Any casual soap fan is familiar with the ultimate supervillain Days of Our Lives' Stefano DiMera, portrayed by Joseph Mascolo.
After watching Stefano, a.k.a. "the Phoenix," rise from the ashes for decades, it's all the more painful to report that Mascolo passed away at 87-years-old on Thursday, Dec. 8 after years of battling Alzheimer's disease.
Soap Opera Digest has a statement from Days executive producer Ken Corday.
“It is with great sorrow that we share the news the news of the passing of our dear friend and beloved member of the Days of our Lives family, Joseph Mascolo,” said Executive Producer Ken Corday in a statement. “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.”
Read their full piece here.
Our condolences go out to his family, friends, and co-workers. R.I.P. Joseph and long live the DiMeras!