Days of Our Lives fans know Richard Wharton as the eccentric Dr. Wilhelm Rolf, but his journey to Salem has been nothing short of fascinating. From Chicago’s theater scene to Hollywood soundstages, Wharton’s career proves his deep love for storytelling both on and off-screen.
From the Classroom to Center Stage
Wharton’s acting story began unexpectedly during his school years. What started as a simple hobby quickly grew into a lifelong passion. He recalls being cast in a school play almost by accident, but that single opportunity sparked something powerful within him.
By college, he planned to major in accounting, but the stage called louder than any numbers ever could. Wharton eventually told his parents he was choosing theater over business—and he’s never looked back. That bold choice marked the beginning of a rewarding artistic career.
Days of Our Lives: Chicago Theatre Days and a Leap to Los Angeles
Before Days of Our Lives, Wharton built his foundation on Chicago’s bustling theater circuit. For nearly two decades, he performed across stages, balancing acting with tech and event work to sustain his passion. His life in Chicago was steady, but love—and new ambitions—eventually brought him west.
Wharton’s move to Los Angeles in 1998 marked the start of his television and film journey. The actor admits he misses the close-knit rhythm of stage work, but Days of Our Lives has helped fill that void. “Doing 60 episodes over four years,” he said, “felt more like theater than TV.”
Soap Beginnings: From Genoa City to Salem
Wharton first stepped into the world of soaps through The Young and the Restless. His brief role as a pawnbroker left a mark, giving him firsthand experience of the genre’s fast-paced filming style. Later, during the pandemic, he auditioned for Days of Our Lives—and the rest is history.
He laughs when recalling how he discovered he was replacing William Utay as Dr. Rolf. “I had no idea who Dr. Rolf was,” he admitted. Yet, his performance quickly earned fans’ approval. Four years later, Wharton remains the brainy villain fans can’t get enough of.
Days of Our Lives: Playing the Eccentric Dr. Rolf
Dr. Rolf’s legacy spans decades, and Wharton respects that history deeply. He credits the late Drake Hogestyn for filling him in on Rolf’s past. “He was an encyclopedia of Days,” Wharton shared. “He told me everything about the character’s wild journey.”
Balancing the character’s scientific obsession and unpredictable personality, Wharton finds joy in portraying such an eccentric role. “Rolf can be excitable, intense, and larger than life,” he explained. “That’s what makes him so fun to play.”
Life Beyond Acting
Outside the studio, Wharton lives a grounded life. He helps his wife with her art consulting business, handling installations and bookkeeping. His off-screen interests include golf and hiking, often spending weekends exploring Griffith Park with fellow actor Tony Amendola.
Despite his extensive resume, Wharton remains humble. “I haven’t set my sights on anyone in particular,” he said. “I just keep pursuing whatever I can.” He hopes to one day join a fantasy or sci-fi project—perhaps even something set in a galaxy far, far away.
Days of Our Lives: A Career Full of Passion and Purpose
From Bulgarian castles to Salem laboratories, Richard Wharton’s journey has been colorful and rewarding. His mix of artistry, humility, and dedication shines through in every performance. Fans can expect to see more of his layered portrayal of Dr. Rolf as Days of Our Lives continues its legacy of drama and intrigue. Wharton’s story reminds us that sometimes, the most extraordinary roles come when we least expect them.
Richard Wharton’s Days of Our Lives journey is a true example of passion meeting opportunity. From stage lights to soap sets, his love for storytelling continues to thrive. Stay tuned for more on your favorite Salem stars, only on Soap Opera Daily.