Deidre Hall Opens Up About Soap Operas Bringing Characters Back from the Dead: ‘It’s a Thing We Get to Do in Daytime’

**Deidre Hall Reflects on 50 Years as Dr. Marlena Evans in ‘Days of Our Lives’**

Deidre Hall, celebrated actress and daytime television icon, has been captivating audiences for half a century in her role as Dr. Marlena Evans on the long-running soap opera *Days of Our Lives*. At the age of 78, Hall has witnessed the show’s evolution, filled with dramatic twists and imaginative storylines which often tread into the realm of the absurd.

In a recent interview on *Feedback with Ira Madison III*, Hall candidly discussed the unbelievable scenarios that soap operas often explore. “It’s just, you know, it’s a thing we get to do in daytime. We get to be ridiculous and outrageous,” she remarked, highlighting the exaggerated nature of the genre. Given the show’s penchant for bringing characters back from the dead, Hall reflected on the unusual narrative liberties that are a hallmark of soap operas.

One particularly memorable storyline from 1982 captured the attention of fans in a way that few other plot twists have. Viewers were led to believe that Dr. Evans had met her demise at the hands of a notorious killer known as the Salem Strangler. This gripping plot twist sparked significant outrage among the show’s dedicated audience. Hall shared the tumultuous response, recounting, “On the day that my death scene aired, there was an outcry on the East Coast when it aired there.”

The fervour expressed by the fanbase was remarkable. Hall described an intense reaction, with viewers inundating the studio’s phone lines, unable to comprehend the shocking turn of events. “My producer came to the dressing room and said, ‘The East Coast let the West Coast fans know that they’ve killed you off and they’re beginning to form a picket line around the network,’” Hall recounted. This overwhelming backlash illustrated the profound connection that audiences have with the characters they adore.

The soap opera landscape is notorious for its melodramatic narratives and unrealistic scenarios, but it is precisely these elements that keep audiences engaged, as Hall pointed out. She acknowledged the sometimes “ridiculous” nature of the stories while also appreciating their capacity to evoke deep emotional responses and passionate fan loyalty.

Hall’s contribution to *Days of Our Lives* recently celebrated a significant milestone, marking her 50th anniversary with the show. During a celebratory appearance on *Today*, co-host Craig Melvin commended her for her remarkable ability to deliver dramatic moments, joking about her infamous slapping scenes. “Of all of the storylines that you’ve been a part of over the years, what I’ve always enjoyed is your ability to slap. You’re a great slapper,” Melvin remarked.

This humorous exchange was met with laughter from both Hall and the studio crew, who seemed equally entertained by the suggestion that an iconic slap might be on the cards for Melvin. “I would be privileged to slap you!” Hall replied cheerfully, maintaining the light-hearted spirit that often characterises her public persona.

As Hall looks back on her extensive career and the myriad of experiences she has had on the soap, it’s clear that the relationship between a character and the audience can be both powerful and complex. The outpouring of support from fans during her character’s various escapades illustrates this bond profoundly.

While Hall acknowledges the sometimes far-fetched storylines inherent to the genre, she appreciates the unique platform that soap operas provide. They allow for creative storytelling perhaps less commonly found in other television formats. Hall’s own journey as Marlena Evans is emblematic of this, filled with numerous reincarnations and character twists that add intrigue and excitement to the narrative.

Deidre Hall’s enduring legacy on *Days of Our Lives* serves as a testament to her talent and the artistry of soap operas, ensuring that audiences will continue to be entertained by the absurdities that the genre brings to life for many years to come.