Wayne Northrop, the actor famous for originating the role of Roman Brady on Days of Our Lives, passed away on Friday, Nov. 29, at the age of 77.
Northrop died at the Motion Picture and Television Woodland Hills Home, as confirmed by his representative in a statement.
His wife, Lynn Herring Northrop, shared that Wayne had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease six years ago.
“He took his last breath in the arms of his family,” she said, expressing the family’s deep sorrow over his passing.
Lynn continued, “Wayne touched so many people with his sense of humor and wit. A husband for 43 years, the best dad ever to his two boys, Hank and Grady, and a rancher who loved his cows and was a friend to many.”
Throughout his life, Wayne was known for his warmth, kindness, and deep love for his family. He was a devoted husband and father, and his relationships with his family were central to his life.
In addition to his acting career, Wayne had a passion for ranching. He enjoyed working with his cows and living a life connected to the land, a hobby that gave him peace and joy outside of his public career.
Northrop’s impact on those around him extended far beyond his time on screen. His charisma, humor, and genuine personality left a lasting mark on everyone he met, whether it was fellow actors, friends, or fans.
As Roman Brady, Northrop became a beloved figure in the world of soap operas. He played the character of Roman Brady on Days of Our Lives, creating a legacy that continued even after he left the role. His portrayal was a major part of the show’s success and helped define its storyline during his time on the show.
Wayne’s death marks the end of an era for his fans and loved ones, but his memory will continue through the many lives he touched during his remarkable career and beyond.
Wayne Northrop first appeared on Days of Our Lives in 1981, taking on the role of Roman Brady, a detective and member of the Brady family. He portrayed Roman until 1984 and returned to the role between 1991 and 1994. During his time on the show, Northrop’s character developed a memorable romance with Marlena Evans, played by Deidre Hall, which became a central storyline for fans of the show.
Northrop attended Hall’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in May 2016. There, he posed for photos alongside Hall and Josh Taylor, who took over the role of Roman Brady in 1997. This reunion highlighted the lasting bond between the actors and their shared history on Days of Our Lives.
In addition to his work on Days of Our Lives, Northrop had a diverse acting career. He appeared in Dynasty as Michael Culhane, the Carrington family’s chauffeur. His role in Dynasty introduced him to a new audience and showcased his range as an actor.
Northrop also played Rex Stanton on Port Charles, where he worked alongside his wife, Lynn Herring, who portrayed Lucy Coe. The couple’s on-screen collaboration added a personal touch to their professional lives, and their chemistry was evident to viewers.
Beyond these notable roles, Northrop’s career included appearances on classic television shows such as The Waltons and Baretta. These roles further established his versatility and appeal as a television actor, earning him recognition across a variety of genres.
While acting was a significant part of Northrop’s life, he also had a deep love for ranching. He managed a cattle ranch in Raymond, California, which he worked on alongside his wife. The couple took great pride in maintaining and preserving the ranch, blending their passion for agriculture with their love for the land.
Northrop’s dedication to his ranch and his family life was a key part of his character off-screen. The ranch became an important part of his identity, providing him with a peaceful retreat away from the demands of Hollywood and allowing him to focus on something deeply personal.
In his later years, Northrop continued to enjoy his time on the ranch while cherishing his role as a husband and father. His life outside of acting was marked by a strong connection to nature and a commitment to family, which brought him fulfillment beyond his professional success.
Despite his battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Northrop’s love for his family, his passion for ranching, and his legacy in the entertainment industry remained central to who he was. He continued to inspire those around him with his humor, wit, and dedication to his craft.
Wayne Northrop’s passing marks the end of an era for his fans and colleagues. However, his legacy in both the entertainment industry and his personal life will live on through the many people he touched with his work, his kindness, and his unwavering love for his family.
