Wayne Northrup, celebrated for his iconic portrayal of Roman Brady on the soap opera "Days of Our Lives," passed away on November 29 at the age of 77. Northrup succumbed to early-onset Alzheimer’s disease after a six-year battle, passing away at the Motion Picture and Television Woodland Hills Home, surrounded by his loving family.
Northrup’s wife, actress Lynn Herring Northrop, shared a heartfelt tribute, stating, “Wayne took his last breath in the arms of his family. We want to thank the amazing staff at the Motion Picture and Television Home for their compassionate care. Wayne was a loving husband, the best dad to our two boys, Hank and Grady, and a rancher who loved his cows. He touched so many with his humor and wit.” The couple celebrated 43 years of marriage, raising their family while managing a cattle ranch in Raymond, California.
Northrup became widely known for his role as Roman Brady, a tough yet kind-hearted detective on "Days of Our Lives," appearing from 1981-1984 and again from 1991-1994. His onscreen romance with Dr. Marlena Evans, played by Deidra Hall, remains one of daytime television's most enduring love stories. In 2005, Northrup returned to the show as Dr. Alex North, further cementing his legacy with another memorable character.
In addition to his role on "Days of Our Lives," Northrup portrayed Rex Stanton on "Port Charles" from 1997-2003, showcasing his range as a dynamic and manipulative character. His television career included roles in popular series such as "The Waltons," "Baretta," "Eight Is Enough," "The Young Riders," and "Testimony of Two Men," solidifying his status as a versatile and enduring actor.
Born on April 12, 1947, in Sumner, Washington, Northrup earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Washington and later pursued acting at Seattle Community College. He began his Hollywood career in 1975, landing his first television role on "Police Story." His early work with the Los Angeles Actors’ Theatre helped launch a career that spanned decades.
Beyond acting, Northrup and his wife were dedicated conservationists, running their cattle ranch with environmental principles. They also preserved local history by restoring an 1886 home, now a museum in Raymond, California. Northrup is survived by his wife Lynn, sons Hank and Grady, daughter-in-law Laura, and stepmother Janet.
His legacy as an actor and devoted family man continues to live on in the hearts of fans, family, and the Bloomfield community, where his impact and contributions will be remembered and cherished.
