We grieve the loss of a legend of the silver screen at a time that is particularly sad for those who are admirers of the little screen. It was reported by People magazine that Bill Hayes, the legendary actor who played Doug Williams on the long-running soap opera ‘Days of Our Lives,’ passed away in a tranquil manner at the astounding age of 98.
Over the course of more than half a century, Hayes brought the character of Doug Williams to life, making an indelible stamp on the annals of television history. It was via this capacity that the Williams-Horton family, a fundamental component of the show’s legacy, were inextricably linked.
The devastating news was disseminated by a representative of the series, who said, “With heavy hearts, we share the loss of our dear Bill Hayes.” In 1970, he was the first actor to portray the character of “Doug Williams,” and he continued to do so throughout his entire life.
A Foundational Elements in the History of Television
The executive producer of ‘Days of Our Lives,’ Ken Corday, paid tribute to Hayes by identifying him as a vital person in the programme’s complex tapestry. Hayes was recognised for his contributions to the show. While speaking, Corday made the following observation: “Bill was not just an actor; he embodied the heart and soul of ‘Days of Our Lives.'” Bill’s tenacious legacy will live on in our hearts and in the stories that we continue to weave, both on and off the screen, despite the fact that we are in mourning and will miss him tremendously.
A stunning 98th birthday was celebrated by Bill Hayes on set during the summer of last year, with fellow cast members present to rejoice with him. During the event, there was a cake that was personalised with a portrait of the actor when he was younger and the words “Happy Birthday Bill” written on it.
Additionally, his cherished wife, Susan Seaforth-Hayes, who is a prominent figure in the world of television, participated in the festivities. Susan divulged an amazing fact during the celebrations, which was that Bill Hayes was the very first person to ever sing on daytime television, which was a significant historical achievement. It was a demonstration of the love and respect that he commanded from his contemporaries that members of the cast and crew sang “Happy Birthday” to him on his birthday.
This heartfelt homage was shared with fans through a video that was uploaded to the couple’s joint Instagram account. In the video, the couple expressed their thanks to the ‘Days of Our Lives’ family for celebrating Hayes’ 98th birthday on the set that had become his second home.
Because of his outstanding performance as Doug Williams on ‘Days of Our Lives,’ Bill Hayes was honoured with the Daytime Emmy’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. This award was an appropriate tribute of his outstanding performance. However, his contributions went beyond the screen, as he was the one who introduced him to Susan Seaforth-Hayes for the first time while they were both working on the show. Beginning with a kiss that was seen on TV in July of 1970, the couple eventually developed a real-life relationship that culminated in their marriage in October of 1974. In order to celebrate their love for one another, the pair decided to hold a second wedding on October 1, 1976, much like their counterparts on television.
After his passing, Bill Hayes leaves behind a legacy that is valued by his admirers as well as his colleagues. In the magnificent acting heritage that his father left behind, his son, William Foster Hayes IV, continues the work.
As we say our goodbyes to this cherished artist, we take a moment to contemplate the everlasting imprint he made on the television show “Days of Our Lives” and on the hearts of millions of viewers all over the world. Our memories of Bill Hayes, a true icon, will live on in perpetuity, and he will continue to appear on our screens.
