General Hospital’s Van Hansis Shares Must-Hear Advice for Aspiring Actors

Van Hansis stated that he’s having fun playing Lucas on the show and up-and-coming actors should also enjoy their craft.

Van Hansis took over the role of General Hospital’s Lucas in October 2024 and has made the part his own. His character returned to Port Charles after living in Boston for several years and almost got back together with Brad, but then he discovered that his ex had blackmailed Portia. Brad has since left town, allowing Lucas to focus on moving forward with his life and pursuing a potential relationship with Marco. Hansis opened up about playing Lucas and gave tips for up-and-coming performers.

Having Fun

In an interview with Digital Journal, Hansis explained that each time he has scenes, there’s something new for Lucas to delve into. He loved that aspect of playing the legacy character. “Lucas is so ingrained in the show,” he stated, adding, “and he is basically related to everyone on that show. Being in the center of all that is really fun.”

Lucas has a complex past that goes back to when he was born, which poses some great challenges for the actor to honor that history. When asked what advice he had for new actors, he recommended not being so serious about everything and to “make sure that you are having fun.”

It’s a Tough Occupation

Hansis further explained that advancing one’s acting career doesn’t necessarily go in a straight line; it “has a lot of ups and downs.” He also referred to the profession as being “tough” because of that. He should know since he previously played Luke Snyder on As the World Turns from 2005 to 2010.“Also, don’t be afraid of being messy in your work,” he stated, clarifying that an actor’s work doesn’t need to be perfect all the time. He considered collaboration with castmates as a way to help bring balance. Building on that, he noted, “The more people bring themselves to it, that’s when the fun happens.”

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