Few television performances have left as lasting an impression as Sela Ward’s portrayal of Lily Manning in the critically acclaimed drama Once and Again (1999-2002). Created by Marshall Herskovitz and Edward Zwick, the series set a new benchmark for mature, emotionally charged storytelling by exploring themes of love, divorce, second chances, and the complexities of blended families.

At the heart of the series was Ward’s performance, which was nothing short of extraordinary. Her ability to embody vulnerability, resilience, and emotional complexity made Lily Manning one of the most compelling characters in television history. Her nuanced portrayal earned her widespread acclaim, culminating in both a Primetime Emmy Award and a Golden Globe Award, cementing her status as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.

The Character That Defined a Generation

Lily Manning was more than just a protagonist—she was a reflection of real-life struggles faced by millions. A divorced mother of two, Lily navigated the emotional landscape of co-parenting, rediscovering love, and redefining herself outside of marriage.

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Once and again (Lily et Rick Sammler)

Central to the show was her relationship with Rick Sammler (played by Billy Campbell), a divorced architect with children of his own. Their love story was refreshingly authentic, capturing the raw challenges and triumphs of blending families, rebuilding trust, and embracing vulnerability. It was this realism that resonated deeply with audiences and made the series stand out in a television landscape often dominated by formulaic dramas.

Ward’s performance elevated Lily beyond a typical TV character. She balanced emotional depth with authenticity, portraying a woman torn between her past and future, grappling with personal insecurities, and striving to do what was best for her children. The show’s writing allowed Ward to explore layers of emotion, and she delivered each scene with a level of depth that felt profoundly real.

A Performance That Won Over Critics and Fans

Sela Ward’s acting in Once and Again was nothing short of a masterclass in emotional storytelling. Her ability to seamlessly transition between moments of strength and vulnerability made Lily Manning unforgettable. This wasn’t just another TV drama—it was a deeply introspective look at relationships, self-discovery, and personal evolution.

Her performance didn’t just capture audiences; it also won the industry’s highest accolades, including:

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

These awards weren’t just acknowledgments of Ward’s talent—they were proof of how much she had elevated the series. Her portrayal of Lily Manning helped Once and Again become one of the most celebrated dramas of its era.

Breaking New Ground in Television

Unlike many other dramas of the late ‘90s and early 2000s, Once and Again took an introspective, emotionally raw approach to storytelling. It wasn’t just about romance or family drama; it was about the profound, often painful journey of starting over and redefining oneself. The series tackled themes that were rarely explored in such depth on network television, including:

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Sela Ward Recounts Her Time as a UA student

• The emotional toll of divorce and co-parenting
• Teen angst and family dynamics in blended households
• The lingering scars of past relationships
• Finding love and trust again in adulthood

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

The Lasting Impact of Once and Again

Even years after its finale, Once and Again remains one of television’s most well-crafted and emotionally resonant dramas. Sela 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 was a reminder that great storytelling isn’t just about spectacle—it’s about depth, authenticity, and connection.

For audiences who followed Lily’s journey, Once and Again was more than just a TV show; it was an experience. It offered a mirror into the struggles of real life—blended families, emotional baggage, and the pursuit of happiness despite life’s setbacks.

Sela Ward’s work in the series 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 that truly 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.