Remembering Bill Hayes, actor and long-time TV star

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.”

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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.

This “Angelic” Child Star Stayed under the Radar, He Looks “Unrecognizable” & Grew Beard to Hide from the Public

Having risen to fame as a beloved child star, Haley Joel Osment has undergone a significant transformation throughout his Hollywood journey. Osment’s evolution in the industry has been noteworthy, transitioning from his early days as a youthful actor with a cherubic face to his present-day distinguished persona.

Even in his youth, Osment displayed a remarkable talent for portraying deep emotions early in his career. His performances garnered acclaim from both critics and fans alike, who admired his ability to blend a cherubic appearance with an innocent boyish charm that captivated audiences.

Following the release of “The Sixth Sense” in 1999, Osment’s career took a significant turn. The film catapulted him to international fame and earned him widespread praise for his portrayal of a troubled young child, establishing him as one of Hollywood’s most promising young talents.

As Osment matured, both his roles and his appearance underwent noticeable changes. Nominated for prestigious awards, he graced the Academy Awards stage and continued to challenge himself with complex characters that showcased his versatility as an actor.

During the mid-2000s, Osment faced personal challenges, notably a high-profile incident involving drunk driving. However, he viewed this period as an opportunity for personal growth, and he emerged from it with a renewed perspective on his career.

Today, Osment remains a thriving presence in the entertainment industry, starring in a variety of films and television series that highlight his versatility as an actor. Sporting a tidy beard and exuding an adult demeanor, he continues to be admired for his transformative performances and steadfast dedication to his craft.

From his early days as a prodigious young talent to his current status as a seasoned actor, Haley Joel Osment’s journey in Hollywood has been defined by growth, transformation, and perseverance. His enduring skill and enduring presence in the industry stand as a testament to his remarkable career, which continues to evolve both professionally and personally.

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