Article by: Rumer Certeza

Helen Wagner of 'As the world Turns,' fame dies at the age of 91.

Wagner, popularly known as mild-mannered Nancy Hughes on CBS sopa opera's 'As the World Turns' succumbed to presently unknown causes on Saturday, reports Teletext Media Inc., the show's New York-based production company.

She has portrayed the same character for more than a half-century, a huge milestone in the history of television.

The actress made her big debut on the CBS soap on the same date of its premiere, way back in April 2, 1956. Her first lines ever were: 'Good morning, dear.'

Wagner holds the Guiness World Record for playing the same character on television for the longest amount of time, according to Teletext Media.

Executive producer Christopher Goutman expresses deep sorrow over the loss, and says that all of them on the show are deeply saddened by Helen's passing.

'She is loved by generations of fans, and while we will miss her greatly Helen will always remain in the heart and soul of 'As the World Turns,' shares the producer.

Noone would ever step up to replace Wagner in the longest role played on television, and has gone through generations of writers. 'It had been fun to keep the character true to herself, no matter who is writing it at the moment,' she quoted in 1998.

In 2002, Wagner earned herself a plaque on the Buddy Holly Walk of fame in her hometown, and in 2004 was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

Prior to her big break on the record breaking TV soap, she made appearances on early television shows such as 'The Philco Television Playhouse' and a series entitled 'The World of Mr. Sweeney.'

Wagner was born in 1918, and pursued studies in drama and music at Monmouth College in Illinois, where she graduated in 1938. She was also responsible for helping the college raise funds to build na new theatre.

Robert Willey, Wagner's hubby and producer, had over the years served as the actress' agent and manager since they married back in 1954.

A job well done, Helen Wagner.