On November 29, 2023, respected actor Wayne Northrop passed away at the age of 77. Northrop, best known for his roles in “Days of Our Lives” and “Dynasty,” died in Los Angeles, California at the Motion Picture & Television Fund’s Woodland Hills home. His death followed a six-year battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, as revealed by his wife, actress Lynn Herring Northrop.
Northrop was born on April 12, 1947 in Sumner, Washington. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Washington before pursuing an acting career in Los Angeles.
His role as Detective Roman Brady on the NBC soap opera “Days of Our Lives” brought him into the limelight. Northrop portrayed this character from 1981 to 1984 and reprised the role from 1991 to 1994. His on-screen romance with Marlena Evans, played by Deidre Hall, was a central plotline that gripped viewers. He returned to the show in 2005 as Dr. Alex North, an amnesia specialist, and stayed until 2006.
Northrop further demonstrated his acting range by appearing as Michael Culhane, the chauffeur to oil magnate Blake Carrington, in the ABC series “Dynasty.” His stint on the show started in its debut season in 1981 and he made a comeback in Season 7. His television credentials also feature roles in “Port Charles”, “The Waltons”, “Baretta”, “L.A. Law”, “Hotel”, and “Cold Case.”
Off-screen, Northrop led a fulfilling life with his wife, Lynn Herring, who is famous for her role as Lucy Coe on “General Hospital.” The couple wed on May 9, 1981, and have two sons, Hank and Grady. They also owned and managed a working cattle ranch in Raymond, California, for more than three decades, aligning their ranching practices with their commitment to environmental conservation.
Herring praised the Motion Picture and Television Home for the exceptional care they provided during Northrop’s final years. She fondly remembered him as a devoted husband, a loving father, a committed rancher with a deep affection for his cattle, and a loyal friend to many. His dedication to the environment, demonstrated through his ranching practices, was a testament to his passion for nature and sustainability.
Northrop is survived by his wife, Lynn; their sons, Hank and Grady; and his stepmother, Janet Northrop. His passing has prompted a wave of tributes from fans and peers alike, all acknowledging his significant contributions to television and his compelling on-screen charisma.