×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

'Days of Our Lives' Villain Stefano DiMera (Joseph Mascolo) dies at 87

Joseph Mascolo, best known for playing the villainous role of Stefano DiMera on NBC's Days of Our Lives, died Thursday after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 87.

“Joseph was a big ‘ol bear with a puppy dog heart,” said Patricia Schultz-Mascolo, Joseph’s wife of 11 years, in a statement. “I’m so blessed to have had these many years with him. I will miss him every day.”

Mascolo joined the Days cast in 1982 and made crime lord/business tycoon Stefano DiMera into one of the most hated (and most loved) bad guys in soap-opera history.

tvline.com said Mascolo left and returned to the role of Stefano several times over the years, even joining CBS’ The Bold and the Beautiful for an extended stint from 2001 to 2006. But he always came back to Days, most recently for the character’s death earlier this year.

“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. 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,” Days executive producer Ken Corday said in a statement.

He also made appearances on TV shows like All in the Family, Where the Heart Is, From These Roots, General Hospital, Lou Grant and in films like Jaws 2 and Sharky’s Machine.

Mascolo has a street in Ocilla, Georgia named after him in honor of his efforts to build a group home for mentally and emotionally impaired citizens. He also was involved in fundraising for non-profit New Horizons, which provides guidance, counseling and careers for adults with developmental disabilities.

Mascolo is survived by his wife Patricia, his son Peter, his step-daughter Laura, his sister Marie and her husband Ronald LaVoie, along with five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, one niece, one nephew, 3 great nieces, one great nephew and one great-great niece.

 

Download our App
Download our Apple AppDownload our Android App

 

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.