Days of Our Lives Stars Honor ‘Unsung’ Industry Hero After Death

Daytime television lost one of its notable figures as Maria O’Brien, known for serving as an acting coach on soap operas such as Days of Our Lives, Sunset Beach, and Passions, passed away at the age of 75 on February 24, 2026. Several of her colleagues from Days of Our Lives shared tributes on social media following the news. In addition to her work as an acting coach, Maria also appeared as an actress in shows including Ave 43, Matlock, and Protocol.

Days of Our Lives actors pay tribute to Maria O’Brien after her death

After the passing of Maria O’Brien, who served as an acting coach on Days of Our Lives, stars from the show came forward to pay tribute to her.

Robert Scott Wilson, who plays Alex on DoOL, posted a message for O’Brien on his Instagram Stories. “Maria, your soul and unrelenting passion for the craft will never be forgotten. Years ago your words found a spot on my brain and burned in and I am forever grateful,” he wrote, “From all of us you have helped navigate, we thank you and love you. R.I.P.”

Daytime Emmy winner Eric Martsolf, who played Ethan on Passions and Brady on Days of Our Lives, also shared a tribute to Maria on his Instagram Story. “Maria was an unsung hero in our industry. Since Passions she aided the actors through the roughest of dialogue challenges and made it all make sense. She shed light wherever she was. R.I.P. my friend,” he wrote.

Casey Moss, who plays JJ in the show, wrote, Maria, thank you for everything, I learned so much from you. My entrance into the world of storytelling was scary but you were one of the few that made it safe. I’ll always be grateful for the time we spent together. You will be missed. Go play with the greats. R.I.P.”

True O’Brien played Paige on Days of Our Lives. He wrote, “My dear Maria, we not only share a passion for the art of acting but also a last name. Your smile was contagious, your passion intoxicating and your walk iconic. Thank you for all the sessions we had together and for your undying commitment and love for the craft of acting. Thank you for your support and beautiful spirit. May you fly with the angels today and forever more.”

Maria O’Brien remains a notable figure in the daytime television industry.