Susan Lucci Remembers ‘Awkward’ Day Where She Auditioned a Potential Erica Kane Love Interest with a Bedroom Scene

**Susan Lucci Reflects on the Romantic Challenges of Playing Erica Kane in *All My Children***

Susan Lucci, the distinguished actress known for her long-running role as Erica Kane on the beloved soap opera *All My Children*, has offered a candid look at the complexities of performing intimate scenes with her character’s numerous romantic interests. During a recent episode of *The Social*, Lucci shared insights that shed light on the often unglamorous reality behind the scenes of television romance.

Having portrayed the iconic character from 1970 until the show concluded in 2013, the 79-year-old actress recounted the sometimes awkward nature of filming romantic encounters on set. When asked about the chemistry required for her character’s “sensual scenes,” she admitted that the process could be uncomfortable. “We had auditions to cast those romantic leads,” Lucci explained. “I remember one audition where they just put us right in bed together. I ended up kissing a complete stranger, and by the end of it, I thought we should at least know each other’s names. It was a bit awkward.”

This honesty about her experiences serves as a reminder that the portrayal of love and passion on screen can often be more complex than it appears. Despite the challenges, Lucci maintained a sense of humour about her situation. While she seamlessly transformed into the character, the reality of shooting intimate scenes could lead to real-life discomfort.

In an anniversary celebration for *All My Children*, hosted by Andy Cohen at New York City’s 92NY, Lucci was asked about Erica’s many husbands. When querying about her character’s favourite spouse, the actress joked, “So many men, so little time,” before acknowledging the wonderful cast of male actors she had the opportunity to work with over the years.

Among the numerous relationships her character experienced, Lucci noted that Erica’s mother, Mona, had a soft spot for her daughter’s third husband, Tom Cudahy. The character, played by Richard Shoberg, was a fan favourite, and their marriage in the early 1980s garnered significant attention, though it was annulled later on.

However, when it came to her own preferences, Lucci expressed a fondness for her character’s eighth and final husband, Jack Montgomery, portrayed by Walt Willey. The nuanced, tumultuous relationship between Erica and Jack, which began in the late 1980s, unfolded amidst a backdrop of marriages and affairs. Their romance was marked by the complications of Erica’s previous marriages, particularly to Jack’s brother, Travis.

Lucci elaborated on their connection, stating that Jack was an enduring presence in Erica’s life. “Jack Montgomery was the one who wouldn’t leave and couldn’t get out of her life,” she reflected. Their relationship was emblematic of the show’s ongoing themes of love and conflict, encompassing multiple breakups and reconciliations over the decades.

Their eventual marriage in 2005 came after years of drama, but it was short-lived as the couple divorced just two years later. Yet even in the series’ conclusion, Lucci’s character maintained affection for Jack, declaring her love for him in the final episode. This lingering emotion underscored the idea that, regardless of external circumstances, certain bonds persist throughout life’s complexities.

In sharing these reflections, Lucci not only provided a glimpse into her time on *All My Children* but also illustrated the emotional depth of the relationships she portrayed. The actress noted that Erica’s love life was fraught with challenges, but also rich with character development and storytelling.

Overall, Lucci’s insights serve to both humanise the beloved character of Erica Kane and highlight the unique pressures faced by performers in the world of daytime television. With a career that spans over five decades, Lucci continues to captivate audiences while reminding them of the intricacies of love—both on-screen and off.