Kelly and Mark’s undeniable on-and-off screen chemistry on All My Children has long been a topic of fascination for fans. Casting director Judy Blye Wilson shed light on the couple’s origins, revealing that Mark was not initially favored by network executives. It was Kelly’s support that ultimately swayed the decision, significantly impacting both their lives.
“I brought Kelly into my office,” Judy recalled. “I showed her a black and white picture of him and his headshot, and she really liked him, really… I don’t know why they were dragging their heels on it, but they actually had him play the role. So, he started playing the role, and I had to continue to search for another person… Finally, I begged the producer, and she relinquished, and it turned out to be the best, one of the best parts I ever cast.”
Hayley and Mateo’s on-screen romance captivated All My Children viewers from 1995 until Kelly and Mark’s departure from the show in 2002. The couple’s real-life elopement in 1996 was seamlessly integrated into their characters’ storylines, culminating in an on-screen wedding in 2000.
Judy’s intuition about casting Mark proved to be spot-on, as Kelly and Mark went on to build a fulfilling life together. In addition to co-hosting Live with Kelly and Mark, the duo are proud parents to three children: Michael, Joaquin, and Lola.
The enduring success of their partnership serves as a testament to the power of authenticity and chemistry in both reel and real life.
