The emotional storyline of Doug Williams’ passing on Days of Our Lives has left fans devastated, especially after the long-standing character’s death marked the end of

an era for the Horton family. Susan Seaforth Hayes, beloved for her portrayal of Julie Williams, recently opened up about the deeply personal and challenging

process of filming the scenes surrounding Doug’s demise, as well as the emotional toll it took on her.

In a heartfelt interview, Susan shared the difficulties she faced while filming Doug’s death, a scene that was made all the more emotional because Doug, played by her real-life husband Bill Hayes, had been an integral part of the show for decades. The couple’s off-screen relationship added layers of depth and authenticity to their on-screen romance, making Doug’s passing particularly tough to film. Susan admitted, “When they first told me about Doug’s passing, I was stunned. Bill and I have been part of this show for so long, it felt like an extension of our own lives. To imagine a Salem without Doug was heartbreaking.”

While viewers felt the loss of Doug Williams as a cornerstone of Days of Our Lives, for Susan, the grief was personal. The hardest part, she revealed, was filming Doug’s final moments in the Horton living room, surrounded by family. The scene was scripted to be peaceful and poignant, but for Susan, it felt overwhelmingly real. “We rehearsed the scene several times, and each time I thought I could hold it together,” she said. “But when the cameras rolled, and I looked at Bill lying there so still, something inside me just broke.”

The scene, where Julie reflects on her life with Doug, was largely unscripted. Susan explained that the writers gave her beautiful dialogue but encouraged her to speak from the heart. “Many of the lines came straight from my soul, not just Julie’s,” Susan revealed. The emotion in the scene was so raw that it took several takes to capture it, and even the crew was moved to tears. “We all knew we were witnessing the end of something very special,” she shared.

Doug and Julie’s love story has been one of the most iconic in daytime television, with their relationship spanning decades. From their whirlwind romance to their struggles and reconciliations, their story was about love conquering all. “Julie and Doug have been through so much,” Susan smiled. “They’ve fought, reconciled, laughed, and cried—but through it all, they’ve always chosen each other.”

Reflecting on her time working with Bill, Susan admitted that it was impossible to choose just one favorite memory. “There are too many to count,” she said. “But what I treasure the most are the quiet moments between scenes when we’d sit together and marvel at how lucky we were to share this journey.”

The response from fans to Doug’s death has been overwhelming. Social media exploded with messages of love and gratitude for the characters and the actors who brought them to life. Many fans shared their favorite Doug and Julie moments, including their glamorous wedding and emotional reunions. “The fans have been incredible,” Susan said. “Bill and I have always felt their love and support. But this storyline reminded us just how much Doug and Julie mean to them.” Susan and Bill took comfort in reading many of the heartfelt messages together. “It was a beautiful way to reflect on the impact we’ve had,” Susan shared. “Knowing we’ve brought joy and comfort to so many people over the years is the greatest gift.”

Although Doug’s death marks the end of an era, Susan emphasized that Julie’s story is far from over. “Julie will always carry Doug with her,” she said. “His spirit will guide her, and she’ll find ways to honor his memory in everything she does.” Susan also teased that Julie has exciting future storylines ahead. “The writers have some wonderful plans for Julie,” she hinted. “I’m ready to keep bringing her to life as long as the fans want me to.”

The scene where Doug passed away was not only professionally challenging but also personally significant for Susan. It was a bittersweet farewell, as she confronted the reality of loss while celebrating the enduring love between her and Bill—both on screen and off. “Doug and Julie’s story has always been about love conquering all,” she said. “Even in death, that love remains. I think that’s a message we all need right now.”

As Salem moves forward without Doug Williams, his legacy will continue to be felt throughout the Horton family and beyond. For Susan and Bill Hayes, their decades-long journey as one of daytime television’s most iconic couples is a testament to the power of love and storytelling.

Days of Our Lives Spoilers reveal that fans have just witnessed Doug Williams’ heartbreaking departure. As Julie navigates life without her beloved husband, the emotional weight of Doug’s passing continues to resonate with viewers. Days fans will certainly remember Doug’s legacy as one of the most enduring and beloved characters in the history of Salem. Stay tuned for more updates and spoilers as Julie’s journey continues on Days of Our Lives.