#5: Wayne Northrop as Roman Brady
When Wayne Northrop debuted as Roman Brady in 1981, Days of Our Lives gained one of its most compelling leading men. As Salem’s fearless ISA agent and devoted husband to Marlena Evans, Roman became the definition of a daytime hero—strong, loyal, and willing to risk everything for family and justice. Northrop’s intense, brooding energy made him an instant fan favorite, and his chemistry with Deidre Hall was undeniable.
Roman’s storylines were filled with espionage, action, and romance—he faced off against Stefano DiMera, survived countless near-death moments, and still made time to melt hearts. During the 1980s, Northrop’s Roman was the man of Salem: brave, selfless, and endlessly devoted.