Days of Our Lives needs no introductions when viewers are talking about beloved soaps. While that hourglass and theme promise a return to Salem, its way to our screens was not straightforward.

Before its NBC debut on November 8, 1965, Ted and Betty Corday rejected two themes from Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart. Historian Jason47 says the couple wanted something resembling “Sunrise, Sunset” from Fiddler on the Roof.

Instead, Hart found inspiration from a familiar place, an organ melody inspired by radio soaps his mother had enjoyed. Boyce offered suggestions, and by the third try, the opening fans recognize was ready to go.

Ranker places Days first on its crowd-voted list of the greatest daytime soap operas, a sign of affection, not proof that every episode is praiseworthy.

Indeed, some reviews showcase how complicated that affection can become.…