Martha Byrne is leaving! (Soaps.com)
Executive Producer Christopher Goutman told Soaps.com, “We made Martha an incredibly generous offer in hopes that she would
remain a valuable member of the As The World Turns cast. Unfortunately, Martha has decided to leave, despite our best efforts to keep her.”
It has been reported in other publications Martha's requests included storyline approval, a stipulation that very few daytime stars actually have. Rumors are also abounding that the role of Lily will be recast soon after Martha leaves the show.
Martha hugging Jon Hensley, Holden (Soaps.com)
This is Martha's second stint on the sudser. She took over the role of Lily Walsh Snyder in 1983 as a teenager and briefly left in 1989 to pursue other acting projects in Los Angeles. Martha returned to the role in 1993 and hasn't left since. Two other actresses (Lucy Deakins, 1984-1985, and Heather Rattray, 1986-1993) have played the part of Lily.
Martha is married to police officer Michael Macmahon. In addition to her role on ATWT she is an accomplished singer and has released two CD's. She has performed on the show in the past.
Soaps.com wishes Martha well. We will miss seeing you regularly on the show!
