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Susan Lucci Praises Current Soap Stars

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/12/susan-lucci-praises-current-soap-stars.html
  Published in House and Home on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 9:00 GMT by Parade
      Locales: New York, California, UNITED STATES

LOS ANGELES, CA - February 12th, 2026 - Susan Lucci, a name synonymous with daytime television and the enduring power of soap operas, recently expressed enthusiastic praise for the current generation of soap stars. Speaking at the National Soap Opera Historical Society's 30th-anniversary event this past Saturday, Lucci, best known for her iconic 34-year portrayal of Erica Kane on General Hospital, lauded the talent and adaptability of today's actors, signaling a hopeful outlook for the genre's future.

In an interview with People magazine, Lucci described the current cast members as "just wonderful," emphasizing their acting prowess and their ability to navigate increasingly complex storylines. This isn't simply nostalgic sentimentality; it's a considered observation from someone who dedicated decades to mastering the unique demands of daytime drama. Lucci's career began in 1978, and she witnessed firsthand the evolution of the format - from the relatively simple narratives of the early years to the sprawling, interconnected sagas seen today. The ability of the new generation to "handle it so gracefully," as she stated, is a testament to their skill and dedication.

But what accounts for this perceived "raising of the bar"? Several factors are at play. The modern soap opera landscape is far more competitive than it once was. Viewers have an unprecedented number of entertainment options available at their fingertips, demanding higher production values and more compelling narratives to maintain their attention. This pressure has, in turn, forced writers and actors to up their game. The days of relying solely on melodramatic tropes are largely gone. Contemporary soaps increasingly tackle relevant social issues, feature diverse characters, and embrace narrative complexities reminiscent of primetime dramas.

The storylines themselves have undergone a significant transformation. While romance, betrayal, and family drama remain central themes, modern soaps aren't afraid to explore issues like addiction, mental health, political intrigue, and corporate espionage with a degree of nuance previously uncommon in the genre. This necessitates actors capable of delivering emotionally resonant performances that capture the complexities of these challenging subjects. Actors like Kelly Thiebaud (General Hospital), Finola Hughes (General Hospital), and Alison Sweeney (Days of Our Lives) exemplify this, consistently delivering performances that are both captivating and emotionally truthful.

Lucci's continued support of the National Soap Opera Historical Society underscores her deep connection to the genre's history and her commitment to preserving its legacy. Founded three decades ago, the society plays a crucial role in archiving scripts, costumes, photographs, and other memorabilia, ensuring that the stories and personalities that defined an era are not forgotten. This preservation effort is vital, not only for fans but for understanding the cultural impact of soap operas, which have often served as a mirror reflecting societal changes and attitudes. The organization actively works to educate new generations about the historical significance of the medium.

While Lucci is renowned for her work on General Hospital, she has continued to expand her acting repertoire since leaving the show in 2019. She currently stars in the Lifetime series Devious Maids, demonstrating her versatility and willingness to take on new challenges. This ongoing activity highlights a career that refuses to be defined solely by one role, showcasing her lasting appeal and dedication to the craft.

The continued success of soaps in the face of evolving entertainment consumption habits is a noteworthy achievement. While ratings aren't what they once were, programs like General Hospital, Days of Our Lives, The Young and the Restless, and The Bold and the Beautiful maintain a loyal fanbase and continue to attract new viewers through streaming platforms and social media engagement. Lucci's optimistic outlook suggests a belief that this momentum will continue, driven by the talent and passion of the current generation of soap stars and a dedicated audience eager to connect with compelling stories.