Bill Hayes, a pivotal figure of day-time television passed away at the age of 98.
Hayes was probably best known for his portrayal of Doug Williams on Days of Our Lives since 1970, appearing in over 2,100 episodes of the show. The role of the former con artist-turned-lounge singer became one of the longest-running characters in the show’s history.
Hayes was born in Harvey, Illinois, in 1925. Before becoming an actor, he started a career of a musician and a performer, reaching a Billboard chart-topping hit with The Ballad of Davy Crockett in 1955.
In 1953, Hayes had his Broadway debut in Me and Juliet and over the course of a decade he appeared in a number of productions.
By 1970, Hayes, a divorced father of five, was hoping to land a role closer to home when he joined the cast of Days of Our Lives, a decision that would define his career and endear him to millions of viewers.
It was on set that he met the great love of his life, actress Susan Seaforth, who played Julie Williams. Their on-screen chemistry translated into real life and the two tied the knot in 1974. They stayed together until Hayes’ passing.
Speaking of the instant connection they felt when they laid eyes on each other, Seaforth once said, “I’d seen enough to know that he was special.” Others could also see their unexplained connection. “We had a scene together shortly after meeting, and the head writer saw something going on between the two of us, just two people looking at each other, and he threw out the other plot lines he had for our characters,” she added.
Hayes and Seaforth Hayes were both honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards at the 2018 Daytime Emmys for their enduring contributions to television. The couple’s acceptance speech was heartfelt, with Bill expressing gratitude for the fans who considered them part of their own lives.
Honoring Hayes, a representative for the Peacock series told The Times in a statement, “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.”
“I have known Bill for most of my life and he embodied the heart and soul of ‘Days of Our Lives,’” executive producer Ken Corday said in a statement. “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.”
In addition to his iconic role on Days of Our Lives, Bill Hayes had other notable television appearances, including roles in Matlock and Frasier. During the 1950s and 60s, he featured in TV adaptations of popular musicals such as Kiss Me, Kate and Once Upon a Mattress. He also portrayed John Brooks in the 1958 TV movie Little Women.
The cause of Hayes’ death hasn’t been disclosed with the public.
Rest in peace, legend.
He was asked about grandparents. Little boy’s message about grandmas goes viral
Grandmothers occupy a special place in our hearts, showering their love on their grandchildren and always willing to go the extra mile for them. Unlike parents, who are often burdened with daily responsibilities, grandmothers can focus solely on their deep affection for their grandchildren.
A heartwarming video featuring a young boy in an adorable martial arts outfit has captured the internet’s attention. When asked about why God created grandmothers, his response is priceless. While his answer is simple, it carries profound truth.
However, it’s not just their forgiving nature that makes grandmothers extraordinary; they also know how to have fun. They get to relive the joys of childhood without the burdens of responsibility.
There’s no worry about finances, healthcare, or schooling—just pure enjoyment. Establishing traditions like going out for all-you-can-eat buffets or watching movies together becomes treasured moments in the grandparent-grandchild relationship.
While there is ample evidence highlighting the greatness of grandmothers, this young boy’s video offers a unique perspective. We won’t spoil it; it’s best to watch for yourself. Prepare to be touched by his heartfelt thoughts on his grandmother and mother.
How does this video of the boy make you feel? If you find it as heartwarming as we do, consider sharing it with others. Grandmothers truly are a precious gift!
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