Welcome back to the TV Days Drama Digest channel, your premier source for all things Days of Our Lives. Today, we’re spotlighting Susan
Seaforth Hayes, the beloved actress who has brought Julie Williams to life for decades. Susan recently shared a heartwarming and personal
story that left fans both surprised and enchanted—a tale connecting her rich television history to the iconic Broadway musical Wicked.
In a heartfelt post, Susan revealed how her experience watching Wicked this past weekend resonated deeply with her. Describing it as an “enchanting joy ride,” she praised the musical’s unforgettable characters, Elphaba and Glinda the Good. But her connection to Glinda, the Good Witch, reaches far beyond the stage, tracing back to a magical intersection of her own life with the original Glinda from The Wizard of Oz.
Susan shared a revelation that delighted fans: as a child actress, she had the rare privilege of working with Billie Burke, the original Glinda from the 1939 MGM classic The Wizard of Oz. This connection, long before Wicked revived Glinda’s legacy, added an extra layer of nostalgia and magic to Susan’s post. Recounting her memories, Susan revealed she spent two formative years working alongside Billie Burke in a theater production titled Mother Was a Bachelor. At 75 years old, Billie still possessed a grace and charm that defied gravity, leaving a lasting impression on a young Susan.
The production, which toured the United States and concluded with a live NBC performance in 1955, wasn’t just another milestone in Susan’s early career. It was a defining moment that connected her to a cinematic legend and enriched her understanding of storytelling and performance.
What makes Susan’s connection to Billie Burke even more remarkable is the coincidence tying her past to her present. The same NBC studio where she performed alongside Billie in the 1950s became her home for over five decades as Julie Williams on Days of Our Lives. Reflecting on this full-circle moment, Susan noted the significance of spending 54 incredible years at the very studio where her journey alongside Billie began. Her post celebrates not just her career longevity but the enduring power of connections and storytelling that bridge generations.
In a touching tribute to Wicked, Susan thanked the cast, particularly Elphaba and Glinda, for their unforgettable performances. Mixing her trademark wit with heartfelt gratitude, she concluded her post with a playful nod to her admiration, saying, “Thank you, Elphaba. Thank you, Glinda. As they say in New England, you are wicked good!” Susan also expressed appreciation for her husband, Bill Hayes, affectionately referring to him as her own “Billy,” delighting fans with this personal touch.
Fans were quick to flood the comments section with messages of admiration and nostalgia, celebrating Susan’s ability to weave her personal and professional history into such an inspiring narrative. Her connections to both The Wizard of Oz and Wicked highlight themes of magic, resilience, and transformation—qualities that resonate with viewers and underscore why Susan remains a cherished icon in the entertainment industry.
Susan’s journey reminds us of the timelessness of great stories and the magic of shared experiences. Her story isn’t just a nostalgic anecdote—it’s a testament to the enduring influence of artists like Billie Burke and the way their legacies inspire and shape future generations.
As Days of Our Lives continues to captivate audiences, Susan Seaforth Hayes stands as a shining example of the talent and heart that define the show. Her heartfelt reflections on her connections to Wicked and Billie Burke offer fans a glimpse into the rich history that informs her iconic portrayal of Julie Williams.
What do you think of Susan’s heartwarming connection to Wicked and The Wizard of Oz? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more updates and behind-the-scenes stories from your favorite Days of Our Lives stars. Stay tuned for more captivating tales and unforgettable moments!