Eileen Fulton Dead at 91: Soap Opera Icon Behind As the World Turns’ Lisa Miller Passes Away

Eileen Fulton, the legendary actress who captivated millions as Lisa Miller on As the World Turns, has died at the age of 91. Fulton's portrayal of one of television’s most iconic villains left an indelible mark on daytime drama, transforming the role of women on the small screen and shaping the soap opera genre for decades. Her death, confirmed on July 14, 2025, in her hometown of Asheville, North Carolina, has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow actors, and television historians who credit her with redefining the boundaries of female characters on television.

A Trailblazer in Daytime Television

When Eileen Fulton first appeared on As the World Turns in 1960, few could have predicted the cultural phenomenon her character Lisa Miller would become. What began as a supporting role soon evolved into one of the most dynamic and controversial characters in daytime television history. Lisa was cunning, manipulative, and fiercely independent at a time when most female characters were passive and predictable. Fulton turned the archetype on its head, becoming the first true soap opera vixen.

Lisa's complex personality and dramatic storylines quickly captured the imagination of audiences. Whether she was seducing, scheming, or showing rare moments of vulnerability, Lisa was always compelling. Thanks to Fulton's talent and presence, the character became a staple of As the World Turns for five decades. She remained with the show until its cancellation in 2010, appearing in over 5,000 episodes.

Eileen Fulton's Life Beyond the Screen

Born Margaret Elizabeth McLarty on September 13, 1933, in Asheville, North Carolina, Eileen Fulton was destined for the spotlight. She trained in New York under renowned acting coaches like Sanford Meisner and Lee Strasberg and brought a methodical yet magnetic presence to her performances. Before and during her soap opera career, she also appeared on Broadway and in various television guest roles.

Outside of acting, Fulton was a singer, author, and performer. She published multiple books, including memoirs and mystery novels, and headlined cabaret acts in New York and across the country. Her range and creative energy went far beyond the television studio.

The Cultural Impact of Lisa Miller

Lisa Miller was not just a character—she was a television milestone. Through Fulton’s performance, Lisa became a reflection of changing societal attitudes toward women, ambition, and morality. She was among the first soap opera characters to show that women could be more than just romantic interests or moral compasses. Lisa was flawed, powerful, and endlessly fascinating.

Her influence extended beyond As the World Turns. Lisa’s popularity helped shape the format of soap operas in the 1970s and 1980s, paving the way for similar characters in both daytime and primetime television. Fulton's character also inspired multiple spin-offs and was even the subject of a Time magazine article during her peak popularity in the 1960s.

Recognitions and Career Highlights

Eileen Fulton's contributions did not go unnoticed. In 1998, she was inducted into the Soap Opera Hall of Fame. In 2004, she received the Daytime Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award, a fitting tribute to her pioneering work in the genre. Fans and critics alike have hailed her as a master of her craft, one who made bold choices and stuck to them with consistency and flair.

Her ability to navigate the evolution of television and storytelling over fifty years made her a fixture in the American entertainment landscape. She managed to keep her character relevant through generations of viewers, proving her unmatched adaptability and dedication.

Remembering Eileen Fulton

Eileen Fulton’s passing marks the end of a major chapter in television history. Funeral services are scheduled for August 9, 2025, in her hometown of Asheville. The soap opera community and fans from around the world are remembering her not only as Lisa Miller but also as a performer who gave her all to every role.

Her legacy lives on through reruns, archived performances, and the many actresses she inspired along the way. Fulton’s fearless approach to storytelling and her unmatched charisma on screen will continue to influence how complex female characters are portrayed in media.

A Lasting Legacy in Television History

Eileen Fulton was far more than just a soap opera star—she was a pioneer who helped shape the modern television landscape. Her portrayal of Lisa Miller on As the World Turns challenged expectations and became a cultural touchstone. Her death is a loss to fans of classic television, but her legacy remains a powerful example of how one actress can change the industry.

As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Fulton’s work touched generations of viewers. Whether you are a longtime fan or just discovering her impact, Eileen Fulton’s name will forever be associated with bold storytelling and unforgettable drama.

For those looking to revisit her legacy, many classic episodes of As the World Turns are available through streaming platforms and fan archives. Let her story continue to inspire, entertain, and inform the future of dramatic television.

Rest in peace, Eileen Fulton. Your world kept turning—and so will your memory.