At just 12 years old, Carolyn Hennesy auditioned for the iconic role of Becky Thatcher in the film adaptation of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Looking back, Carolyn chuckles as she recalls, “It was just plain awful.” Although she didn’t land the part—it went to a young Jodie Foster—the experience sparked a fierce determination within her to train harder and aim higher. “I’m the poster child for persistence,” she shares with Closer, reflecting on her journey.
Now 60, Carolyn is celebrated for her role as the sharp and formidable attorney Diane Miller on General Hospital. But her talents extend far beyond daytime drama. As a sought-after character actress, she’s made unforgettable appearances on shows like NCIS, Cougar Town, and Revenge. “I’ve done so many guest-star roles and other adventures,” she says, her enthusiasm evident. “I’m having the time of my life!”
When Did the Dream Begin?
So, when did you first realize you wanted to be an actor?
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“It all started when my mom brought my little brother and me to visit my dad at 20th Century Fox while he was working on Fantastic Voyage. Those massive, larger-than-life sets of the heart, lungs, and brain left me in awe. I remember thinking, ‘This is it! This is where I belong!’ Plus, there were free doughnuts! It was clear from the start that this world felt like home to me. Even now, whenever I step onto those historic soundstages, I’m hit with a familiar scent that instantly takes me back to being just 4 years old.”
Family Influence: Support and Lessons
Did Your Father Encourage You?
Your dad won an Oscar for visual effects on Fantastic Voyage. Did he support your dream of acting?
“I wish I could say yes, but honestly, he wasn’t overly supportive. However, he did impart some valuable life lessons. When I told him I wanted to be an actor, he said, ‘That’s fine, but never underestimate the crew. They’re the backbone of any production. Any one of them is worth a hundred actors. They’re better read, better educated, kinder, and more genuine than most actors you’ll meet. So, follow their example.’”
What About Your Mom?
How did your mom feel about your acting aspirations?
“She was practical, to say the least. She said, ‘I just want you to learn to type so you’ll have something to fall back on.’ And you know what? She was right. I did learn to type, but honestly, it’s not much of a backup plan for me. Typing is one thing, but I never really trained for anything else.”
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Advice from Aunt Barbara Rush
Did your actress aunt, Barbara Rush, offer any advice?
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“She gave me one piece of advice early on, and it stayed with me for years, though not always in a positive way. She said, ‘You only get one shot. If you don’t impress those casting directors, they’ll never see you again.’ At the time, I was young and impressionable, and those words were almost paralyzing. It took me a long time to realize that wasn’t true. Thankfully, I eventually shook off that mindset.”
The Big Break
What do you consider your big break?
“It wasn’t one single moment, but when I got the call to do two days on General Hospital, it set off a chain reaction that’s lasted 17 years and counting. It’s been an incredible ride!”
How Did This Role Impact Your Career?
How has your time on General Hospital opened doors for other roles?
“When you’re already a working actor, there’s a subtle confidence that sets in. You no longer approach auditions with that desperate, ‘Please hire me, I need to pay my mortgage’ energy. That financial cushion, though never guaranteed, helps you relax and perform better. It’s a game-changer in the best way possible.”
Memorable Moments on General Hospital
What are some of your favorite moments from General Hospital?
“There are so many! One that stands out is when Max loses the diamond ring he’s supposed to give to Carly. He’s on the floor trying to find it, and Diane thinks he’s proposing to her. It was hilarious! Another classic moment was when Alexis walks in on Max and Diane in a compromising position. And recently, Diane grilling Sonny on the stand—it was tough going up against someone I’ve admired for so long.”
Achievements and Reflections
Winning a Daytime Emmy
In 2017, you won a Daytime Emmy for your role in the web series The Bay. How did that affect your life?
“To be honest, it didn’t change much. I went right back to work on General Hospital the next day. It’s like, ‘Okay, I’ve got this cool paperweight now.’ It wasn’t a huge shift, but I can proudly say for the rest of my life that I’m an Emmy winner. No one can take that away from me.”
Pride in Her Journey
What are you most proud of?
“I’m proud of staying true to myself in this industry. I’m proud of the roles I’ve played and the contributions I’ve made. Above all, I’m grateful for everything. I’m also proud to be a loyal friend—it’s something I value deeply.”
Personal Reflections
Was It Worth the Sacrifices?
Did you have to make sacrifices to achieve this level of success?
“Not really. This is what I was meant to do. Acting is my passion, my purpose. I didn’t have maternal instincts, so not having children was never a sacrifice for me. I’ve experienced love—though I wouldn’t say I’ve excelled at it—but it’s been part of my journey.”
Advocacy and Giving Back
We know you’re passionate about animal advocacy. What can Closer readers do to help?
“If you’re in the LA area, consider donating to the Los Angeles Zoo. It’s not just a zoo—it’s a sanctuary for preservation and conservation. We lose 150 species every single day. Whether it’s tiny amoebas or majestic West African white rhinos, they’re
