our Lives’ Actor, Bill Hayes, Dies at 98
In a sad turn of events, Bill Hayes, renowned for his portrayal of Doug Williams on the long-running soap opera “Days of Our Lives,” has passed away at the age of 98. The news of his peaceful departure was confirmed by his family, who were by his side during his final moments, including his wife, Susan Seaforth Hayes.
Hayes, who originated the character of Doug Williams in 1970, had played the role for an impressive 51 years. In June of this year, he marked his 98th birthday with a heartfelt celebration alongside his colleagues from the popular soap opera.
Born on June 5, 1925, in Harvey, Illinois, Hayes began his career not on screen, but as a singer and actor on Broadway and in nightclubs. His talents eventually caught the attention of the soap opera world, where he would find his greatest success.
It was on the set of ‘Days of Our Lives’ that Hayes met Susan Seaforth Hayes, who also stars on the show. The couple tied the knot in 1974, and just two years later, they joyously exchanged wedding vows in a fictional ceremony on the soap opera, adding a touch of reality to their on-screen romance.
Throughout his career, Hayes was celebrated for his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to “Days of Our Lives,” he was honored with the prestigious Daytime Emmy’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018.
Beyond his television work, Hayes was a devoted family man. He had five children from a previous marriage, and his love for his family was palpable to those who had the privilege of knowing him.
The passing of Bill Hayes is a significant loss for the entertainment industry and the millions of loyal fans who followed his illustrious career. His remarkable legacy, both on and off-screen, will undoubtedly be remembered and cherished for years to come.
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