In the emotional final episode of “Legend: Lost,” the show delivered a touching tribute to the late Bill Hayes, a much-loved figure in the soap opera world. For many fans, this was more than just the end of a show; it was the end of an era, filled with memories and deep affection for a man who had been a familiar face on their screens for decades.
This special tribute aired six months after Hayes passed away at the age of 98, and it was a farewell that moved both viewers and the cast alike.
Thursday’s episode of the iconic soap opera “Days of Our Lives” was particularly special because it featured Bill Hayes’s final appearance as Doug Williams. This last scene was made even more poignant because it was shared with his real-life and on-screen wife, Susan Seaforth Hayes, who has played Julie Olson Williams on the show since 1968. Their love story, both on and off the screen, added a powerful emotional layer to this farewell.
Bill Hayes first stole hearts in 1970 when he debuted as Doug Williams, a charming prisoner with a gift for singing in a lounge. His performance was so captivating that it earned him two Daytime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series in 1975 and 1976. Over the years, Doug Williams became a beloved character on “Days of Our Lives,” with his story unfolding through countless twists and turns that kept fans hooked.
Hayes was a constant presence on the show, from his regular appearances until 1984 to his recurring roles in the late ’80s and mid-’90s. In 1999, he returned full-time, only to be dramatically “killed off” in 2004. But in true soap opera fashion, fans were thrilled to find out that Doug’s death was just a hoax, and he was discovered alive on a tropical island—a twist that delighted longtime viewers.
The real-life romance between Bill and Susan Hayes mirrored their on-screen relationship, making them one of TV’s first “super-couples.” Their chemistry was undeniable, and their love story captivated audiences. In October 1974, the two got married in real life, and their characters, Doug and Julie, even made it to the cover of Time Magazine—a testament to their popularity and the impact they had on the soap opera world.
Beyond “Days of Our Lives,” Susan Seaforth Hayes also shined on other soap operas, like “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “The Young and the Restless,” and “Sunset Beach.” Together, Bill and Susan wrote their autobiography, “Like Sands Through the Hourglass,” in 2005, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at their lives and careers.
In 2018, they were honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 45th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, recognizing their immense contributions to daytime television.
Bill Hayes’s final moment on the show came on July 11, 2024, in a deeply moving scene with Susan. The dialogue between their characters was a beautiful reflection of their shared journey, both on-screen and in real life. In one tender moment, Julie asks, “Did I ever tell you how much I love you?” Doug responds with a playful, “Nope, you never did,” capturing the warmth and affection that defined their relationship.
In this final scene, Doug looks back on their adventures and the beauty they’ve seen together, ending with a heartfelt request for another kiss from Julie. The episode, airing on Susan’s 81st birthday, held even more significance, serving as a touching tribute to their lasting love.
Susan Seaforth Hayes later shared with TV Insider that she added some personal lines to this final scene, including Doug’s request for another kiss. Her reflections on their life together resonated with fans, who poured out their tributes and memories of Bill Hayes on social media.
The episode was a bittersweet farewell, not just for the fans, but for the entire “Days of Our Lives” community. Susan shared a message on social media, along with pictures of them in their younger years, expressing her deep gratitude to everyone who honored Bill with their memories and tears.
She ended her heartfelt message with a red heart emoji and “xx Susan,” a small but meaningful sign-off from a woman who had shared so much love and joy with her husband.
Even though Bill Hayes’s final scene has aired, his legacy on “Days of Our Lives” will live on. According to TVLine, the entire town of Salem will gather in December 2024 to honor Doug Williams, ensuring that Bill Hayes’s impact on the show and its fans continues.
As fans looked back on this emotional farewell, many took to social media to share their feelings. One user on X described the day as bittersweet, while others shared stories of growing up watching Bill and Susan, saying they felt like part of their extended family.
The outpouring of love and respect for Bill Hayes showed just how much he meant to so many people, highlighting the deep connection between the actor and his audience.
In memory of Bill Hayes, fans and fellow cast members celebrated his incredible 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 cherished for many years to come.
