"Like sands through the hourglass, so are the 'Days of Our Lives.'" These words introduced a new half-hour daytime drama on November 8, 1965. NBC's 'Days of Our Lives' turns 35 this November. Having premiered as a half-hour drama and expanded to an hour 10 years later, the show remains a favorite among viewers of daytime television serials.

Over the last 34 years, 'Days of Our Lives' has been a trailblazer in daytime television, garnering numerous Emmy awards and nominations, as well as countless Soap Opera Digest Awards and People's Choice Awards. The show's success derives from its consistent commitment to excellence in writing and storytelling, supported by a diverse ensemble of performers.

The series has also made its mark in primetime. NBC has broadcast three 'Days' specials: 'One Stormy Night' on January 10, 1992; 'Night Sins' on February 26, 1993; and 'Winter Heat' on February 4, 1994. 'Days of Our Lives' is set in the fictitious Midwest town of Salem. The core families are the Hortons and the Bradys, and the multilayered storylines involve elements of romance, adventure, mystery, comedy and drama. Original cast members Frances Reid and John Clarke continue to star on the series as Alice and Mickey Horton.