A beloved soap opera star recently gave fans a new glimpse of life on the set of one of television’s longest-running daytime dramas.
Deidre Hall, best known for playing Dr. Marlena Evans on “Days of Our Lives,” appeared in a recent Instagram photo from the set of the NBC soap. The 78-year-old actress posed in a tailored suit before switching to a Team USA hockey jersey, while filming scenes for the iconic series, which is celebrating a major milestone with its 60th anniversary.
Hall has portrayed Marlena for nearly five decades, becoming one of the most recognizable figures in daytime television. Over the years, her performance has earned three Daytime Emmy nominations and helped define the show’s long-running success.
Deidre Hall Shares New Look From ‘Days’ Set
Hall’s recent social media appearance offered fans a new look at the veteran actress as she continues working on “Days of Our Lives.” The Wisconsin native, who was raised in Florida, has remained closely tied to the series since first joining the cast in 1976.
Before becoming synonymous with the role of Marlena Evans, Hall built an early television career with appearances on several popular series. Her early credits include roles on “The Streets of San Francisco,” “Emergency!,” and “Columbo.”
Hall also appeared on “The Young and the Restless” as Barbara Anderson and played Nurse Sally Lewis on the first two seasons of “Emergency!”
In 1976, Hall landed the role that would define her career when she joined “Days of Our Lives” as psychiatrist Dr. Evans.
Around the same time, she also starred in “Electra Woman and Dyna Girl,” a live-action Saturday morning children’s series in which she played superhero Electra Woman.
Deidre Hall Reflects on ‘Days of Our Lives’ Legacy
Hall recently spoke about the enduring legacy of “Days of Our Lives” during an interview with People as the show approached its 60th anniversary.
“It’s a lifestyle, it’s a family, it’s a place to belong,” Hall said. “I raised my children here, the best time with the best people.”
She also emphasized the significance of the show’s 60th anniversary on television.
“Nothing’s been on television for 60 years? You must realize that,” Hall said. “So I’ve said it before, but it’s a lot of people doing a lot of things right, and we’ve got good leadership.”
Hall added that the show’s family-oriented structure has helped it remain successful for decades.
“We’re a family show. We’re running and produced and run by a family, always have been, so it just makes sense that we would last 60 years,” Hall said.
Hall also joked that she plans to remain with the series as long as possible.
She said she hopes to stay on the show until her “key doesn’t open that gate.”
The actress also recalled a memorable moment from her first day filming the series.
“I had a scene with Mac Carey, and I approached him. He was working with Mary Frann, who played Amanda, and I thought she’s so beautiful, and I was transfixed watching her work,” Hall said.
“Mac was introducing us, and he said, ‘I’d like you to meet Dr. Evans.’ And I said, ‘Oh no, please call me Amanda.’ And the scene stopped.”
Hall said the mistake quickly became a learning experience.
“I waited for somebody to figure out they messed up. And finally, Mac came in and said, ‘Darling, she’s Amanda. You’re Marlena,’” Hall recalled. “So that was my first day. Try to remember who you’re playing. A good life lesson.”
