‘Day Of Our Lives’ Fans Break Down Over Bill Hayes Tribute
Fans of Days Of Our Lives have been struggling to cope with the death of actor Bill Hayes. Wednesday’s episode of the long-running daytime soap opera paid special tribute to the late TV star and it had viewers crying at home. Continue reading to see reactions from Days Of Our Lives fans.
Fans React To Days Of Our Lives Tribute
Bill Hayes got his claim to fame by playing Doug Williams on the daytime soap opera. He first appeared on the show in 1970 and continued in his role through 2024. The late actor became one of the most beloved characters on the show.
The Day Of Our Lives legend died on January 12, 2024, in Los Angeles. His cause of death has not yet been confirmed. Fans have been mourning his death in real life, but the show took a moment to pay tribute to the recently deceased actor on Wednesday’s episode.
Image: YouTube/US Tonight
For fans, the memorial was soul-crushing. A title card read, “In loving memory of Bill Hayes 1925-2024. Good night, Sweet Prince; and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest…”
People took to social media to express their sadness over Bill Hayes’ death and how unfortunate it is that he won’t be on Days Of Our Lives anymore.
One fan wrote on X that Bills passing “still doesn’t seem real.” Another fan agreed and wrote, “I’m already in tears with all these flashbacks. I’m not ready for this.”
Someone else wrote, “Going to so miss him. Watched him since he first appeared on Days all those years ago. Around early 1970’s.”
Bill Hayes Was The ‘Heart And Soul’ Of The Show
Executive Producer Ken Corday, 73, spoke about Bill Hayes after learning about his death. “I have known Bill for most of my life, and he embodied the heart and soul of Days of Our Lives,” Ken said. “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.”
Viewers shared Ken’s sentiments when they learned of Bill’s passing. “Oh no! He will be surely missed!” one fan tweeted.
Image: YouTube/US Tonight
A second wrote, “Such sad news. He was a staple on Days of Our Lives. “I’m sending all my love and prayers to his family and friends and all who knew him such a tragic loss he will be deeply missed.” Others shared how lucky they’d been to see Bill in his role for as long as they did.
Bill Hayes is survived by his wife, five children, 12 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren as well as countless Days Of Our Lives fans.
For those who wish to see the tribute episode, it is available to stream on Peacock.
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