courtesy Beth's Days Page
Days of Our Lives of was created by a husband and wife team, Ted Corday and Betty Corday, along with Irna Phillips. Days of Our Lives first aired on NBC, November 8 1965 and focused on the trials and tribulations of a family of doctors, "The Hortons", who grew up and worked in a small mid-western town called Salem. The show followed the relationships and careers of these "Salemites" with Dr. Thomas Horton at the realm, Alice Horton at his side as his wife and their five children, Tom Jr., Addie, Mickey, Bill and Marie. Of course, the show introduced additional families to interconnect with the Hortons including the Merritts, Hunters, Bannings, and Andersons. Today, only one original cast member remains. Alice Horton, who is played by Frances Reid.
In our History of Soaps - Past meets the Present, we gave honorable mention to those cast members with the most longevity on the show. We included our show in the mention:
Frances Reid has been with the show since it first aired in 1965 and is the only original character left to this day! In mid 2007, she was given a lifetime contract to remain with the show to which she graciously accepted! Read an update on Frances Reid here.
Susan Seaforth-Hayes came to the show as Julie Olson Williams in 1968 until 1984! She returned again in 1990 - 1994 and again in 1996 and when she returned in 1999, she was set to a recurring character and has been seen various times since.
Bill Hayes took on the contract role of Doug Williams back in 1970 (along with wife Susan Seaforth-Hayes, since 1994), has remained a recurring, lovable character off and on ever since 1993!
Suzanne Rogers originated the role of Maggie Horton in 1974 and much to our delight, continues to play the character as recurring!
Deidre Hall created the role of Dr. Marlena Evans Black in 1976. Though she left the show in 1987, she returned in 1991 where she has remained ever since, as a matriarch!
courtesy Beth's Days Page
Days fans are busy celebrating 42 amazing years in the boards today. Join them Happy 42 Years DAYS!!!!!!!
LondonAngel says, "For being a longtime fan, I hope the writers and producers take note that today (November 8 is their first air date anniversary. And with everyone we have here on the boards, it should still be going strong for another 42 + years.)
Long Live Days and let's keep it going STRONGER THAN EVER!!!!!!"
JennAddis says, "I love days. Long live Days!!!!!!!"
For those who haven't yet seen the first episode or who are craving a little nostalgia, pop some popcorn and sit down to view the first episode of the show!
Days Of Our Lives First Episode Part 1
Days Of Our Lives First Episode Part 2
Days Of Our Lives First Episode Part 3
Soaps.com wants to send a special thank you to Ted and Betty Corday and Irna Phillips, and a congratulations to them, NBC, Sony Pictures and the cast and crew at Days of Our Lives for touching our lives for 42 amazing years! Your loyal fans hope to watch for another 42 years to come!
