Bill Hayes, the legendary actor and singer known for his role as Doug Williams on NBC’s ‘Days of Our Lives,’ passed away at the age of 98, according to a representative from the show. His death marks the end of an era for the world of soap operas and entertainment.
Bill Hayes, born William Foster Hayes III on June 5, 1925, in Harvey, Illinois, had a remarkable career that spanned decades and included various milestones. Before becoming an iconic figure in the soap opera world, he gained recognition as a regular on Sid Caesar’s live TV variety show ‘Your Show of Shows.’
In 1955, Hayes achieved nationwide fame with his chart-topping song “The Ballad of Davy Crockett,” which soared to No. 1 on the music charts, solidifying his status as a multi-talented entertainer.
Additionally, Hayes formed a successful nightclub act known as “The Singing Sweethearts” alongside Florence Henderson, who would later gain fame as a star of ‘The Brady Bunch.’ Together, they sang about Oldsmobiles in TV commercials, captivating audiences with their charm.
Bill Hayes embarked on his journey in the soap opera world when he joined the cast of ‘Days of Our Lives‘ in February 1970, portraying the character of Doug Williams, a con artist and lounge singer. His real-life wife, Susan Seaforth Hayes, had joined the show 15 months prior, playing the role of Julie Olsen Banning Anderson Williams, the spoiled heiress.
Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, and it soon mirrored their off-screen romance. Bill and Susan married on October 12, 1974, and their characters exchanged vows in a memorable episode that aired on October 1, 1976. Their on-screen wedding became a historic television moment, with 16 million viewers tuning in to witness their fictional union.
The couple’s enduring popularity led to a historic achievement when they graced the cover of Time magazine on January 12, 1976, becoming the only soap stars to do so. The magazine’s cover story, titled “Soap Operas: Sex and Suffering in the Afternoon,” highlighted their immense influence on daytime television.
Despite departing ‘Days of Our Lives’ in 1984 due to disputes over storylines, Bill and Susan made numerous returns over the decades, consistently delighting viewers. In September 2022, they even appeared on the streaming platform Peacock when the show moved there.
Bill Hayes’ contribution to the world of entertainment extended beyond his acting career. He and Susan authored a joint autobiography titled “Like Sands Through the Hourglass” in 2005, co-authored a historical fiction book called “Trumpet” in 2012, and launched the website “soapoperasecrets.com” in 2021.
Ken Corday, the executive producer of ‘Days of Our Lives,’ expressed his condolences, stating, “I have known Bill for most of my life, and he embodied the heart and soul of ‘Days of Our Lives.’ 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 beloved wife Susan Seaforth Hayes, Bill Hayes is survived by their five children, 12 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren.
Bill Hayes’ career was a testament to his talent, versatility, and enduring impact on the world of entertainment. As fans mourn his passing, his legacy as a soap opera icon and accomplished artist will forever be etched in television history.
