
Before her intense on-screen feud, General Hospital star Finola Hughes revealed she was overwhelmed with nerves. Discover what triggered her anxiety and how she powered through.
Why Finola Hughes Was Filled with Anxiety Before Her Major General Hospital Feud
Behind the fierce confidence of Anna Devane lies a much more vulnerable reality for the actress who plays her. Finola Hughes, one of General Hospital’s most iconic stars, recently opened up about the intense nerves she felt leading up to one of the show’s most talked-about feuds.
While fans watched the tension unfold on screen with bated breath, Hughes was dealing with her own emotional whirlwind behind the scenes.
Pressure Behind the Performance
As a veteran soap actress, Finola Hughes is no stranger to high-stakes drama. But even with decades of experience, the buildup to this particular storyline left her feeling like a “nervous wreck.” Why? Because the emotional complexity and the confrontational nature of the scenes demanded more than just memorizing lines — it required tapping into raw vulnerability and deeply layered emotions.
She confessed that portraying conflict with a fellow cast member she genuinely admires only added to the internal pressure. The fear of not doing the material justice or missing the emotional mark weighed heavily on her in the days leading up to filming.
Respect for the Craft — and Her Co-Stars
Part of what made the experience so overwhelming, Hughes explained, was her deep respect for the cast and writers. She wanted to ensure her performance elevated the entire storyline and resonated with viewers. The weight of those expectations pushed her to prepare relentlessly, rehearsing emotionally charged scenes while managing real anxiety.
In the end, her dedication paid off — the storyline became one of the most memorable arcs of the season, and her portrayal received high praise from fans and critics alike.
Fans Praise Her Honesty
Hughes’ openness about her behind-the-scenes nerves has struck a chord with fans. Many took to social media to applaud her vulnerability and professionalism, calling her candidness a refreshing reminder that even seasoned performers can struggle with self-doubt — and still deliver incredible performances.
A Powerful Reminder of the Human Side of Stardom
While Anna Devane may seem fearless on screen, Finola Hughes’ recent revelation reminds us that even soap icons face emotional hurdles. Her ability to channel anxiety into excellence is part of what makes her a beloved cornerstone of General Hospital — and an inspiration to actors and fans alike.