How Old Is Susan Seaforth Hayes

How Old Is Susan Seaforth Hayes?

Have you ever wondered how someone can stay on television for over five decades? Susan Seaforth Hayes has done exactly that, and she's still going strong. Born on July 11, 1943, she is currently 81 years old — and honestly, you'd never guess it.

Her career is one of those rare stories that feels almost unreal. Days of Our Lives has been airing since 1965, and Susan joined the cast in 1968. That means she has been playing the same character for more than half a century, which is pretty wild when you think about it.

A Soap Opera Legend

Who else can say they've been playing the same role longer than most marriages last? Julie Olson Williams has been a staple of daytime television since the late 1960s. The character has gone through marriages, heartbreaks, and dramatic plot twists — and Susan has been right there through every single one.

Her longevity on the show is something that even soap opera fans find astonishing. Susan Seaforth Hayes holds the record as one of the longest-running actors in American soap opera history. Not many people can say they've been on the same show since before color television became the norm.

A Love Story On and Off Screen

Here's where things get even more interesting. Susan married Bill Hayes, who played Doug Williams on Days of Our Lives. Their real-life romance was so beloved that it was woven into the storyline of the show itself. How cool is that?

The couple was married for decades, and their on-screen chemistry was something fans still talk about today. Bill Hayes passed away in 2024, but Susan continues to carry their legacy forward. Their partnership has been described as one of the most genuine love stories in entertainment history.

Days of Our Lives' Susan Seaforth Hayes Talks Life After Bill Hayes' Death

What Keeps Her Going?

At 81, you might wonder what drives someone to keep working in such a demanding industry. Susan has often spoken about her deep love for the character of Julie. She has said that playing Julie feels less like a job and more like a calling.

Her dedication to the role has been recognized with multiple awards, including Daytime Emmy nominations. Susan Seaforth Hayes has also been inducted into the Soap Opera Hall of Fame, which is a pretty fitting honor for someone who has given so much to the genre.

More Than Just a Soap Star

Before Days of Our Lives, Susan had already built a career in television and film. She appeared in shows like Dragnet and The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet during the 1960s. Her talent was clearly recognized early on, even before she became a household name.

Soap Stars Who've Played Their Roles for 40 Years or More

She has also been active in advocating for the arts and supporting her fellow actors. Susan Seaforth Hayes has used her platform to speak about the importance of representation and longevity in entertainment. Her voice carries weight because of the decades she has spent in the industry.

Why It Matters

In a world where fame can feel fleeting, Susan Seaforth Hayes stands as a reminder that consistency and passion matter. She has been a constant presence for generations of viewers who grew up watching Julie Olson Williams navigate life's ups and downs.

At 81, she continues to appear on Days of Our Lives, proving that age is really just a number. Can you imagine still doing what you love at her age? It's genuinely inspiring, and it's a big part of why so many people admire her.

So the next time you see her on screen, remember — you're watching a legend in action. Susan Seaforth Hayes is not just old; she is timeless. And that's what makes her story so incredibly cool.