All My Children is developing story to introduce a new character to the canvas, tentatively named Annie McDermott.

In a casting breakdown for the role of Annie, the character is said to be a 28-year-old woman and is described as "beautiful, fun-loving and caught in the mess of her life." That mess, according to the script, is a dangerous and yet-unnamed husband. Annie has taken flight from her husband with a young daughter, Emma.

Actresses interested in the part are testing opposite Cameron Mathison (Ryan Lavery), prompting some fans to wonder if Annie will be a new love interest for Ryan. Ryan apparently takes Annie and her daughter in - and in return for a roof over their heads, Ryan presses the woman about her past.

From the time the casting call went out in April until early June, there was no word on which actresses had tested for the part. However, soap fans reading the soap news feature on TVGuide.com were buzzing about a mention that the role would be perfect for Port Charles alum Erin Hershey Presley. The mention was pure conjecture on the part of the columnist, but it didn't stop fans from daydreaming.

ABC has now confirmed that newcomer Melissa Claire Egan has bested all other actresses and landed the role of Annie. Egan has made guest appearances on The WB series One Tree Hill and Dawson's Creek.

Egan first airs on July 10th.

An ABC spokesperson had no comment.

What is your initial impression of AMC's new character, Annie?  The character sounds intriguing, but Ryan doesn't need her as a partner.   30%   I'd like a new love for Ryan, but must she be a damsel in distress?   25%   I like the idea that the writers are trying to find a new love for Ryan.   14%   Oh, c'mon! It is way too early to offer an opinion of this character.   14%   The fleeing an abusive husband storyline has been done way too many times.   8%   I like the idea, but I have to wait to see who's cast in the role.   5%   Other   3%     Poll Posted: May 22nd, 2006

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