Days of Our Lives 1965 is a classic film that captivated audiences with its powerful storyline and memorable performances.
However, as time has passed, some of the talented actors from this iconic movie are no longer with us. In this tribute, we take a moment to honor the lives and legacies of these remarkable individuals who left an indelible mark on cinema.
Join us as we remember 28 stars of Days of Our Lives whose contributions to film continue to inspire and resonate, even though they have passed on.
McDonald Carey, who portrayed the wise and compassionate Dr. Tom Horton on Days of Our Lives from its inception in 1965, was 52 years old when he first took on the role of the show’s patriarch. Dr. Horton was the moral pillar of the Horton family, offering guidance and love to those around him with a steady hand.
Carey’s portrayal of Tom was characterized by his warmth and deep sense of responsibility, which earned him a special place in the hearts of viewers. Offscreen, Carey’s life was a bit more complicated. He was married several times, with his first marriage ending in divorce. His second marriage, to his wife with whom he had children, was more successful but still faced the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life.
Carey also struggled with alcohol addiction for a time, which affected his personal relationships. Nevertheless, his professionalism and dedication to his craft were always evident. Carey passed away in 1994 at the age of 81 after a long battle with cancer. His estate, estimated to be $1.5 million, was left to his family. Carey’s passing marked the end of an era on Days of Our Lives, but his legacy as Dr. Tom Horton lives on. He is remembered for his contribution to the series and for his resilience in the face of personal struggles.
Frances Reid, who portrayed the beloved Alice Horton from the very first episode of Days of Our Lives in 1965, was 51 years old when she took on the role of the kind-hearted matriarch of the Horton family. Alice’s character was a constant symbol of love, strength, and wisdom, guiding her family through the ups and downs of life in Salem.
Reid’s portrayal of Alice made her an integral part of the show for over 40 years, becoming a beloved figure to generations of viewers. In her personal life, Reid had her own share of struggles. She was married twice, with her first marriage ending in divorce, and her second marriage also faced its share of challenges, though it lasted many years. Despite the difficulties in her personal relationships, Reid found a sense of family and community with her co-stars, whom she considered her second family.
She had no children of her own, but her strong bonds with the cast and crew made her an essential figure in the Days of Our Lives family. After retiring from the series, Reid lived a quieter life, focusing on her personal passions and enjoying time with her close friends. She passed away in 2010 at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion both on and off the screen. Her estate was valued at $2 million, which she generously donated to charitable causes, including those benefiting the arts.
Bill Hayes, who debuted on Days of Our Lives in 1970 as Doug Williams, was 45 years old when he first brought the charming and witty character to life. Doug’s light-heartedness and humor made him one of the most beloved characters on the show, and Bill’s portrayal of the character resonated deeply with fans.
Offscreen, Hayes’s personal life mirrored some of Doug’s romantic ups and downs. He was married twice—first to actress and singer Susan Seaforth, who played Julie Williams on Days of Our Lives. Their on-screen chemistry turned into a real-life relationship, and they had a son together. However, their marriage was not without its struggles, and despite their best efforts, they eventually separated.
Despite this, Bill remained close to his family and continued working in television for many years. His portrayal of Doug Williams became one of the most iconic roles in daytime television history, making Bill a household name. In 2024, Bill Hayes passed away at the age of 98, and his estate was estimated at around $5 million. Much of his wealth was garnered from his decades-long involvement with Days of Our Lives. His legacy as one of the show’s most beloved actors continues to be celebrated. Bill will be remembered for his wit, charm, and the genuine kindness he extended to everyone around him.
