Days of Our Lives: See What the Original Stars Look Like 60 Years Later

NBC’s legendary soap opera Days of Our Lives marked its 60th anniversary on November 8, 2025, celebrating one of the longest-running series in television history. Since its debut in 1965, the show has aired over 15,000 episodes, following the intertwined lives of the Horton and Brady families in the fictional town of Salem, Illinois.

While many of the original stars have passed on, others — like Suzanne Rogers and Deidre Hall — continue to appear on-screen, bridging generations of fans and performers.

A Groundbreaking Start (1965)

When Days of Our Lives first premiered, it introduced television audiences to the tight-knit Horton family led by Frances Reid (Alice Horton) and Macdonald Carey (Dr. Thomas Horton). The drama’s realism and emotional depth helped redefine daytime storytelling, earning it a loyal fan base across six decades.

Actors such as Maree Cheatham, John Clarke, and later Susan Seaforth Hayes contributed to its enduring legacy — with many still honored in NBC’s special anniversary programming.

Voices From the Set: Tributes and Reflections

Veteran actress Deidre Hall (Dr. Marlena Evans) described the milestone as “completely unheard of,” crediting the show’s longevity to “a lot of people doing a lot of things right.”

Susan Seaforth Hayes, one of the few remaining early-era stars, reflected on her partnership with her late husband Bill Hayes, saying their on-screen chemistry mirrored “a lifetime of shared storytelling.”

Meanwhile, executive producer Ken Corday praised the cast’s dedication:

“The success of Days of Our Lives lies in the commitment of actors who treated every episode like the first.”

A Cultural Touchstone

Days of Our Lives has shaped daytime television more than any other soap opera in U.S. history. Its serialized storytelling style influenced shows such as General Hospital and The Young and the Restless.

From iconic storylines like Alice Horton’s moral leadership to Doug and Julie Williams’ legendary romance, the series has not only entertained millions but also mirrored the evolution of American family drama.

What’s Next for “Days of Our Lives”

With NBCUniversal’s renewed streaming strategy through Peacock, the soap’s digital transition ensures Days of Our Lives remains accessible to a global audience. New and legacy characters are expected to converge in 2026 story arcs, as the show continues honoring its original roots.

NBC has also announced a 60th Anniversary Special featuring archival footage and new cast interviews, airing later this month.

Sources

• NBCUniversal Press Release, November 2025

• People Magazine (Caroline Blair, November 8, 2025)

• TV Insider archives

• Soap Opera Digest historical database

• IMDb / NBCU Photo Bank