Today in Soap Opera History (January 18)

1980: As the World Turns' Nick met Lisa.
1985: Santa Barbara's Peter kidnapped Eden.
1987: Brenda Dickson was honored.
2007: Guiding Light's Tammy and Jonathan were married.

"History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1937: Aunt Jenny's Real Life Stories premiered on CBS Radio. The popular radio soap opera ran until November 16, 1956.

1968: On Another World, Rachel (Robin Strasser) gave Ada (Constance Ford) some money and told her to take Mary (Virginia Dwyer) out to lunch instead of bringing her to their shabby apartment.

1973: On The Doctors, Martha Allen (Sally Gracie) visited her friend, Dr. Hank Iverson (Palmer Deane), at the hospital. Hank, working on the mobile unit, had been shot by a drug addict and was longing for his former love, a nurse turned chanteuse, Lauri James (Marie Thomas).

Today in Soap Opera History (January 18)

1980: As the World Turns' Nick met Lisa.
1985: Santa Barbara's Peter kidnapped Eden.
1987: Brenda Dickson was honored.
2007: Guiding Light's Tammy and Jonathan were married.

"Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."
― Machiavelli

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1937: Aunt Jenny's Real Life Stories premiered on CBS Radio. The popular radio soap opera ran until November 16, 1956.

1968: On Another World, Rachel (Robin Strasser) gave Ada (Constance Ford) some money and told her to take Mary (Virginia Dwyer) out to lunch instead of bringing her to their shabby apartment.

1973: On The Doctors, Martha Allen (Sally Gracie) visited her friend, Dr. Hank Iverson (Palmer Deane), at the hospital. Hank, working on the mobile unit, had been shot by a drug addict and was longing for his former love, a nurse turned chanteuse, Lauri James (Marie Thomas).

Joseph Mascolo's Final Episode Airs Today on 'Days of our Lives'

The character of Stefano DiMera returns to Days of our Lives on
February 9, the final appearance of the late Joe Mascolo.

Days of our Lives patriarch, Joseph Mascolo, returns to screens one last time as Stefano DiMera on Thursday, February 9.

In the episode, which Days has dedicated to their "beloved friend and colleague," Salemites confront Stefano about his transgressions against each of them over the years. Mascolo will be in scenes with Galen Gering, Deidre Hall and Leann Hunley.

The episode was shot before Mascolo passed away on December 8.

Check out a special tribute video below featuring memories of Mascolo from many of his long-time cast mates.

Today in Soap Opera History (January 18)

1980: As the World Turns' Nick met Lisa. 1985: Santa Barbara's
Peter kidnapped Eden.  1987: Brenda Dickson won an award one
month after being fired from The Young and the Restless.
2007: Guiding Light's Tammy and Jonathan were married.

"More and more, I tend to read history. I often find it more up to date than the daily newspapers."
― Joe Murray

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1937: Aunt Jenny's Real Life Stories premiered on CBS Radio. The popular radio soap opera ran until November 16, 1956.

1968: On Another World, Rachel (Robin Strasser) gave Ada (Constance Ford) some money and told her to take Mary (Virginia Dwyer) out to lunch instead of bringing her to their shabby apartment.

1973: On The Doctors, Martha Allen (Sally Gracie) visited her friend, Dr. Hank Iverson (Palmer Deane), at the hospital. Hank, working on the mobile unit, had been shot by a drug addict and was longing for his former love, a nurse turned chanteuse, Lauri James (Marie Thomas).

In Memoriam: Remembering Those We Lost in 2016 (Updated)

As 2016 comes to a close, we want to pay special tribute to those who passed away this year from the world of soap operas, including beloved creators, writers, performers and executives. Watch our tribute below.

'Days of our Lives' Executive Producer Ken Corday Releases Statement on Passing of Joseph Mascolo

It's a sad day for fans of legendary actor Joseph Mascolo, who played Stefano DiMera for decades on NBC soap opera Days of our Lives, as news of his death was released to the public.

The show's executive producer has released a statement on Mr. Mascolo's passing. Read it below.

"It is with great sorrow that we share the news of the passing of our dear friend and beloved member of the Days of our Lives family, Joseph Mascolo. The smile on Joe's face is something we’d all come to find comfort in, and he will be sorely missed. His larger than life presence, kind heart, and unwavering positivity has impacted us all for decades, and will live on in the memories of his many fans. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time."

Joseph Mascolo Dead at 87

Joseph Mascolo, an actor most well-known for his portrayal of the evil villain Stefano DiMera on NBC’s daytime drama “Days of our Lives,” passed away on Wednesday, December 8, 2016. He had battled Alzheimer’s disease for many years.

