Top 32 Daytime Actresses, Ranked

27. Marcy Walker

Marcy Walker gained acclaim for her role as Eden Capwell on Santa Barbara, where her chemistry with A Martinez's Cruz Castillo became a centerpiece of the show. Walker's passionate portrayal earned her a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress. She also starred as Liza Colby on All My Children

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26. Heather Tom 

Heather Tom is one of daytime television's most honored actresses, with multiple Daytime Emmy Awards across all female acting categories. Known for her roles as Victoria Newman on The Young and the Restless and Katie Logan on  The Bold and the Beautiful, Tom brings depth and emotional resonance to her characters.

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25. Crystal Chappell 

Crystal Chappell is best known for her roles as Dr. Carly Manning on Days of Our Lives and Olivia Spencer on Guiding Light. Her portrayal of Olivia, especially during a groundbreaking same-sex romance storyline, earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. She created and starred in the Emmy-winning web series Venice: The Series.

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24. Laura Wright

Laura Wright has portrayed the resilient Carly Corinthos in General Hospital since 2005. Wright's performance has brought new dimensions to the character, earning her a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in 2011. She was previously known for her roles in Guiding Light and Loving 

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23. Tamara Braun 

Tamara Braun is celebrated for her dynamic roles in daytime television, notably as Carly Corinthos on General Hospital and as Ava Vitali on Days of Our Lives. Braun earned a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her role as Ava. Her return to General Hospital as Kim Nero showcased her versatility.

22. Maura West 

Maura West has captivated audiences with her roles as Carly Tenney on As the World Turns and Ava Jerome on General Hospital. Known for bringing nuance and depth to complex characters, West earned two Daytime Emmy Awards for As the World Turns and another for General Hospital.

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21. Susan Flannery 

Susan Flannery is renowned for her powerful portrayal of Stephanie Forrester on  The Bold and the Beautiful from 1987 to 2012. Flannery's depiction of the formidable matriarch brought depth and intensity to the series, exploring themes of family loyalty and personal struggle. Her extraordinary performance earned her three Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress.

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20. Nancy Lee Grahn 

Nancy Lee Grahn is best known for her role as savvy attorney Alexis Davis on General Hospital, a character she has portrayed since 1996. Grahn's intelligent and witty performance added layers of complexity to Alexis, tackling issues like ethical dilemmas and family dynamics. She previously won a Daytime Emmy Award for her role as Julia Wainwright Capwell on Santa Barbara

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19. Leslie Charleson 

Leslie Charleson is cherished for her long-standing role as Dr. Monica Quartermaine in General Hospital, which she has played since 1977. Charleson's portrayal of Monica—a dedicated physician facing personal and professional turmoil—has been integral to the show's fabric. Her nuanced performance has brought authenticity to stories of family conflict and resilience.

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18. Jeanne Cooper 

Jeanne Cooper was a legendary actress celebrated for her portrayal of Katherine Chancellor on The Young and the Restless from 1973 until her passing in 2013. Cooper's embodiment of Katherine—a strong, multifaceted matriarch—brought gravitas and depth to the show. Her illustrious career earned her a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress and a Lifetime Achievement Award.

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17. Michelle Stafford 

Michelle Stafford made a significant impact as Phyllis Summers on The Young and the Restless, a role she originated in 1994. Stafford's portrayal of Phyllis—a complex character oscillating between villain and heroine—has fascinated audiences. Her compelling performances earned her two Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress. She also took on the role of Nina Reeves in General Hospital.

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16. Mary Beth Evans 

Mary Beth Evans is best known for her role as Kayla Brady on Days of Our Lives, a character she has portrayed since 1986. Evans brought warmth and depth to Kayla, especially in her storied romance with Stephen Nichols' Steve "Patch" Johnson, making them one of daytime's most beloved couples. She has earned multiple Daytime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Lead Actress in 2016.

15. Jess Walton 

Jess Walton is renowned for her enduring role as Jill Abbott on The Young and the Restless, which she has played since 1987. Walton's portrayal of Jill—a character known for her ambition, resilience, and complicated relationships—has been central to many of the show's most compelling storylines. Her dynamic performance earned her a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in 1997.

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14. Kimberly McCullough 

Kimberly McCullough is celebrated for her role as Robin Scorpio on General Hospital, a character she began portraying at just seven years old in 1985. McCullough's authentic and heartfelt performance, particularly during groundbreaking HIV/AIDS storylines, brought critical acclaim and raised awareness of important social issues. Winning two Daytime Emmy Awards, she grew up on screen, demonstrating remarkable talent and maturity.

