Actor Joseph Mascolo, best known to soap opera fans as the villainous Stefano DiMera on Days Of Our Lives off and on since 1982, died Thursday after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 87 years old.
After Mascolo joined the cast, his portrayal of crime boss-slash-business tycoon DiMera quickly became one of the most loved and hated bad guys, first on Days, then across all of television soaps.
Over the years, he left the cast several times, and appeared in a number of other series, including General Hospital and The Bold and the Beautiful, before returning to Days of Our Lives one final time last summer for DiMera's death.
Days executive producer Ken Corday released a statement Friday afternoon.
“It is with great sorrow that I’m sharing the news of the passing of our dear friend and beloved member of the Days of Our Lives family, Joseph Mascolo,” Days executive producer Ken Corday said in a statement released Friday. “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.”
Mascolo was originally from Hartford, Ct., and had initially wanted to be a classical musician before stepping out into the acting realm. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Schultz-Mascolo, one son, a step-daughter, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
PHOTOS | Those we've lost in 2016
