Wayne Northrop, celebrated for his roles in Dynasty and Days of Our Lives, passed away at 77 after a six-year battle with Alzheimer’s. He died Friday at the Motion Picture and Television Home in Woodland Hills, California, his wife Lynn Herring Northrop confirmed.
“Wayne took his last breath in the arms of his family,” said Lynn, Wayne’s wife of 43 years. “We are grateful to the caring staff at the Motion Picture and Television Home.” She hailed him as “the best dad” to their two kids, Hank and Grady, as well as a friend to many who appreciated his sense of humor, intelligence, and love of ranching.
Born April 12, 1947, in Sumner, Washington, Northrop earned a degree from the University of Washington and later pursued acting in Los Angeles. He rose to fame as Detective Roman Brady on Days of Our Lives, playing the role in two stints from 1981–1984 and 1991–1994. He also appeared as Dr. Alex North on the show in 2005–2006.
Northrop’s other prominent roles included Michael Culhane on Dynasty (1981–1987) and Rex Stanton on Port Charles (1997–1998). He also appeared on L.A. Firefighters, Cold Case, and several TV movies.
He and Lynn, a Daytime Emmy-nominated actress well known for her role on General Hospital, shared a passion for conservation and owned a cow ranch in Raymond, California. They also repaired Raymond’s oldest house, which is now a museum and a designated historic site.
Northrop’s family remembers him for his love, humor, and legacy in Hollywood and beyond.
