Helen Gallagher, a popular soap star and two-time Tony Award winner, died at the age of 98 on Sunday in Manhattan. Edith Meeks, the director of the Herbert Berghof Studio, where Gallagher taught, confirmed her passing.
Broadway’s Playbill paid tribute, writing, “We are saddened to report that two-time Tony winner Helen Gallagher has died at the age of 98.” We extend our sympathies to her family, friends, and admirers.
Gallagher earned her first Tony in 1952 for Pal Joey and her second in 1971 for No, No, Nanette, which also garnered a Drama Desk Award. Her Broadway career included leading roles in Hazel Flagg (1953) and appearances in The Pajama Game, Mame, and Sweet Charity (earning another Tony nomination). Her final Broadway role was in 70, Girls, 70 in 2000.
On television, Gallagher starred as Maeve Ryan on ABC’s Ryan’s Hope (1975–1989), winning three Daytime Emmys. She praised the show for its strong writing and realism, calling it “the best written soap ever.” She also appeared in All My Children, One Life to Live, Law & Order, and The Cosby Mysteries.
Her film credits included Strangers When We Meet (1960) and Roseland (1977). Later in life, Gallagher taught at the Herbert Berghof Studio, leaving a lasting legacy in both theater and education.
