GOODBYE LEGEND 😭💔 The beloved star has died, leaving the world in shock. Fans from all over have gathered to say their final goodbyes. Check the first comment ⤵️⤵️.

Fans of the long-running soap Days of Our Lives witnessed a deeply moving moment this week as the show aired the final on-screen appearance of beloved cast member Bill Hayes.

In Thursday’s episode, titled “Legend: Lost,” the series paid tribute to Hayes, who passed away at the age of 98. The episode marked a poignant farewell, arriving six months after his death and honoring a career that spanned decades.

Hayes, best known for his role as Doug Williams, shared an emotional final scene with his real-life wife and longtime co-star, Susan Seaforth Hayes. Their on-screen chemistry, which mirrored their real-life romance, has been a cornerstone of the show for generations of viewers.

The tribute episode blended storytelling with real emotion, allowing fans to say goodbye alongside the characters. For many, it was more than just another episode—it was the closing chapter of a television legacy.

Hayes first joined the cast in 1970 and quickly became one of the show’s most enduring figures. His portrayal of Doug Williams, combined with his musical performances and heartfelt storylines, helped define an era of daytime television.

As “Days of Our Lives” continues, Thursday’s episode stands as a lasting tribute—not only to Hayes’ character, but to the man himself, whose presence left an indelible mark on the world of television.

Days of Our Lives is a long-running American daytime soap opera that premiered on NBC on November 8, 1965. Created by Ted and Betty Corday, the series chronicles the interwoven lives of several families in the fictional Midwestern town of Salem. It remains one of television’s most enduring dramas, celebrated for its emotional storytelling and cultural milestones.

Key facts

• First aired: November 8, 1965

• Original network: NBC; moved to Peacock in 2022

• Creators: Ted Corday, Betty Corday

• Setting: Fictional town of Salem, Illinois

• Episodes: Over 15,000 (as of December 2024)

• Awards: 60+ Daytime Emmy Awards

Origins and concept

Originally envisioned by Ted and Betty Corday, Days of Our Lives debuted as NBC’s first daytime series broadcast entirely in color. The show initially centered on the Horton family, led by Tom and Alice Horton, portrayed by Macdonald Carey and Frances Reid. The drama expanded to one hour in 1975 and introduced new family dynasties such as the Bradys, DiMeras, and Kiriakises.

Storylines and themes

The series blends romance, mystery, and social commentary through plotlines ranging from love triangles and betrayals to amnesia, kidnappings, and supernatural events. Known for addressing taboo topics in daytime television, it has portrayed groundbreaking moments such as daytime’s first interracial romance and first same-sex wedding.

Production and legacy

Produced by Corday Productions in association with Sony Pictures Television, the show has been executive produced by Ken Corday since 1987. After nearly six decades on NBC, Days of Our Lives moved exclusively to Peacock in 2022, continuing to release new episodes each weekday. As of 2025, the series has been renewed through its 63rd season, marking its 60th anniversary as a cornerstone of American daytime drama.

Cultural impact

The soap’s iconic opening narration—“Like sands through the hourglass, so are the days of our lives”—and its longevity have secured its place in television history. It has influenced generations of writers and actors, attracted an international audience, and remains a fixture in popular culture.