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Deidre Hall's 50-Year Soap Slap: Still Hitting High Notes
19 Jun
Summary
- Deidre Hall celebrates 50 years playing Dr. Marlena Evans.
- She recreates a playful slap moment with Craig Melvin.
- Hall considers Ryan Gosling her acting inspiration a major honor.
Deidre Hall is celebrating a monumental 50-year tenure on the iconic soap opera, Days of Our Lives, where she originated the role of Dr. Marlena Evans. Appearing on the Today show to mark this significant milestone, Hall engaged in a lighthearted moment with host Craig Melvin.
Melvin playfully requested to be 'slapped' on-air by Hall, who obliged with a carefully executed maneuver that left the anchor feigning dramatic pain, eliciting laughter and applause from the studio. This segment highlighted Hall's enduring presence and skill on the show.
Hall reflected on her nearly five-decade journey, revealing she initially hesitated to accept the role, fearing it was a fallback option. She expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity and her sustained presence in Salem.
Furthermore, Hall reacted with surprise and humility to recent praise from actor Ryan Gosling, who cited her as his foundational acting inspiration. Gosling's defense of soap opera actors' demanding craft resonated deeply with Hall.
Despite the half-century mark, Hall indicated no intention of departing from Days of Our Lives, emphasizing her profound connection to the show and its cast, whom she considers family. She remains committed to her role.
