Kathryn Hays: A Tribute To The Iconic Soap Opera Star And Her Legacy

Kathryn Hays, a beloved figure in the soap opera world, has sadly passed away at the age of 88. She was most famous for her portrayal of Kim Sullivan on the iconic show As the World Turns, where she captivated audiences for an impressive 38 years. Hays died on March 25 in Fairfield, Connecticut, as reported by TV Line.

Her co-star and on-screen husband, Don Hastings, who portrayed Bob Hughes, expressed his heartfelt condolences following her passing. He stated, “Our relationship as Bob and Kim was as close as Kathryn and my relationship, except we were not married. We were more like brother and sister and we were great friends.” Hastings fondly remembered their playful squabbles, saying, “Our biggest squabble was that she always wanted to rehearse and I wanted to take a nap.” This sentiment echoes the deep bond shared between the two actors, highlighting the profound loss felt by those who knew her.

In her remarkable career, Kathryn left an indelible mark not only on As the World Turns but also on various other television series and Broadway productions. Her contributions to the entertainment industry have earned her a place in the hearts of many, and her legacy will live on through her work and the memories she created with her fans and friends.

Biography

Explore more about this soap opera legend and her remarkable life journey, filled with numerous achievements and unforgettable performances.

Her Iconic Role on ‘As The World Turns’

Kathryn made her debut on As The World Turns in 1972, stepping into the shoes of Kim Sullivan. She continued to portray this character for an impressive 54 years until the show's conclusion in 2010. Reflecting on her career, she remarked, “I always say … it was the longest job I ever had.” This long-standing role not only showcased her talent but also solidified her place in television history, earning her a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2019.

Her Illinois Roots

Kathryn was born Kay Piper on July 26, 1933, in Princeton, Illinois, and later raised in Joliet. As a young woman, she pursued her passion for acting by enrolling at Northwestern University, where she honed her craft and prepared for her illustrious career.

Family Life and Marriages

Kathryn's personal life saw her marry three times. Her first husband was Sidney Steinberg, with whom she welcomed her only daughter, Sherri, in 1957. She was also married to Glenn Ford from 1966 to 1969 and to Wolf Lieshke from 1984 to 1986. Kathryn was a proud grandmother to three grandchildren: Kate, Cameron, and Garrett Wells, and a great-grandmother to Jack.

Achievements and Emmy Nomination

Throughout her career, Kathryn garnered critical acclaim, including a nomination for a Primetime Emmy Award for her guest role in an episode of Star Trek. In the episode titled “The Empath,” she portrayed Gem, a mute alien with the extraordinary ability to heal others with her touch, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Beyond ‘ATWT’: A Diverse Acting Career

Kathryn was not confined to daytime television; she appeared on various other series, including One Life to Live and Guiding Light. Additionally, she made memorable guest appearances in classic shows from the 1960s, such as Hawaiian Eye, Dr. Kildare, Route 66, Bonanza, and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. Her talent also extended to Broadway, where she performed in productions like The Irregular Verb to Love, Hot September, and Ladybug, Ladybug.

In remembrance of Kathryn Hays, we celebrate her contributions to the entertainment industry and the joy she brought to countless fans through her unforgettable performances.