Bill Hayes Obituary and Cause of Death, What Happened to Bill Hayes? How did Bill Hayes Die?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jan 13, 2024
Bill Hayes Obituary
Days of Our Lives star Bill Hayes, renowned for his enduring portrayal of 'Doug Williams' since 1970, has passed away at the age of 98. The actor, born William Foster Hayes III, leaves behind a legacy that spans over five decades on the beloved soap opera. A representative for Days of Our Lives confirmed the news, expressing a heavy heart and emphasizing Hayes' indelible impact on the show. Bill Hayes' contribution to the soap opera world was not only marked by his talent but also by his commitment, having portrayed the character of Doug Williams continuously throughout his life.
Hayes' passing marks the end of an era for Days of Our Lives, as his presence on the show has been a constant for fans over the years. His role as Doug Williams became iconic, and his dedication to the character resonated with audiences. The actor's death is a poignant moment for the soap opera community, and as we bid farewell to Bill Hayes, we acknowledge the lasting impression he made on the hearts of viewers and the television industry at large.
Who was Bill Hayes?
Bill Hayes was not only an accomplished American actor but also a notable recording artist. Beginning his musical career in the late 1940s, he achieved considerable success, with his song "The Ballad of Davy Crockett" reaching the top of the Billboard charts in the spring of 1955. Transitioning from music to acting in the late 1960s, Hayes found a new avenue for his talents.
In 1970, Hayes embarked on a chapter that would define a significant part of his career, originating the character of Doug Williams on NBC's long-running soap opera, Days of Our Lives. This role not only brought him fame among a younger generation but also became a lasting legacy, as he portrayed Doug Williams continuously until 2023. Bill Hayes' multifaceted career showcased his versatility, leaving an indelible mark both in the music industry and the world of dramatic acting.
Specifications
Details
Name
William Foster Hayes III
Born
June 5, 1925
Born Place
Harvey, Illinois, U.S.
Died
January 12, 2024
Age
98
Occupation(s)
Actor, singer
Years active
1948–2023
Spouses
Mary Hobbs (m. 1947; div. 1969)
Susan Seaforth Hayes (m. 1974)
Children
5
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Bill Hayes Wives and Children
Bill Hayes had two significant chapters in his marital life. His first marriage was to Mary Hobbs, lasting from 1947 to 1969, during which they welcomed five children into their family. Following the end of his first marriage, Bill found love again on the set of "Days of Our Lives." His on-screen connection with co-star Susan Seaforth Hayes evolved into a real-life romance, leading to their marriage in October 1974. Their relationship was commemorated on screen when their characters also exchanged vows on October 1, 1976, in a second wedding.
Bill and Susan's love story became iconic, earning them a spot on the cover of Time magazine in 1976, a unique distinction for soap opera stars. Their enduring connection extended beyond the screen, culminating in the joint publication of their autobiography, "Like Sands Through the Hourglass," in 2005. The couple's commitment to philanthropy was evident in their support for the West Texas Rehab Center, where they hosted an annual telethon in Abilene, Texas. Bill Hayes is survived by his son, William Foster Hayes IV, highlighting the enduring impact of his personal and family life.
Bill Hayes Early Life and Education
Bill Hayes, born as William Foster Hayes III on June 5, 1925, in Harvey, Illinois, experienced a formative early life. He attended Whittier Grade School and Thornton Township High, laying the foundation for his educational journey. In March 1943, during his freshman year at DePauw University, the young Hayes made a significant decision by enlisting in the Navy Air Corps. A pivotal moment occurred on his eighteenth birthday when he received a welcome letter instructing him to report for active duty on July 1, 1943, setting the course for his early adulthood.
After the challenges and experiences of military service, Hayes returned to complete his education. He graduated from DePauw University with majors in both music and English, showcasing his diverse interests. During his time at DePauw, he became a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, contributing to his broader college experience. Building upon his passion for music, Hayes went on to earn a master's degree in music from Northwestern University. His academic pursuits continued, culminating in a Ph.D. in education from West Virginia University, demonstrating his commitment to both the arts and scholarly endeavors in his early life.
Bill Hayes Career
Bill Hayes' career is a remarkable journey that spans various domains, from his military service during World War II to his successes in the worlds of music, acting, and television. After enlisting in the Navy Air Corps and training to become a fighter pilot for 27 months, Hayes was on the brink of receiving his commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Air Corps when World War II concluded. Opting for civilian life, he celebrated his return with a hitch-hiking adventure before completing his Bachelor of Arts at DePauw University in 1947, majoring in Music and English.
