In its poignant final episode, “Legend: Lost” delivered a heartfelt tribute to the late Bill Hayes, a beloved figure in the soap opera world. For many fans, this marked the end of an era, a moment steeped in nostalgia and deep affection for a man who had graced their screens for decades. The tribute, aired six months after Hayes’s passing at the age of 98, was a moving farewell that resonated with viewers and cast members alike.
Thursday’s episode of the iconic soap opera “Days of Our Lives” was particularly significant, as it featured the last appearance of Hayes, who portrayed the character Doug Williams. Hayes’s final scene was shared with his real-life and on-screen wife, Susan Seaforth Hayes, who has been a mainstay on the show since 1968 as Julie Olson Williams. The couple’s enduring love story both on and off the screen added an extra layer of emotion to this farewell episode.
Bill Hayes first captured hearts in 1970 when he was introduced as Doug Williams, a charming prisoner with a talent for singing in a lounge. His portrayal earned him two Daytime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series in 1975 and 1976. Hayes’s character became a staple of “Days of Our Lives,” with his storyline weaving through various plot twists and turns over the decades.
From his regular appearances until 1984, to his recurring roles in the late ’80s and mid-’90s, Hayes remained a beloved fixture on the show. In 1999, he returned as a full-time cast member, only to be “killed off” in a dramatic twist in 2004. However, longtime fans were delighted when it was revealed that Doug’s death was a hoax, and he was found alive and well on a tropical island.
Bill and Susan Hayes’s real-life romance paralleled their on-screen relationship, making them one of television’s first “super-couples.” Their chemistry and love story captivated audiences, and in October 1974, they married in real life. Their characters, Doug and Julie, even graced the cover of Time Magazine, a testament to their popularity and the impact of their love story on the soap opera genre.
Beyond “Days of Our Lives,” Susan Seaforth Hayes made her mark on other soap operas, including “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “The Young and the Restless,” and “Sunset Beach.” Together, the couple penned their autobiography, “Like Sands Through the Hourglass,” in 2005, offering fans a glimpse into their personal and professional lives. In 2018, they received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 45th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, a fitting recognition of their contributions to daytime television.
The last bow for Bill Hayes came on July 11, 2024, in a deeply moving scene with Susan. The couple’s dialogue was a poignant reflection on their shared journey, both on the show and in real life. Julie’s line, “Did I ever tell you how much I love you?” and Doug’s playful response, “Nope, you never did,” encapsulated the warmth and affection that characterized their relationship.
In this touching final scene, Doug reminisced about their adventures and the beauty they had seen together, concluding with a heartfelt request for another kiss from Julie. The episode, airing on Susan’s 81st birthday, held special significance and served as a beautiful tribute to their enduring love.
Susan Seaforth Hayes shared her thoughts on this final scene with TV Insider, revealing that she had added some personal lines to their last moment together, including Doug’s request for another kiss. Her emotional reflection on their life together resonated with fans, who flooded social media with tributes and memories of Bill Hayes.
The episode was a bittersweet farewell, not only for the fans but for the entire “Days of Our Lives” community. Susan’s message on social media, accompanied by pictures of their younger selves, was a heartfelt thank you to all who had honored Bill with their memories and tears. She expressed her gratitude for the love and joy they had experienced throughout their marriage, ending her message with a red heart emoji and “xx Susan.”
Though Bill Hayes’s final scene has aired, his legacy on “Days of Our Lives” will continue. TVLine reported that in December 2024, the entire town of Salem will come together to honor Doug Williams, ensuring that Hayes’s impact on the show and its fans endures.
As fans reflected on this poignant farewell, many took to social media to express their emotions. One user on X noted the bittersweet nature of the day, while others shared personal stories of growing up watching Bill and Susan, likening them to extended family members. The outpouring of love and respect for Bill Hayes was a testament to his significant role in the lives of many, underscoring the profound connection between the actor and his audience.
In memory of Bill Hayes, fans and fellow cast members paid tribute to his remarkable career and the joy he brought to countless viewers. His final scenes were a fitting send-off for a beloved actor whose legacy will be remembered fondly for years to come.