Susan Lucci’s journey to fame wasn’t paved with privilege. Raised by working-class parents—a nurse and a construction contractor—she excelled in school and as a cheerleader before pursuing drama at Marymount College. Despite being a finalist in the Miss Universe pageant, she followed her father’s advice to focus on education, a decision that shaped her future. Lucci held a deep admiration for her late father, honoring his World War II service and life lessons through heartfelt social media tributes. Her life included significant personal challenges, including multiple miscarriages, her husband’s battle with cancer, and her father’s passing. She candidly shared these struggles in her 2011 memoir All My Life, giving fans a rare, honest view beyond her glamorous image.

Health struggles added to her challenges. In 2019, Lucci underwent emergency heart surgery due to a 90% blocked artery. A second procedure followed in 2022. She has since used her platform to raise awareness about heart disease in women, encouraging others to pay attention to their symptoms. She credited her late husband, Helmut Huber, for insisting she seek medical help.

In 2022, Lucci faced another loss when Helmut, her husband of over 50 years, passed away. Referring to him as the “love of my life,” she admitted she wasn’t ready to date again but found comfort in fan support and cherished memories.