Deidre Hall Looks Back on Almost 50 Years on "Days of Our Lives" and Hints at Possible Departure (Exclusive)

Deidre Hall is opening up about her long-standing journey on the iconic soap opera Days of Our Lives. The 78-year-old actress, best known for portraying the beloved psychiatrist Marlena Evans, shared her reflections during Peacocks 60th-anniversary celebration of the show on November 8.

"It's more than a show; it's a lifestyle, a family, a place to belong," Hall expressed, recalling her start on the series in 1976. "I raised my children here and enjoyed the best times with the best people."

Hall emphasized the rare longevity of the series: "Nothing else has lasted on television for 60 years. It takes many people doing the right things and strong leadership. This is a family show, always produced by a family. That's why it endures."

The actress humorously added that she plans to continue until her "key doesnt open that gate."

Reflecting on her first day on set, Hall recounted a humorous mix-up between her character and another: "I approached Matt Carey, thinking I was supposed to be Amanda, not Marlena. The scene had to stop, and finally Matt clarified, You're Marlena."

Throughout her tenure, Hall had three separate runs on the show: 19761987, 19912009, and 2011present. Among her most cherished moments is the famous pier scene with John Black, played by Drake Hogestyn. The on-screen couple first married in 1986, and their storyline included dramatic twists, including the characters death.

Hall recalled the impact of the scene: "Seeing John on the pier, thinking I'm dead, and emerging from the foghearing the audience scream was unforgettable. Daytime allows you to deliver the moments viewers eagerly await."

Hogestyn passed away from pancreatic cancer at age 70 on September 28, 2024. Hall shared how deeply she misses him: "He loved being here, and I miss that. Sometimes I just sit on set thinking, 'John is gone! Drake is gone.'

When asked about Marlenas potential new love interests, Hall expressed caution: "I would defer to Ken Corday and our writers. While Marlena has had several relationships, it feels too soon for a new romance. Longtime viewers have their own attachments, and the friendship between Marlena and Julie is something special to watch."

Hall also spoke about the trust she places in the writers, even during bold storylines: "When I was told Marlena would be possessed by the devil, I hesitated. But I trusted Jim Riley and the writersthey know what the audience is ready for. And the response was incredible."

Days of Our Lives is available to stream on Peacock.

Author: Logan Reeves