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 Has a Good Plastic Surgeon,” Mike Myers Leaves Fans Shocked in Rare Appearance
As he made his first public appearance since October 2022, Mike Myers left fans speechless with his transformation. The iconic Austin Powers actor bore little resemblance to his usual self, leaving everyone in awe. Take a look at the captivating photos from the evening.
The 60-year-old actor attended the 49th AFI Life Achievement Award Gala, which honored Nicole Kidman. He chose a classic black tuxedo paired with a black bow tie for his attire.
Myers unveiled a fresh buzz cut, proudly showcasing his natural grays. Additionally, he donned a neat, short gray beard, marking a significant departure from his signature longer, brown hair that defined much of his career.
Online, fans were surprised by the star’s dramatic transformation. One person commented, “It’s been ages since I’ve seen any pictures of Mike. He’s unrecognizable but looks good here. I like the buzz cut and gray hair.” Another simply remarked, “I didn’t recognize him.”
Some expressed suspicion that the Austin Powers actor might have undergone cosmetic procedures. One online user exclaimed, “He obviously has a good plastic surgeon,” while another stated, “So much plastic!”
Another star who has been subject to speculation regarding plastic surgery is Tom Cruise. The actor attended a charity gala in London earlier this year, but all discussions revolved around his unrecognizable appearance.
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