On March 3, it was revealed that Maria O’Brien had passed away. The former Days of Our Lives acting coach and veteran actress died on February 24. She was 75 years old.
O’Brien was known for her work in films, including Smile in 1975 and Protocol in 1984, along with numerous television appearances throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Over the course of a remarkable six-decade career, she graced both the big and small screens.
A Career That Spanned Generations
Maria O’Brien began her career as an acting coach in the late 1990s when she was hired for soaps such as Sunset Beach and Passions. She later went on to hold a 15-year position as the acting coach on the beloved drama series Days of Our Lives until she retired in 2022.
Her influence behind the scenes was just as powerful as her work in front of the camera.
Throughout her acting career, O’Brien appeared in films such as The Incredible Shrinking Woman and Table for Five. She also made guest appearances on popular shows like Murder, She Wrote, Magnum P.I., The Love Boat, L.A. Law, and CHiPs, among others.
Born on August 14, 1950, in Los Angeles, Maria came from a family deeply rooted in Hollywood. Her father was Edmund O’Brien, and her mother was Olga San Juan, who was a musical comedy star who appeared in numerous films.
Outside of her acting and coaching career, O’Brien was also an advocate. She played an instrumental role in securing government funding for Alzheimer’s disease research, a cause that meant a great deal to her.
Heartfelt Tributes From the Days Family
Since news of her passing broke, many current and former Days of Our Lives stars have shared touching tributes.
True O’Brien, who played Paige Larson, wrote:
“RIP. My dear Maria, we shared not only 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.”
True’s real-life husband, Casey Moss, known to fans as JJ Deveraux, shared:
“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. RIP.”
Robert Scott Wilson, who plays Alex Kiriakis, posted:
“Maria. Your soul, energy 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. From all of us you have helped navigate, we thank you and love you. RIP.”
Alison Sweeney, beloved for her role as Sami Brady, also shared:
“This is so sad to hear. I loved working with Maria over the years. She was truly a gem. Prayers for all her friends and family.”
Maria O’Brien is survived by her three children, James Anderson, Danica Anderson, and Sean Anderson, as well as her sister Bridget O’Brien Adelman.
Soap Opera News sends our prayers and condolences to the family of Maria O’Brien during this incredibly difficult time.
Photo Credit: JPI Studios.
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