Soap Star Bill Hayes Dead At Age 98

Soap actor Bill Hayes, known for playing Doug Williams on 'Days of Our Lives' on and off for five decades, has passed away at the age of 98. 

"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."

'Days of Our Lives' Executive Producer Ken Corday, paid tribute to Hayes saying, "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."

Bill was born William Foster Hayes III in 1925, and stated his onscreen career in the late 40s, starring on Olsen & Johnson's Fireball Fun-for-All.

In 1952, he appeared in 'Stop, You're Killing Me' and three years later, he found success as a singer with 'The Ballad of Davy Crockett.'

He made his debut as Doug on 'Days of Our Lives' in 1970, and portrayed the character on and off until last December. 

He met his wife Susan on set, marrying her in 1974. 

"October 1st, 1976 is a contender for the best day of our lives. In a perfectly beautiful wedding, we shared our on and off screen love with the fans of Doug and Julie. Saying those vows 'to love and cherish' and keeping them, for 46 years has been easy. Bill Hayes IS Prince Charming and I am the luckiest, happiest, most honored of wives."

Last June, the two celebrated Bill's birthday on set with other members of cast and crew. 

Bill is survived by Susan, his five children from his previous marriage to Mary Hobbs, 12 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.