The TV Watercooler

DAYS’ Alice Horton passes away

Everyone should hug their grandmothers a little closer this weekend. Daytime’s favourite “Grams”, Frances Reid (Days of our Lives’ Alice Horton) passed away on Wednesday. She was 95.

Reid had played the popular role since the soap’s debut in November 1965 and her last on-screen appearance was on Dec 26th, 2007, though she has been mentioned on occasion since.

The soap icon previously appeared on Portia Faces Life, As The World Turns and The Edge of Night before becoming the heart and soul of Days of our Lives. Interestingly Reid had originally turned down the role and did not portray Alice in the pilot.

Many fans have already begun speculating when Alice Horton’s passing will occur on the show and are hoping for some big name returns, including Melissa Reeves as Jennifer Rose Horton. Fans can check out this impressive tribute, compiled by uber-fan Jason47 here. The tribute consists of classic photos and clips, including Reid’s final appearance.

NBC released the following statement:

“NBC is deeply saddened by the passing of Frances Reid. She was a true icon of the daytime genre and while we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her long life and the tremendous talent she shared with her generations of fans, she will be sorely missed.”

Reid’s former cast members have released the following statements:


Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe):
“Rest in peaces Fances Reid (Alice Horton). She was a great lady whom I feel honored to have known..the heart and soul of Days of our Lives.” via Twitter

Darin Brooks (ex-Max): “The soap world lost a really lovely and talented actress today…Frances Reid, you will be thoroughly missed…my prayers go out to your family!” via Facebook

Molly Burnett (Melanie): “To the family and friends and loves ones of Frances Reid. My thoughts and prayers are with you :(” via Twitter

Crystal Chappell (Carly): “Rest in peace Frances Reid (Alice Horton). Frances Reid was one of the most lovely souls I ever met, but with a smart, kick butt spirit! Glad I got to know her. via Twitter

Shawn Christian (Daniel): “Rest in peace Frances Reid. Condolences to your loved ones. Your stories and your spirit live in the hearts of those you have touched.” via Twitter

Deidre Hall (ex-Marlena): “Greg Meng called me this morning to tell me of the loss of our darling Frances Reid. She was loved, revered, and will be remembered.” via Twitter

Bill Hayes (Doug): “Frances Reid was simply the BEST! In 1970, when I joined the cast of DAYS, she was at the height of her acting prowess. She worked every day. She frequently drove the scenes, scenes that were deep with emotion. She so well understood what the story (or scene) was about and portrayed Alice Horton with such clarity that the viewers automatically knew what she knew. That is why, all these years later, the viewers feel she’s a part of their own family. Frances opened the window to Alice’s soul. For me, the word “genius” is not strong enough to describe how she could accomplish this day after day. What’s more, she was a team player, helping others in her direct, witty way. For the first dozen years I was on the show, it was Frances Reid who threw the Christmas party for the cast to gather and be a real family. She was a gem. I shall sorely miss her.” Exclusively to We Love Soaps

Rachel Melvin (ex-Chelsea): “Rip Frances Reid, she was a wonderful woman. Please say a prayer.” via Twitter

Patsy Pease (ex-Kimberly): “Frances was such a spark of spunk and talent on any set. Because of her encouragement (early in my career at “Days”),  I felt supported by a fellow “thespian”. She was a connoisseur of fine acting and cherished her craft. I am a better actor for having worked with Frances Reid. Thank you Frances, R.I.P. I love you.” Exclusively to We Love Soaps

Alison Sweeney (Sami): “I’m so sad to hear the news about Frances Reid. She was a truly talented actress & and we are all lucky & proud to have known her. RIP” via Twitter

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