Van Hansis took over the role of Lucas Jones on October 4, 2024. Daytime fans will also remember him as one-half of As The World Turns‘ Luke Snyder, where he starred from 2005 until the finale in 2010. Scroll through to see five facts you may not have known about the actor.

What’s In A Name

Born in North Adams, Massachusetts, on September 25, Hansis (born Evan Vanfossen Hansis) discovered his love for performing early on. After moving to Greenfield in third grade, he began honing his craft at theater camp. He later attended Walnut Hill School for the Arts in Natick before continuing his training at Carnegie Mellon University. Upon graduating with a BA in acting from the School of Drama, Hansis officially launched his career under the professional name “Van Hansis.”

Emmy Moments

Hansis has earned multiple Daytime Emmy Award nominations throughout his career. For his role as Luke Snyder on ATWT, he was recognized three times—Outstanding Younger Actor in 2007 and 2008, and Outstanding Supporting Actor in 2009. His acclaimed work as Thom on the web series EastSiders also earned him nominations in 2016 and 2018, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and talented performer. As a matter of fact, Soap Hub just published an article about Hansis being one of the recasts to breathe new life into the character he is playing.

Playing It Proud

Lucas Jones and Luke Snyder are not the only gay characters that Hansis has played. His role as Thom in EastSiders also gave him the opportunity to tell meaningful stories within the LGBTQ+ community. In May 2014, Hansis himself publicly came out during an interview with EastSiders creator and co-star Kit Williamson for The Fight Magazine. His authenticity and openness have only deepened his connection with fans.

Sibling Snark

Hansis particularly enjoys the dynamic between Lucas and Carly. “I think it’s very true to how siblings talk to each other, and it’s very fun to play,” he explained, noting their mix of love and sarcastic banter. He shared that Carly sometimes finds Lucas’s protective warnings frustrating, but that’s exactly what makes the relationship real. Hansis also praised Maura West for her positive energy, professionalism, and ability to keep the fast-paced environment enjoyable on set.

State Of Mind

When Hansis appeared on co-star Maurice Benard’s podcast, State of Mind, the actor opened up about having panic attacks, one of which happened right as he was about to shoot a scene. Although he does not usually watch himself, he made a point to go back and watch the scenes because it was the only time he had a panic attack to see what it looked like. “It didn’t look like anything, you can’t tell,” he told the host.

This story was originally reported on Soap Hub on October 5, 2025. Add Soap Hub as a Preferred Source by clicking here.