“Susan Seaforth Hayes, the iconic Julie Williams from Days of Our Lives, has shared an emotional and poignant message with her fans that has sparked speculation about her future with the soap. In an Instagram post that combines gratitude, reflection, and love, Susan opens up about her life at 82, her family, and the legacy of her late husband, Bill Hayes. The post raises the question: Is Susan preparing to bid farewell to Salem? Let’s dive into her heartfelt message and what it means for her future on the show.”

Detailed Analysis:
In her Instagram post, Susan starts by sharing a piece of life advice that has clearly shaped her journey. At 82, she writes:
“I recommend that anyone over 40 make friends with younger people. Their support and companionship is unlike any other and keeps you grounded in life.”
This isn’t just casual advice; it’s a reflection of Susan’s own experiences, staying connected and vibrant as she moves through life, both as a public figure and a person. It highlights the importance of intergenerational relationships, something that mirrors her character on Days of Our Lives — Julie Williams, a matriarch who has guided and influenced many characters over the years.

However, it’s the next part of her post that has captured the hearts of fans. “I am blessed with six grandsons, each carrying Bill Hayes’ genes and each marrying a great lady.” These words serve as a tribute to her late husband, Bill Hayes, who passed away in January 2024 at 98. Bill was not only her partner in life but also her on-screen soulmate as Doug Williams. Their love story on Days was legendary, and off-screen, their bond was equally powerful. With his passing, Susan’s words took on an even deeper meaning, highlighting the continuity of their legacy through their children and grandchildren.

Susan’s post takes us on a journey to Michigan, where she spent a weekend surrounded by her grandsons and their families. Her words paint a vivid picture of a family united by love, strength, and devotion:
“As fathers, husbands, creators, and citizens, they shine with love and purpose.” This moment was not just a family gathering but a celebration of life and a way of honoring the past while embracing the present. The imagery of a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan, accompanied by cherry pie, evokes warmth, togetherness, and joy. But amidst the laughter and connection, there is a moment of reflection. Susan visited Bill’s resting place, a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the enduring power of love.

The Metropolis Shipwreck: A Symbol of Resilience:
In a moving passage, Susan reflects on witnessing the wreck of the Metropolis, a famous shipwreck submerged beneath the waters of Lake Michigan. This haunting image symbolizes resilience and the passage of time. Susan shared, “It was a private moment, a touching moment, a perfect moment.” The wreck of the Metropolis becomes a powerful metaphor for Susan’s own life and career. Just as the ship has endured the test of time beneath the water, Susan’s presence in Salem and her legacy as Julie Williams remains steadfast, a symbol of resilience through decades of change in both her personal and professional life.

Is Susan Leaving Days of Our Lives?
While Susan’s heartfelt Instagram post has sparked speculation about her departure from Days of Our Lives, there is no concrete evidence that she is leaving the show. In fact, her vibrant spirit and deep connection to her family and fans suggest she’s far from ready to slow down. Her pride in her grandsons, the vivid recounting of her weekend in Michigan, and her ongoing involvement in her family’s legacy all point to a woman who remains actively engaged with life and the world around her. While it’s impossible to ignore the emotional weight of her message, it might be more of a celebration of life and legacy than a farewell.

The Legacy of Susan and Bill Hayes

To understand Susan’s journey, we must honor the legacy she shared with Bill Hayes. Their love story began in the early 1970s when they met on the set of Days of Our Lives. Their chemistry as Doug and Julie became a defining moment in soap opera history, and off-screen, their marriage was a rare and beautiful thing in the entertainment industry. With Bill’s passing in 2024, Susan has carried forward their shared legacy, both in her work and in her family life.

What Lies Ahead?

Susan’s role as Julie Williams has been central to Days of Our Lives for decades, and the thought of Salem without her feels unimaginable. Yet, as fans, we can take solace in knowing that her legacy — both on the screen and off — is far from over. Whether or not Susan leaves Days in the future, her impact on the show, her fans, and her family will continue to shine brightly.

As we reflect on Susan’s words, we are reminded of the beauty of life’s fleeting moments and the power of connection. In sharing her journey, Susan has gifted us a glimpse into her life, her love for Bill, and the legacy that will live on through her family and the characters she’s brought to life.