Deidre Hall slaps 'Today' host on air to mark 50 years of 'Days of Our Lives'

Deidre Hall, the actress known for playing Dr. Marlena Evans on the long-running soap opera "Days of Our Lives," slapped "Today" show host Craig Melvin on live television during a segment celebrating the show's 50th anniversary. Melvin, 77-year-old Hall's fellow guest, asked her to deliver the slap after noting that on-screen slaps are a hallmark of her character. Hall agreed and described how the on-screen slaps are staged. After the slap, Melvin pretended to reel back in mock pain as the studio audience applauded and laughed. Hall is one of the original cast members of "Days of Our Lives," which premiered in 1965 and first aired her in 1976. During the interview, Hall said she had nearly turned down the role until her manager told her she was the producers' top choice. She also credited series producer Ken Corday and the writing team for sustaining the show across five decades. Hall added that she has no plans to retire as long as her studio pass remains valid.