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13. Vanessa Marcil 

Vanessa Marcil gained fame as Brenda Barrett on General Hospital, captivating viewers with her passionate and spirited performance from 1992 onwards. Marcil's portrayal of Brenda, especially her dynamic with Maurice Benard's Sonny Corinthos, became one of the show's most iconic relationships. Her work earned her a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in 2003.

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12. Jane Elliot

Jane Elliot is best known for her portrayal of the sharp-tongued and formidable Tracy Quartermaine on General Hospital, a role she originated in 1978. Elliot's embodiment of Tracy—marked by wit, cunning, and vulnerability—has been pivotal to the show's success. Her exceptional performance earned her a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in 1981.

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11. Eileen Davidson 

Eileen Davidson is acclaimed for her versatile performances on both The Young and the Restless as Ashley Abbott and Days of Our Lives as multiple characters including Kristen DiMera and Susan Banks. Known for her exceptional ability to portray complex and diverse roles—even simultaneously—Davidson has captivated audiences with her depth and range. Her outstanding work earned her two Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress.

10. Kim Zimmer 

Kim Zimmer is best known for her dynamic portrayal of Reva Shayne on Guiding Light, a role she played from 1983 to 2009. Zimmer's passionate and fearless performance earned her four Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress. Reva's dramatic storylines—from amnesia to time travel—were brought to life through Zimmer's unwavering commitment and exceptional talent.

9. Jacklyn Zeman 

Jacklyn Zeman became a familiar face as Bobbie Spencer on General Hospital, a role she first took on in 1977. With a performance that spanned over four decades, Zeman skillfully navigated Bobbie's transformation from a misguided young woman to a respected nurse and matriarch. Her ability to imbue her character with warmth and complexity endeared her to audiences worldwide.

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8. Kristian Alfonso 

Kristian Alfonso has portrayed Hope Williams Brady on Days of Our Lives since 1983. As one half of the beloved super couple "Bo and Hope," Alfonso's character has been central to some of the show's most memorable adventures and romances. Her portrayal of Hope's strength and resilience has made her a steadfast favorite among fans.

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7. Debbi Morgan 

Debbi Morgan is renowned for her role as Dr. Angie Baxter Hubbard on  All My Children, a character she originated in 1982. Morgan made history as part of one of the first African-American super couples on daytime television. Her compelling portrayal earned her a Daytime Emmy Award in 1989, making her the first African-American actress to win in the Outstanding Supporting Actress category.

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6. Melody Thomas Scott 

Since 1979, Melody Thomas Scott has captivated audiences as Nikki Reed Newman on The Young and the Restless. Her character's journey from impoverished beginnings to a position of wealth and influence has been marked by Scott's powerful performances. Addressing issues like alcoholism and domestic abuse, she brings authenticity and compassion to her roles.

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5. Genie Francis 

Genie Francis rose to fame as Laura Spencer on General Hospital, beginning her tenure in 1977. Her portrayal of Laura, especially as part of the super couple Luke and Laura, became a cultural phenomenon. Francis's ability to convey deep emotion and relatability has solidified her status as one of daytime television's most cherished actresses.

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4. Alison Sweeney 

Alison Sweeney is beloved for her long-running role as Samantha "Sami" Brady on Days of Our Lives, starting in 1993 at age 16. Sweeney's dynamic portrayal of Sami—known for her scheming, vulnerability, and growth over the years—resonated with viewers. Beyond acting, she has found success as a television host and author.

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3. Judith Light 

Judith Light made a significant impact as Karen Wolek on One Life to Live from 1977 to 1983. Her groundbreaking performance, especially during a pivotal courtroom confession addressing complex social issues, earned her two consecutive Daytime Emmy Awards. Light's compelling portrayal showcased her remarkable acting range, paving the way for a successful career in primetime television and theater.

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2. Susan Lucci 

Susan Lucci gained legendary status for her role as Erica Kane on  All My Children, which she played from 1970 to 2011. Known as the "Queen of Daytime Television," Lucci's portrayal of the ambitious and controversial Erica captivated audiences for over four decades. Despite 19 Emmy nominations before her win in 1999, her persistence made her an icon.

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1. Deidre Hall 

Deidre Hall is best known for her portrayal of Dr. Marlena Evans on Days of Our Lives, a role she has embodied since 1976. Hall's performance as Marlena—a psychiatrist with a tumultuous life, including memorable storylines like demonic possession—has made her a daytime television icon. Her depth and nuance have earned her numerous awards and a dedicated fan base.