Eileen Fulton, celebrated for her groundbreaking role as Lisa Grimaldi on the long-running soap opera As the World Turns, has passed away at the age of 91.
Fulton died on Monday, July 14, in Asheville, North Carolina, following a period of declining health, according to an obituary released by Groce Funeral Home.
Born and raised in North Carolina, Fulton studied drama and music at Greensboro College before moving to New York City in 1956 to pursue her acting career. Early in her career, she appeared in the 1960 film Girl of the Night, a stepping stone that led to her most iconic role that same year.
In 1960, Fulton was cast as Lisa Grimaldi on As the World Turns. Originally intended as a short-term character, Lisa became one of daytime television’s most enduring roles thanks to Fulton’s compelling portrayal. She brought the character to life for five decades until the show ended in 2010.
Beyond television, Fulton also showcased her talent on Broadway, including a notable role in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, and starred in the soap opera spin-off Our Private World. Her outstanding contributions to daytime television earned her a Soap Opera Digest Award in 1991 and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2004 Daytime Emmy Awards.
Eileen Fulton leaves behind a lasting legacy as a pioneer in soap opera history.
