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Susan Lucci: The Daytime TV Icon Worth Idolizing
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Susan Lucci, an American actress born on December 23, 1946, is best known for her iconic portrayal of Erica Kane on the ABC daytime drama "All My Children" from 1970 to 2011, a role that earned her the title "Daytime's Leading Lady" and made her one of the highest-paid actors in daytime television.
Early Life in Scarsdale, New York
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Susan Victoria Lucci was born on December 23, 1946, in Scarsdale, New York, to parents Victor Lucci, an Italian builder, and Jeanette, of Swedish descent
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. The family moved several times during Susan's early years, settling in Garden City, New York, when she was 5 years old1
. Growing up, Lucci developed a passion for performing arts, which would later shape her iconic career as an actress in daytime television2
. She graduated from Garden City High School in 1964 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in drama from Marymount College in 19683
. This early education laid the foundation for her future role as Erica Kane, a character known for her characteristic tantrums and complex personality on "All My Children"2
. Lucci's upbringing and education prepared her for the challenges of the entertainment industry, including the consecutive nominations she would later receive for her work in daytime television4
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Breakthrough: Erica Kane's Debut
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Susan Lucci's breakthrough came in 1970 when she was cast as Erica Kane on the new ABC daytime drama "All My Children".
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The role of Erica Kane, known for her characteristic tantrums and complex personality, quickly resonated with viewers and catapulted Lucci to stardom in daytime television.2
Her portrayal of the "fabulously flawed" character earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base, leading to 21 consecutive nominations for the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.1
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Beyond her soap opera success, Lucci expanded her career by appearing in television commercials and hosting shows like "Saturday Night Live", further solidifying her status as a versatile actress and television personality.3
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Susan Lucci (Photos)
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Susan Lucci's Filmography
Susan Lucci's career goes on for decades, with notable roles in both television and film. While she is best known for her iconic portrayal of Erica Kane in daytime television, Lucci has also appeared in various TV movies and series. Here's a selection of her work:
Throughout her career, Lucci received consecutive nominations for her role as Erica Kane. She also appeared in television commercials, further expanding her presence beyond daytime television.
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1970-2011 | All My Children | Erica Kane |
| 1984 | Invitation to Hell | Jessica Jones |
| 1990 | The Bride in Black | Rose D'Amore-Malloy |
| 1995 | Ebbie | Elizabeth "Ebbie" Scrooge |
| 2013-2016 | Devious Maids | Genevieve Delatour |
| 2015 | Joy | Danica |
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Susan Lucci's Awards and Honors
Susan Lucci's career in daytime television has earned her numerous accolades and honors over the years. Here's a summary of some of her most significant awards and recognitions:
Susan Lucci's 19 consecutive nominations for her portrayal of Erica Kane became legendary in daytime television history
| Year | Award | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1978-1998 | Daytime Emmy | Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series | Nominated (19 consecutive times) |
| 1999 | Daytime Emmy | Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series | Won |
| 1992 | Soap Opera Digest Award | Outstanding Lead Actress | Won |
| 1996 | TV Guide | 50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time | Ranked #37 |
| 2005 | Hollywood Walk of Fame | Star on the Walk of Fame | Honored |
| 2023 | Daytime Emmy | Lifetime Achievement Award | Won |
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. Her long-awaited win in 1999 was a momentous occasion, with presenter Shemar Moore famously announcing, "The streak is over!"1
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. Beyond her Emmy success, Lucci's contributions to television have been recognized with various honors, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a place among TV Guide's greatest TV stars4
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Susan Lucci's Interviews (Videos)
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Personal Life: Long-Lasting Love Story
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Susan Lucci's personal life has been as enduring as her iconic role of Erica Kane on daytime television. She married Austrian-born chef and food-service manager Helmut Huber on September 13, 1969, and their union lasted over 52 years until Huber's passing in 2022 at age 84
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. The couple had two children: actress Liza Huber and son Andreas Huber2
. Beyond her family life, Lucci has been an advocate for LGBT rights, inspired by a storyline on "All My Children" where Erica's daughter came out as lesbian2
. In 2011, she published her autobiography "All My Life: A Memoir"2
. Lucci has also faced health challenges, undergoing an emergency heart procedure in 2018 to place two arterial stents, which led her to become an ambassador for the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women movement3
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Closing Thoughts on Susan Lucci
Susan Lucci's career as an actress in daytime television is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and enduring appeal. Her portrayal of Erica Kane, a role synonymous with characteristic tantrums and complex emotions, captivated audiences for over four decades. Lucci's journey from consecutive nominations to finally winning the coveted Daytime Emmy exemplifies her dedication to her craft. Beyond her iconic role, Lucci expanded her repertoire through television commercials and other acting projects, solidifying her status as a versatile performer. Her personal life, including her long-lasting marriage to Helmut Huber, paralleled the stability of her professional career. Lucci's impact on daytime television extends far beyond her portrayal of Erica Kane, influencing the industry and inspiring future generations of actors. Her legacy as an actress, from her early days of consecutive nominations to her later accolades, cements her place as a true icon of daytime television.
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Related
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