A formidable member of the soap opera community and a small screen legend has died.

Joseph Mascolo, known best for his roles as Massimo Marone on The Bold and the Beautiful and Stefano DiMera, a major villain, on Days of Our Lives, passed away at the age of 87 on Friday, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Days Executive Producer Ken Cordray confirmed the news in a statement.

"It is with great sorrow that we share the news of the passing of our dear friend and beloved member of the Days of our Lives family, Joseph Mascolo. The smile on Joe's face is something we'd all come to find comfort in, and he will be sorely missed. His larger than life presence, kind heart, and unwavering positivity has impacted us all for decades, and will live on in the memories of his many fans. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time," he said.

Mascolo originated the role of Stefano DiMera on the soap back in 1981, leaving in 2001 to pursue other roles, which included his one on B&B. He returned five years later, and remained in the role until earlier this year, when his health forced him to bow out of the show. His character was killed off when Hope (Kristian Alfonso) sought revenge for Bo's death and was led to believe that Stefano had orchestrated the kidnapping that left her husband's brain tumor untreated for so long.

His fellow cast members, both past and more present, have all taken to social media to share their sadness over the news of his passing.

Tags
Days Of Our Lives, Nbc, Soap Operas