Watch As The World Turns
- TV-14
- 1956
- 55 Seasons
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6.2 (2,314)
As The World Turns was a long-running daytime soap opera that aired on CBS from April 2, 1956 until September 17, 2010. It was one of the most beloved shows of its time, and followed the lives of the residents of the small Midwestern town of Oakdale. The show began with the Hughes family, who were the focal point of the series in its early years. Patriarch Dr. Chris Hughes (Don MacLaughlin) was a pillar of the community and a respected physician. His wife, Nancy (Helen Wagner), was a devoted mother and homemaker. Their children, Bob (Don Hastings) and Penny (Rosemary Prinz), were both adults with their own issues.
As The World Turns was known for its many love triangles and complicated relationships. One of the most notable was between Chris, Nancy, and her sister, Kim (Kathryn Hays). Chris and Kim had been engaged before he met and married Nancy, and their feelings for each other never completely went away.
Over the years, more families were introduced, including the wealthy and influential Stewarts, the working-class Snyders, and the eccentric Hoppers. These characters brought with them their own sets of drama and conflict, as they navigated personal and professional challenges.
One of the most memorable storylines involved the complicated relationship between Luke Snyder (Van Hansis), the son of Holden (Jon Hensley) and Lily (Martha Byrne), and Noah Mayer (Jake Silbermann). Luke struggled with his sexuality and ultimately came out as gay, which was groundbreaking for daytime television. The storyline was praised for its sensitivity and for raising awareness of LGBTQ+ issues.
Another memorable storyline involved the twisted relationship between Rosanna Cabot (Cady McClain) and her abusive ex-husband, Craig Montgomery (Scott Bryce). Rosanna struggled to free herself from Craig's grip and found herself in danger more than once.
As The World Turns also had its share of light-hearted moments, including the comedic antics of Brad Snyder (Austin Peck) and Katie Peretti (Terri Colombino), who were often involved in schemes and misadventures.
Through it all, the show remained a fixture in daytime television, spanning over five decades and winning numerous awards. Its talented cast, which included Trent Dawson, Mick Hazen, Gregg Marx, Hillary B. Smith, and Julianne Moore, brought the characters to life and made them feel like a part of viewers' families.
In its final episode, As The World Turns wrapped up many of its storylines and bid farewell to its loyal audience. The show left a lasting legacy in daytime television and will always be remembered as a classic in the genre.