Like Stefano, Joseph Mascolo was somewhat of a Phoenix as well. He’s had the good fortune to have been successful in two very competitive fields, first as a musician and then as an actor.

Born and raised in West Hartford, Connecticut, Mascolo attended both the University of Miami and West Point Academy. From his early years, Mascolo seemed headed for a brilliant career as a classical musician. Through his teen years he played in various local bands and studied with some of the finest musicians in the country. He earned a scholarship to attend the University of Miami and became a candidate for a Fulbright Scholarship to study orchestral conducting, but there was a snag: His dream was to submerge himself in the study of opera in Italy and the available position was in Germany.

Although he had never considered acting, a drama coach at the University heard his hearty Basso voice, and suggested that he give theatre a try. Ultimately, he passed on the Fulbright and began his path into an acting career. His drama professor recommended him to Stella Adler, who for decades was regarded as America's foremost acting teacher, and she quickly took him under her wing. Of all the ways an actor supports himself while studying theatre and auditioning in New York City, Mascolo's way is probably among the most unique. He took a coveted seat as a concert clarinetist with the orchestras of the Metropolitan Opera and Paul Lavalle, thrilled to have the opportunity to enjoy his musical career as he studied for his future career in acting.

His first acting “gig” was in an off-Broadway production of The Threepenny Opera, followed by an appearance in A View from the Bridge, where he succeeded Robert Duvall as Eddie Carbone and joined an ensemble including co-star Jon Voight and assistant director Dustin Hoffman.

Today in Soap Opera History (January 18)

1980: As the World Turns' Nick met Lisa. 1985: Santa Barbara's
Peter kidnapped Eden.  1987: Brenda Dickson won an award one
month after being fired from The Young and the Restless.
2007: Guiding Light's Tammy and Jonathan were married.

"The present contains nothing more than the past, and what is found in the effect is already in the cause."
― Henri Louis Bergson

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1937: Aunt Jenny's Real Life Stories premiered on CBS Radio. The popular radio soap opera ran until November 16, 1956.

1968: On Another World, Rachel (Robin Strasser) gave Ada (Constance Ford) some money and told her to take Mary (Virginia Dwyer) out to lunch instead of bringing her to their shabby apartment.

1980: On General Hospital, Luke Spencer (Anthony Geary) acted out when he became jealous while watching Laura (Genie Francis) and Scott (Kin Shriner) dancing.

'Days of our Lives' 50th Anniversary: A Look Back at the Villains (Video)

Joseph Mascolo as Stephano DiMera

NBC.com is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Days of our Lives with a weekly look back at the show using various themes. This week, they focus on villains.

The new clip looks back at some of the highlights from the show's most memorable baddies over the years including Stefano DiMera (played by Joseph Mascolo), Ernesto Toscano (Charles Cioffi), Vivian Alamain (Louise Sorel), Ava Vitali (Tamara Braun) and Kristen DiMera (Eileen Davidson).

Watch the video below which includes Carly Manning (Crystal Chappell) being buried alive, EJ DiMera (James Scott) firing shots in Stefano's direction, and Hope Brady's (Kristian Alfonso) memorable 1990 "death" scene.

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (July 27-31, 2015)

Ben proposes to Abigail.

Check out the day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of July 27th.

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, July 27
Eric (Greg Vaughan) comes to a realization about his feelings for Nicole(Arianne Zucker); Serena (Melissa Archer) chooses to get revenge; Paige (True O'Brien) opens up to J.J. (Casey Moss); Sonny (Freddie Smith) is happy to see Will (Guy Wilson) making an effort with Paul (Christopher Sean).

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (July 20-24, 2015)

Daniel proposes to Nicole.

Check out the day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of July 20th.

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, July 20
Someone learns Abigail's (Kate Mansi) secret; Will (Guy Wilson) makes an unexpected move; Rafe (Galen Gering) and Hope (Kristian Alfonso) continue to look for information on Clyde (James Read); Kate (Lauren Koslow) offers Justin (Wally Kurth) support.

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (July 13-17, 2015)

Abigail asks Kayla to run a paternity test so she can eliminate one of the
two possible fathers of her baby.

Check out the day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of July 13th.

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, July 13
Abigail (Kate Mansi) reacts to the news that she's pregnant; Nicole (Arianne Zucker) confronts Serena (Melissa Archer); Daniel (Shawn Christian) is suspicious of Victor's (John Aniston) knowledge; J.J. (Casey Moss) sees Kyle (Michael Cardelle) hitting on Paige (True O'Brien).

