Deidre Hall's Shocking Gum-Spitting Scene: Why Her Co-Star Was Left in the Dark
Deidre Hall, the beloved actress who has graced the screen as Marlena Evans on “Days of Our Lives” for nearly five decades, recently revealed a surprising detail about a memorable and controversial scene. Back in 2011, Hall portrayed Hattie Adams, a mischievous and trash-talking look-alike of Marlena, and the scene involved spitting gum – a moment that left her co-star, Shawn Christian (Daniel Jonas), completely unaware.
Hall, who has embodied the iconic Marlena Evans since 1976, has become a fixture in daytime television. Her portrayal of Hattie Adams, a character known for her disruptive and often outrageous behavior, added another layer to her impressive acting career. However, the gum-spitting scene, intended to be a comedic moment, sparked considerable discussion and even criticism at the time.
During a recent podcast appearance, Hall explained that the decision to have Hattie spit gum wasn’t something she discussed with Christian beforehand. “You can’t predict her,” Hall chuckled, referring to the unpredictable nature of Hattie Adams. “It just happened. It wasn’t planned. I just did it.”
The scene itself involved Hattie Adams playfully teasing Daniel Jonas, and the gum-spitting was part of that playful antagonism. While some viewers found it amusing, others felt it was unprofessional or inappropriate for daytime television. The unexpected nature of the act, particularly for Christian, contributed to the scene's notoriety.
Hall’s candor about the incident highlights the sometimes-unpredictable nature of live television and the improvisational moments that can occur even in scripted shows. It also offers a glimpse into the dedication and versatility required of actors who play such diverse roles over extended periods.
“Days of Our Lives” continues to captivate audiences with its complex storylines and compelling characters. Deidre Hall’s enduring portrayal of Marlena Evans remains a cornerstone of the show's success, and moments like the infamous gum-spitting scene serve as reminders of the show’s long and storied history, filled with unexpected twists and turns. The incident has become a memorable footnote in the show's legacy, prompting reflection on the balance between comedic moments and maintaining a certain level of decorum in daytime drama.