Ruth Martin will make her annual appearance this month - but the actress playing Ruth isn't likely to be the one fans expect.
Former Miss America Lee Meriwether, who played Ruth from July 1996 through 1999, makes a one-day appearance on December 24th. It is unclear why Mary Fickett, the actress who is best-known as Ruth, will not be playing the part.
Fickett left All My Children in 1996 after having been with the show since its inception in 1970. The actress had cited a desire to have more time for herself and her family as the reason for backing off of her work responsibilities. Fickett did, however, return in 2000 for several appearances.
Meriwether's exit from All My Children in 1999 was shrouded in controversy. The actress was at the end of her contract with the show, but two agents representing the actress had a difference of opinion about how she should continue with the show. In the end, Meriwether ended up the loser as the show decided to write her off the canvas.
An AMC spokesperson declined to comment if Ruth will be making more frequent appearances on the show.
