Bill Hayes was an American actor who is best known for his role as Doug Williams on the soap opera “Days of Our Lives,” as well as his performances in Broadway musicals and various television shows.
Personal and Family Life
Bill Hayes, born William Foster Hayes III on June 5, 1925, in Harvey, Illinois, grew up in a family that appreciated the arts, thanks in part to his father’s love for singing and community theater. He had five children with his first wife, Mary Lorraine Hobbs, whom he married while attending DePauw University. In 1974, he married fellow actress Susan Seaforth Hayes, with whom he shared a successful career in daytime television.
Career Highlights
Hayes began his career with singing telegrams and night club performances before landing a key role in “Days of Our Lives,” which brought him great fame. His character Doug Williams evolved from a con artist to a beloved figure, especially after his on-screen romance with Julie Olson, played by Susan Seaforth. Bill’s versatile talents also led him to Broadway productions, where he gained recognition for his strong tenor voice.
Death and Legacy
Bill Hayes passed away on January 12, 2024, in Studio City, Los Angeles, California. He left behind a rich legacy in the entertainment industry, remembered for both his acting and singing talents. His long-lasting impact is also seen through his work with his wife, Susan, with whom he shared both a personal and professional life that inspired many fans.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Cardinal | 1963-12-12 | Frank Fermoyle |
| China: The Panda Adventure | 2001-06-09 | Narrator |
| Stop, You’re Killing Me | 1952-12-10 | Chancellor Whitelaw |
| Never Can Say Good-bye | 2018-07-10 | Daniel |
| Miracle at Gate 213 | 2013-12-10 | Louis Darling |
| Wonders of Puerto Rico | 1958-12-10 | |
| Big Men | 2014-03-14 | |
| 9 Dead Gay Guys | 2003-09-19 | Dirty Ole’ Irish Tramp |
| Once Upon a Mattress | 1964-06-03 | Minstrel |
| The Making of Rock & Rule | 1983-01-01 | Narrator (voice) |
| Childstar | 2004-09-10 | Hockey Announcer |
| Wrestling with God | 1990-01-01 | Thomas Campbell |
| Matlock | 1986-03-03 | |
| Hallmark Hall of Fame | 1951-12-24 | Colonel Fairfax |
| Your Show of Shows | 1950-02-25 | |
| Caesar Presents | 1955-07-04 | |
| Frasier | 1993-09-16 | Neil ‘Sully’ Sullivan |
| Decoy | 1957-10-14 | Gordon Troy |
| Days of Our Lives | 1965-11-08 | Doug Williams |
| The Ed Sullivan Show | 1948-06-20 | Self |
| Hallmark Hall of Fame | 1951-12-24 | Bill Calhoun / Lucentio |
| The Mike Douglas Show | 1961-12-11 | Self |
| The Mike Douglas Show | 1961-12-11 | Self – Co-Host |
| The Bob Hope Show | 1950-04-09 | Self |
| The Bell Telephone Hour | 1959-01-12 | Self |
| Hooperman | 1987-09-23 | Buddy Stern |