Why Days of our Lives stars Susan Seaforth Hayes and Bill Hayes are the great soap opera love story of all TIME

Susan Seaforth Hayes and the late, great Bill Hayes on Days of our Lives | Image: JPI
Susan Seaforth Hayes and the late, great Bill Hayes on Days of our Lives | Image: JPI

Days of our Lives actress Susan Seaforth Hayes is not only one of daytime TV's longest-running performers, but she's also one of the genre's most thoughtful and eloquent speakers. Today, January 12, she's reflecting on the day's special significance for more than one reason.

Days of our Lives, TIME, see what's become of us

"January 12, a day to remember ❤️," Seaforth Hayes began an Instagram post. "My youngest stepdaughter, Margaret Jackson’s, 70th birthday!"

While the anniversary of Margaret's birth is of personal significance to Seaforth Hayes, the day also holds a professional place in Seaforth Hayes's heart.

"The day, in 1976," the actress continued, "that TIME magazine put Doug and Julie on its cover representing soap operas’ reign over pop culture."

The editors of TIME had options as to who to feature on the cover, as there were approximately 14 (!) soap operas on the air at the time. From that era, only DAYS, General Hospital, and The Young and the Restless are still on the air.

When the Hayeses were being photographed, Seaforth Hayes recalled that TIME magazine has a red border. Wearing a red dress might catch the eye of a layout person and/or decision-maker who thought the colors would complement one another. It also didn't hurt that Doug and Julie were immensely popular at this time, often topping the popularity charts in the fan magazines.

Remembering the late, great Bill Hayes

Julie and Doug in a happy moment on Days of our Lives | Image: JPI
Julie and Doug in a happy moment on Days of our Lives | Image: JPI

The date, January 12, holds another kind of significance for Seaforth Hayes. It's the day "my darling husband said farewell to this world," the actress shares. "I remember all of it, and so does my Days of Our Lives family. I’m wearing Bill’s jacket to work, the [show's] 35th Anniversary jacket.

"This year, we begin our 61st season of DAYS," Seaforth Hayes warmly shares. "I’ve been blessed to have so much opportunity, happiness, and love in my life. The stars I reached for were always shining in his eyes. Today of all days, I wish you love. #BillHayes #DougandJulie #DaysOfOurLives."

"TV’s Greatest Love Story. My Grandparents. Xo," shared David Samuel.

"I still have the issue #iconic," wrote Colleen Zenk (ex-Aunt Jordan, Y&R; ex-Barbara, As the World Turns).

"Doug & Julie. Bill & Susan. Couple Goals!" posted @therealfranktalk. "The love of both couples shines through eternity. We love you so much, Susan! 😍."

Catch all-new episodes of Days of our Lives weekdays on Peacock, NBC's streaming platform.

Edited by Michael Maloney