Bill Hayes, Longtime Star Of ‘Days Of Our Lives,’ Dies At 98

Bill Hayes, who appeared on the NBC serial opera “Days of Our Lives” for over 50 years, has died. He was 98.

Gregory David Mayo, the actor’s agent, confirmed the actor’s death in an email to CNN on Saturday, saying Hayes died “peacefully” on Friday morning “surrounded by family including his wife, Susan Seaforth Hayes.” No cause of death was given.

Hayes played Doug Williams on “Days,” the husband of Julie Williams, who is portrayed on the program by his real-life wife Seaforth Hayes. His character was also the father of Hope Williams (Kristian Alfonso), one-half of the famed “Days of Our Lives” duo Bo (Peter Reckell) and Hope.

Bill Hayes, who appeared on the NBC serial opera “Days of Our Lives” for over 50 years, has died. He was 98.

Hayes debuted on the daytime soap opera in February 1970, and she featured in more than 2,100 episodes. His last appearance as Williams was on December 22nd, last month.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Bill Hayes,” the show said in a statement to CNN on Saturday. “One of the longest-running characters on Days of Our Lives, Bill created the part of ‘Doug Williams’ in 1970 and played him throughout his life. He and his wife, Susan Seaforth-Hayes, formed the foundation of the Williams-Horton family for over 50 years.”

Bill Hayes, who appeared on the NBC serial opera “Days of Our Lives” for over 50 years, has died. He was 98.

“Days” executive producer Ken Corday stated, “I have known Bill for the majority of my life, and he embodied the heart and soul of ‘Days of our Lives.'” Although we are saddened and will miss him, Bill’s enduring legacy will live on and off screen in our hearts and the stories we tell.”

Hayes’ television credits include “Matlock” and “Frasier.” In the 1950s and 1960s, he also acted in TV movies of popular musicals “Kiss Me, Kate” and “Once Upon a Mattress,” as well as John Brooks in the 1958 TV movie “Little Women.”

Bill Hayes, who appeared on the NBC serial opera “Days of Our Lives” for over 50 years, has died. He was 98.

“Bill Hayes meant the world to me – he is simply the best that a person could ever hope to be,” Mayo said. “He was not only a client, but also a reliable friend and mentor. Bill will certainly be missed.”

Bill Hayes is a brilliant actor best known for his roles in the iconic television drama “Days of Our Lives.” He is also an accomplished author, with his memoir “Insomniac City” gaining great acclaim. In addition to his artistic activities, Hayes strongly supports LGBTQ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. Bill Hayes’ entertaining storytelling and genuine enthusiasm for social concerns continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

SOURCE – CNN