Hayes found early success as a singer on the Sid Caesar and Imogene Coca variety show Your Show of Shows in the early 1950s. His rendition of "The Ballad of Davy Crockett" during the 1955 craze became a chart-topping hit, securing his place in music history. Alongside his musical achievements, Hayes also showcased his acting talent, starring on Broadway in Rodgers and Hammerstein's Me and Juliet (1953) and having a supporting role in the 1952 black comedy Stop, You're Killing Me.
Later in his career, Bill Hayes became an integral part of the soap opera Days of Our Lives, initially introduced as a convict and lounge singer. Despite being killed off in 2004, the character of Doug Williams made triumphant returns in various plot twists, demonstrating the enduring popularity of Hayes' portrayal. His impact is further highlighted by the 2017 documentary World by the Tail, which delves into his life, and his impromptu interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, showcasing his enduring connection with audiences. Hayes' career is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal across different facets of the entertainment industry.
Bill Hayes Net Worth
Bill Hayes Net Worth is around $5 million. He earned income through a multifaceted career that spanned music, acting, and education. In the early 1950s, he gained prominence as a singer on the Sid Caesar and Imogene Coca variety show "Your Show of Shows," showcasing his musical talent. One of his notable achievements was the chart-topping success of "The Ballad of Davy Crockett" in 1955, which sold over two million copies and earned him a gold disc.
Additionally, Hayes had a supporting role in the 1952 black comedy film "Stop, You're Killing Me" and starred on Broadway in Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Me and Juliet" in 1953. These ventures into music and acting contributed significantly to his financial success.Moreover, his enduring portrayal of Doug Williams on the soap opera "Days of Our Lives" from 1970 until his passing in 2023 also contributed to his income, solidifying his status as a respected and financially successful figure in the entertainment industry.
Bill Hayes Cause of Death
The cause of Bill Hayes' death at the age of 98 has not been disclosed, leaving the circumstances surrounding his passing shrouded in mystery. The actor, renowned for his enduring portrayal of 'Doug Williams' on Days of Our Lives since 1970, bid farewell to fans and colleagues, marking the end of a remarkable career. As a beloved and longstanding cast member, Hayes' contribution to the soap opera world is remembered, and his legacy as Doug Williams will live on in the hearts of viewers. The official announcement, made by a representative for Days of Our Lives, expressed a collective heavy heart among those who worked with and admired Bill Hayes.
What Happened to Bill Hayes?
Bill Hayes, the enduring star of Days of Our Lives, passed away at the age of 98, leaving a void in the soap opera world. The cause of his death has not been disclosed. Known for originating the role of 'Doug Williams' in 1970, Hayes dedicated his life to portraying the character on the show. His death was confirmed by a representative for Days of Our Lives, expressing a collective sense of loss for one of the longest-running and beloved figures in the series. Bill Hayes' indelible legacy as Doug Williams will be cherished in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
How did Bill Hayes Die?
The cause of Bill Hayes' death at the age of 98 has not been disclosed, adding a layer of mystery to the passing of the Days of Our Lives star. The actor, who portrayed 'Doug Williams' since 1970, left a lasting impact on the soap opera community. The announcement, made by a representative for Days of Our Lives, expressed a profound sense of loss, but the specifics surrounding Hayes' demise remain private. As fans mourn the actor's passing, his indelible legacy as Doug Williams will endure in the hearts of those who cherished his contributions to the long-running series.
Bill Hayes Obituary - FAQs
No, the cause of Bill Hayes' death has not been disclosed, adding a level of privacy to the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Bill Hayes, the longtime cast member of Days of Our Lives, has passed away at the age of 98. The specifics of what transpired leading to his death have not been publicly disclosed.
The details of Bill Hayes' cause of death have not been revealed. The actor's passing was confirmed without specifying the circumstances or factors that led to his demise.
As of now, there is no public information regarding Bill Hayes' health leading up to his death. The specific details surrounding his health conditions remain undisclosed.
Bill Hayes had a remarkable legacy in the entertainment industry, notably for his portrayal of 'Doug Williams' on Days of Our Lives since 1970. His contributions as an actor and musician, especially with the chart-topping song "The Ballad of Davy Crockett," have left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans.