Deidre Hall, the beloved star of NBC’s Days of Our Lives, has marked nearly 50 years portraying Dr. Marlena Evans as the iconic soap opera celebrates its 60th anniversary. Hall shared her favorite memories from the set — from working with her twin sister Andrea Hall to enduring hilarious pranks by co-star Wayne Northrop.
Hall’s reflections highlight the relationships, laughter, and endurance that have made Days of Our Lives one of television’s longest-running dramas.
The Story Behind Her Legacy
Who: Deidre Hall, who joined Days of Our Lives in 1976, became a cornerstone of the series as Dr. Marlena Evans.
What: The Emmy-nominated actress reflected on her decades-long career, revisiting pivotal storylines and her collaboration with her twin sister Andrea Hall, who played Samantha Evans and later Hattie Adams.
When: The reflections were shared ahead of the show’s 60th anniversary celebration on November 8, 2025.
Where: NBC Studios, Los Angeles.
Why: Hall’s feature interview honors both her remarkable run and the enduring legacy of one of television’s most beloved daytime dramas.
How: Through candid recollections of career milestones, fan interactions, and on-set humor that have kept her character — and the show — timeless.
Quotes & Reactions
Hall recalled her first moments on set with veteran actors Macdonald Carey and Frances Reid:
“They were just spellbinding to me,” Hall said. “Mac looked at me and said, ‘No darling, she’s Amanda. You’re Marlena.’”
On working with her twin sister Andrea, Hall added:
“Anne Marcus, our head writer, asked what story I’d always wanted to do. I told her I had a twin, and she said, ‘Can we get her?’ Suddenly, the game changed.”
She also remembered the fan uproar after Andrea’s character was mistakenly believed to be Marlena:
“Fans picketed the studio thinking I’d been killed off. It was a simpler time when secrets stayed secret — and audiences could still be surprised.”
A Career That Defined Daytime TV
Deidre Hall’s portrayal of Marlena Evans has been central to Days of Our Lives’ identity for nearly half a century. Her commitment and versatility — from dramatic arcs like demonic possession to heartfelt love stories — helped sustain the soap’s cultural relevance.
Her chemistry with co-star Wayne Northrop (Roman Brady) was equally defining. Known for his on-set antics, Northrop’s humor contributed to an atmosphere of camaraderie that remains legendary among cast members.
Hall’s endurance on daytime television continues to set a standard for longevity and fan devotion in American entertainment.
The Celebration Continues
NBC’s Days of Our Lives will continue its anniversary celebrations through special retrospective episodes and interviews with cast veterans. Hall remains an active member of the ensemble, stating:
“It’s been 50 years, it’s new every day, and I couldn’t be happier. Sixty years is a really good thing to celebrate.”
The series airs weekdays on Peacock, continuing its record-breaking run as one of the most enduring dramas in television history.
Sources:
Yahoo Entertainment (Stephanie Sloane)
TV Insider
NBC / Peacock Official
