Early Steps: From Albuquerque to Acting Stardom
Alexa Havins’ story might begin in Artesia, New Mexico, but her creative spark lit up long before she stepped in front of cameras. Raised in Chandler, Arizona, she was “deathly shy,” a trait that earned her the cute childhood nickname, “Ice Maiden”. Yet by age three, that shy girl was dancing—and by five, she was performing professionally with a jazz ensemble. That’s where creativity began to blossom naturally.
Her potential didn’t go unnoticed. Esteemed acting coach Jean Fowler discovered her and encouraged her to pursue acting at the prestigious Circle in the Square Theatre School in New York City. This was a decisive pivot: from stage to television, from dancing to nuanced acting, and from shy to shining. Later in Los Angeles, she continued training under mentor Brian Reise, who remains a close friend and guiding force.
These roots—early dance, rigorous training, and mentorship—are what support the depth and authenticity Alexa Havins brings to her roles. You can see the dramatic through line: every heartfelt moment on screen has a foundation in early discipline and artistic dedication.
Soap Galaxy: Babe Carey—Her Breakthrough Role
In two thousand three, Alexa Havins burst onto daytime television screens as Babe Carey Chandler in All My Children—a role that changed her life. Portraying Babe, a character with complexity (initially a “bad girl,” later a “flawed good girl”), launched her into the hearts of soap fans everywhere. She earned a Daytime Emmy nomination in two thousand five and even won the Soap Opera Digest Award for Outstanding Younger Leading Actress.
“Audiences fell in love with the chemistry,” she shared onscreen with Jacob Young’s JR Chandler—a pairing so memorable it made top-ten lists of soap couples. The scenes where Babe was emotionally vulnerable—like the heartbreaking river moment—highlighted the range Alexa Havins brought to the part.
After portraying Babe from two thousand three to two thousand seven (and briefly returning in two thousand eleven), she decided to step away to explore new projects, and Amanda Baker succeeded her in that role. While her time there ended, that role remains a pivotal highlight in her career trajectory.
Beyond Soaps: Diversifying Her Screen Presence
Alexa Havins didn’t settle for soap fame—she branched out across screens big and small. Early indie films had her in roles like Joe Millionaire, First Kiss, Joshua, Fat Girls, and Brooklyn Rules. She even appeared as a bride in 27 Dresses, and had roles in Old Dogs and Hancock.
On television, she guest-starred in critically acclaimed series: Rescue Me, Reno 911!, Secret Lives, CSI (Miami & NY), Grey’s Anatomy, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and Castle. One of her most notable dramatic roles was in Torchwood: Miracle Day, where she played Esther Drummond—a role that gave her a strong break into international sci-fi audiences.
Her screen versatility speaks volumes: from indie film roles to dynamic guest spots to sci-fi drama, she continues to reveal new shades of her craft. Her on-screen adaptability and range make her a standout performer in any genre.
Family Ties: A Life Beyond the Spotlight
Off-screen, Alexa Havins enjoys a grounded and joyful family life. She married her All My Children co-star, Justin Broening, on June 5, two thousand five—right after filming a proposal scene on set. That onscreen moment carried real-life significance: they married and soon relocated to Los Angeles together.
Their family grew: they have four children—three daughters and one son—with arrivals stretching from around two thousand ten onward. Despite work demands, she remains “extremely down-to-earth” and values time with family, friends, and even finds time for hip-hop dance classes and agency softball games.
That personal side—grounded, warm, family-centered—makes her work richer. The warmth you see on screen comes from real-life experiences and bonds, and that authenticity colors all her characters.
Return to Daytime Drama: Lulu Spencer on General Hospital
In a notable full-circle turn, Alexa Havins is returning to daytime television—this time as Lulu Spencer on General Hospital. In September twenty-twenty-four, it was announced she’d join the show as the long-comatose Lulu—daughter of iconic characters Luke and Laura.
She is set to debut in November twenty-twenty-four. Her coming role replaces Emme Rylan, who played Lulu from two thousand thirteen to 2020.
This return marks a poignant moment: she reprises a leading role in a soap, bringing full experience and emotional maturity to it. Fans are anticipating how her nuanced depth will explore Lulu’s awakening and re-emergence into Port Charles—rich with backstory and emotional resonance.
Quotes to Frame Her Essence
“I turned down a lot of things because there was nudity required.” – illustrating her grounded values entering acting.
“Babe can play trash with her eyes closed.” – betrothed of why casting saw her for that role—simple and striking.
Her quotes add personality—values, humor, and clarity—lighting up the reader’s connection to Alexa Havins as both actor and person.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who is Alexa Havins, and what is she known for?
A: Alexa Havins is an American actress known for originating the role of Babe Carey Chandler on All My Children, for which she earned a Daytime Emmy nomination. She later appeared on TV, film and joined the Torchwood ensemble.
Q: What acting training does she have?
A: She started as a dancer at age three, was discovered by coach Jean Fowler, studied at Circle in the Square Theatre School in New York, and trained further under Brian Reise in Los Angeles.
Q: What are some notable roles beyond soap operas?
A: She appeared in indie films like Fat Girls, Brooklyn Rules, and mainstream movies like 27 Dresses, Hancock, and Old Dogs. TV guest spots include Grey’s Anatomy, CSI, Castle, and she starred in Torchwood: Miracle Day.
Q: What about her personal life?
A: Married to co-star Justin Broening since 2005, they have four children. She balances acting with family life and down-to-earth passions like dance and recreation.
Q: What is her current role in daytime drama?
A: As of 2024, she portrays Lulu Spencer on General Hospital, replacing previous actress Emma Rylan and set to debut in November.
Final Thoughts
Alexa Havins is more than a soap star—she’s a multifaceted artist whose journey spans dance, daytime drama, indie films, sci-fi, and heartfelt family commitment. Her return to daytime as Lulu deepens a legacy already rich with emotion, skill, and authenticity. Here’s to following her journey with the same warmth, clarity, and expert curiosity she brings to every role.
