Days of Our Lives icon Suzanne Rogers pledges to stay for the long haul

Days of Our Lives legend Suzanne Rogers is standing firm, making it clear she has no plans to step away anytime soon.

Following the show’s 60th anniversary celebration in November, the 82-year-old actress didn’t just attend; she reaffirmed her dedication to the role of Maggie Horton for the long haul.

She declared that she won’t leave the beloved soap until the studio “locks her out,” sending fans a reassuring message about her ongoing presence on screen.

Let’s break down everything Rogers shared at the milestone event and what her pledge means for the future of Days of Our Lives.

A Bold Declaration at 60 Years of Days

Suzanne Rogers is not going anywhere. The 82-year-old actress made that crystal clear at the Days of Our Lives 60th anniversary celebration. Her commitment to the show remains unwavering despite recent health challenges.

Speaking with People magazine at the November 8 celebration, Rogers addressed retirement rumors head-on. She acknowledged the possibility of leaving only if the show decided to write her off. However, she quickly added a defiant statement that left no room for doubt about her intentions.

Rogers declared, “If they say ‘bye,’ I’ll go – I had a good run.” But that scenario seems unlikely given her next statement. The actress firmly stated, “I’m not going until they lock me out.” Her determination reflects her deep connection to the character and the show itself.

This declaration comes after a summer filled with retirement speculation that concerned longtime fans. A spokesperson had already shut down those rumors in July by calling them completely false. Neither the character nor the actress would be going anywhere anytime soon.

Overcoming Cancer With Grace and Strength

Rogers faced a significant health battle over the summer that tested her resilience greatly. She was diagnosed with Stage II colorectal cancer after feeling something was not quite right. Her doctor ordered additional tests immediately.

The diagnosis came as a shock to the veteran actress who takes good care of herself daily. She underwent six weeks of daily chemotherapy and radiation treatments starting after filming wrapped June 13.

Rogers kept her diagnosis private during the show’s summer hiatus, which gave her healing time. She was able to keep it under wraps since the show took that break then. Only a few close co-stars knew about her battle.

The actress is now officially in remission and feeling much better than during her rough summer. She revealed at the anniversary celebration that she had cancer removed, along with radiation treatment completed. Her energy is at about 70 percent currently.

A Changed Perspective on Life and Work

The cancer battle fundamentally shifted how Rogers approaches daily life and what matters most to her. She said, “I don’t worry about the small things. It’s not worth it.” This new mindset reflects a deeper appreciation for the present.

Rogers credits her family and faith for helping her navigate the challenging summer months successfully. The day before starting treatment, she confided in her priest about her upcoming chemotherapy and radiation schedule. He blessed her on the altar.

Her sister checked in with her two or three times daily throughout the entire ordeal, constantly. Rogers also received tremendous support from her Days of Our Lives family once word spread around. Co-star Linsey Godfrey accompanied her to infusion appointments regularly.

Other castmates, including Mary Beth Evans, Stephen Nichols, Greg Rikaart, and AnnaLynne McCord, stayed in touch. The show’s producers told her to focus on her health and promised her role would wait. This support reinforced why she considers Days home.

Five Decades of Daytime Television History

Rogers made her Days of Our Lives debut on August 20, 1973, as farm girl Maggie Horton. The character was introduced as a guest role by scriptwriter William J. Bell and executive producer Corday.

The role was groundbreaking for its time, as Maggie was a young woman unable to walk then. Rogers had to use crutches rather than a wheelchair, which was ahead of its time completely. This was her first television assignment after Radio City Music Hall.

In 1979, Rogers made history by becoming the first Days cast member to win a Daytime Emmy Award. She received the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her brilliant portrayal. This achievement set the stage for a legendary career.

Rogers herself faced a major health challenge in 1984 when diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, a rare disorder. The disease affected her facial muscles, and the medication caused swelling and hair loss temporarily. She temporarily left the show for one year while recovering.

An Unbreakable Bond With Salem

Rogers describes Days of Our Lives as “my whole life and my home for a long time.” This sentiment goes beyond typical actor loyalty to a show or character they portray regularly. Over 52 years, the soundstage has become as familiar as her house.

She is now the longest-running actress in American soap opera history, playing the same character continuously. This distinction was recognized in 2024 when she was inducted into the Emmys Gold Circle honor.

Her dedication never wavered, even during the darkest times, including health crises and character deaths on screen. When Maggie was killed off in 2003 during the Salem Stalker storyline, Rogers made occasional spirit appearances.

The actress once lost out on a role with The Young and the Restless early in her career. That rejection led her straight to Days of Our Lives, where she found her true calling immediately. That disappointment became the greatest blessing of her professional life.

TL;DR

• Suzanne Rogers, 82, vows to stay on Days of Our Lives until they lock her out.
• Rogers is in remission after battling Stage II colorectal cancer over the summer.
• She underwent six weeks of daily chemotherapy and radiation, completing treatment in July.
• Rogers has played Maggie Horton Kiriakis for 52 years since August 1973.
• She is the longest-running actress in American soap opera history.
• Rogers won the first Daytime Emmy for Days of Our Lives in 1979.
• The show was renewed for two more seasons, guaranteeing her continued presence.

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This article was made with AI assistance and human editing.