Few television performances have left as profound an impact as Sela Ward’s portrayal of Lily Manning in Once and Again (1999-2002). Created by Marshall Herskovitz and Edward Zwick, the series redefined mature storytelling, tackling themes of love, divorce, second chances, and the complexities of blended families.

At the heart of the show was Ward’s exceptional performance, which seamlessly blended vulnerability, strength, and emotional complexity. Her portrayal resonated deeply with audiences, earning her both a Primetime Emmy Award and a Golden Globe Award, cementing her legacy as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.

Lily Manning: A Character That Defined a Generation

Lily Manning wasn’t just a protagonist—she was a mirror reflecting the real-life struggles of millions of people. A divorced mother of two, Lily faced the challenges of co-parenting, rediscovering love, and redefining her identity outside of marriage.

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Once and again (Lily et Rick Sammler)

Her relationship with Rick Sammler (played by Billy Campbell), a divorced architect with children of his own, was central to the series. Their love story was refreshingly authentic, capturing the raw reality of blending families, rebuilding trust, and embracing emotional vulnerability. Unlike many TV romances that rely on over-the-top drama, Lily and Rick’s relationship felt real, filled with both struggles and triumphs.

Ward’s portrayal elevated Lily beyond a typical TV character. She infused her with emotional depth, portraying a woman torn between her past and future. Lily grappled with personal insecurities while striving to make the best choices for her children. This authenticity made her one of the most relatable and compelling female leads in television history.

A Performance That Won Over Critics and Fans

Sela Ward’s performance in Once and Again was nothing short of a masterclass in acting. Her ability to transition between moments of quiet strength and raw vulnerability made Lily Manning unforgettable. She wasn’t just playing a role—she was bringing an entire emotional journey to life.

Her outstanding performance earned her:

• Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (2000)
• Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Drama (2001)

These accolades weren’t just recognition of her talent—they were a testament to how much she had elevated the series. Without Ward’s nuanced performance, Once and Again might not have resonated as deeply with audiences or critics.

Breaking New Ground in Television

Unlike many dramas of its era, Once and Again took an introspective, emotionally raw approach to storytelling. It wasn’t just another family drama—it was an exploration of what it means to start over, heal from past wounds, and navigate the uncertainties of love and family.

The series tackled themes rarely explored with such depth on network television, including:

• The emotional impact of divorce and co-parenting
• The struggles of blended families
• Teen angst and parental relationships
• The psychological scars of past relationships
• Finding love and trust again in adulthood

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Sela Ward Recounts Her Time as a UA student

Ward’s performance was central to the show’s ability to portray these themes with authenticity and grace. Her chemistry with Billy Campbell made their on-screen relationship feel natural, while her interactions with her on-screen children added another layer of realism to the family dynamic.

Why “Once and Again” Still Matters

Even years after its finale, Once and Again remains one of television’s most well-crafted and emotionally resonant dramas. The series may not have had the mass-market appeal of some of its contemporaries, but it developed a loyal following and remains beloved by those who appreciate deep, character-driven storytelling.

Ward’s portrayal of Lily Manning continues to stand as a testament to the power of strong, well-developed female leads in television. Her performance reminded audiences that great storytelling isn’t about spectacle—it’s about emotional depth, authenticity, and human connection.

The Lasting Legacy of Sela Ward’s Performance

For those who watched Once and Again, the series was more than just a TV show—it was an experience. It offered a deeply relatable look at the struggles of real life, from navigating blended families to dealing with the emotional baggage of past relationships.

Sela Ward’s performance remains an inspiring example of what television can achieve when character development and storytelling take center stage. Even in today’s fast-paced, content-saturated world, Once and Again serves as a timeless reminder of the emotional impact great television can have.

If you haven’t revisited Once and Again recently—or if you’ve never experienced it at all—now is the perfect time to discover why Sela Ward’s portrayal of Lily Manning remains one of the most unforgettable performances in TV history.