“Days of Our Lives” Bids Farewell to Doug Williams: Maree Cheatham Returns as Last Surviving Original Cast Member

As “Days of Our Lives” prepares to say goodbye to Doug Williams and his portrayer, Bill Hayes, the soap opera is bringing back Maree Cheatham, the last surviving original cast member. Cheatham, who played Marie Horton, will join a host of returning stars for a memorial episode set to air on December 3, coinciding with the show’s 15,000th episode.

A Tribute to Doug Williams and Bill Hayes

When Hayes passed away on January 12, 2024, at the age of 98, fans knew it was only a matter of time before they had to bid farewell to his iconic character, Doug Williams. Now, “Days of Our Lives” has announced a spectacular and emotional memorial episode to honor both Hayes and his character.

Cheatham, who originated the role of Marie Horton in 1965, will reprise her character for the tribute episode. Marie, the youngest child of Tom and Alice Horton, was the show’s first heroine and endured several traumatic relationships before becoming a nun. Cheatham has returned to the show multiple times over the years, including for tributes to actors who had passed away.

In addition to Cheatham, several other former stars will return to “Days of Our Lives” for the memorial. Melissa Reeves (Jennifer Devereaux), Matthew Ashford (Jack Devereaux), Stephen Schnetzer (Steve Olson), Gloria Loring (Liz Chandler), Martha Madison (Belle Brady), and many others will be part of this special episode.

A Fitting Tribute

The memorial episode will not only honor Doug Williams and Bill Hayes but also celebrate the impact they had on the show and its fans. Executive producer Ken Corday shared that the episode will “resonate for a long time to come with our viewers.”

Doug Williams and Bill Hayes were a part of the “Days of Our Lives” fabric for more than 50 years. With the upcoming memorial episode, the show ensures that their legacy will continue to be remembered and cherished.