Note: Starting July 13, Days of our Lives swaps time slots with The Meredith Vieira Show on Washington D.C.'s Channel 4, airing an hour later at 1 p.m.

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (July 6-10, 2015)

Stefano confers with Victor about their mutual problem - Clyde.
Photo Credit: NBC

Check out the day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of July 6th.

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, July 6
Nicole's (Arianne Zucker) encounter with Xander (Paul Telfer) shakes her; Eric (Greg Vaughan) has a request for Serena (Melissa Archer); Hope (Kristian Alfonso) and Rafe (Galen Gering) start to work out what happened between Victor (John Aniston) and Clyde (James Read); Paige (True O'Brien) makes trouble for J.J. (Casey Moss).

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (June 29-July 3, 2015)

JJ receives a surprising offer from Bev's friend Kyle.

Check out the day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of June 29. Salem is full of troubled relationships.

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, June 29
Paul (Christopher Sean) gets reacquainted with Derrick (Spencer Neville); Sonny (Freddie Smith) learns Will (Guy Wilson) has been keeping another secret; Brady issues Victor and ultimatum; Eric (Greg Vaughan) and Nicole (Arianne Zucker) consider telling Daniel the truth.

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (June 22-26, 2015)

Eric and Nicole bond as they face certain death.

Check out the day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of June 22nd. Will former lovers be reunited in death?

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, June 22
Xander (Paul Telfer) leads Eric (Greg Vaughan) and Nicole (Arianne Zucker) down an unexpected path; Abigail (Kate Mansi) wants to move forward with Ben (Robert Scott Wilson); J.J. (Casey Moss) and Paige (True O'Brien) continue to butt heads; Theresa (Jen Lilley) receives an offer from Brady (Eric Martsolf).

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (June 15-19, 2015)

Nicole finds herself in a dangerous situation.

Check out the day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of June 15th. Will Nicole become Xander's next victim?

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, June 15
Nicole (Arianne Zucker) faces danger; Eric (Greg Vaughan) uncovers the whole truth about Serena (Melissa Archer); Serena prepares to leave Salem; Theresa (Jen Lilley) is stunned when Brady (Eric Martsolf) lays down the law regarding their future interactions.

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (June 8-12, 2015)

Will and Sonny try to set aside their problems at Arianna's birthday party.

Check out the day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of June 8th.

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, June 8
Abigail (Kate Mansi) and Chad (Billy Flynn) get intimate; Clyde (James Read) warns Ben (Robert Scott Wilson) about Chad; Eric (Greg Vaughan) demands Serena (Melissa Archer) tell him the truth; fearing she's in danger, Nicole (Arianne Zucker) is tempted to come clean with Daniel (Shawn Christian).

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (June 1-5, 2015)

Eve and Jennifer get into a heated argument, which turns physical.

Check out the day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of June 1st.

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, June 1
Melanie's (Molly Burnett) sacrifice stuns Brady (Eric Martsolf); Eve (Kassie DePaiva) and Jennifer's (Melissa Reeves) argument turns physical; While trying to work on their marriage, Will (Guy Wilson) asks Sonny (Freddie Smith) a tough question; Marlena (Deidre Hall) gives Paul (Christopher Sean) some friendly advice.

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (May 25-29, 2015)

Melanie gives Brady an answer to his proposal.

Check out day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of May 25th.

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day)
Days is pre-empted for NBC coverage of the 2015 French Open tennis tournament.

Tuesday, May 26
Theresa (Jen Lilley) realizes she has an opportunity to come between Melanie (Molly Burnett) and Brady (Eric Martsolf); Melanie answers Brady; Ben (Robert Scott Wilson) talks to Abigail (Kate Mansi) about Chad (Billy Flynn); Rafe (Galen Gerin) and Chad want to get a look at Will's (Guy Wilson) research on Clyde (James Read).

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers (May 18-22, 2015)

Eve and Paige have a major confrontation.

Check out day-to-day spoilers and a sneak peek video below to find out what's happening on Days of our Lives during the week of May 18th.

[SPOILER ALERT]

Monday, May 18
J.J. (Casey Moss) plans a trap for Eve (Kassie DePaiva); Paige (True O'Brien) talks to Cole (Riley Bodenstab) about the framing of J.J.; Nicole (Arianne Zucker) starts to piece together Serena's (Melissa Archer) secret; a surprising sight greets Will (Guy Wilson) at home.