Maura West, a name synonymous with captivating performances in daytime television, has carved an indelible niche for herself in the world of soap operas. With a career spanning decades and multiple iconic roles, fans and industry watchers are often curious about the success and wealth she has accumulated. As of 2025, Maura West’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, a testament to her talent, hard work, and enduring presence in a competitive industry.
Who is Maura West? An Overview
Born Maura Jo Snyder on April 27, 1972, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Maura West is an American actress celebrated for her powerful portrayals of complex female characters. She is a multiple Daytime Emmy Award winner, recognized for her leading roles in some of the longest-running soap operas. Her ability to bring depth and intensity to her characters has garnered her a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim throughout her career.
Early Life and Path to Stardom
From a young age, West showed a passion for the performing arts. She pursued formal training to hone her craft, graduating from Boston University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Reports also indicate she attended the prestigious Carnegie Mellon University. This solid educational foundation in theatre and acting prepared her for the demanding world of television.
West adopted her mother’s maiden name, West, when she embarked on her professional acting career, a journey that would soon see her become a household name for daytime drama enthusiasts.
A Stellar Career in Daytime Television
Maura West’s career is primarily defined by her impactful roles in several major soap operas. She has demonstrated remarkable versatility and longevity in a genre known for its fast-paced production and dedicated viewership.
Breakthrough on “As the World Turns”
West’s breakthrough came in 1995 when she was cast as Carly Tenney Snyder on the CBS soap opera As the World Turns. She portrayed Carly, with a brief hiatus, from 1995 until the show’s finale in 2010. Her depiction of the often troubled, yet resilient Carly earned her widespread recognition and her first two Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress. Her chemistry with co-star Michael Park, who played Jack Snyder, was a fan favorite.
“The Young and the Restless” and Dominance on “General Hospital”
Shortly after As the World Turns concluded, West joined another CBS soap, The Young and the Restless, in October 2010, taking on the role of Diane Jenkins. Her tenure was relatively short, ending in August 2011.
However, a new, iconic role awaited her. In 2013, West joined the cast of ABC’s General Hospital as the formidable and often villainous Ava Jerome. This role has been a significant success, showcasing West’s talent for playing morally ambiguous characters with flair and conviction. As Ava, she navigates complex storylines involving crime, romance, and family drama, consistently delivering compelling performances that have earned her another Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in 2015.
“It can be hard playing Ava a little bit sometimes… She has so few allies. It sometimes feels like there’s just this barrage of people pointing and hating and spitting and bitching at me… But I love playing Ava, I really do. There’s so much to her.” – Maura West on playing Ava Jerome, as told to Soap Opera Digest.
Accumulating Wealth: Salary and Net Worth
Maura West’s estimated net worth of $5 million is primarily derived from her long and successful career in television. Soap opera actors, especially those with prominent, long-standing roles and critical acclaim, can command significant salaries.
Reports suggest that for her role as Ava Jerome on General Hospital, West earns an annual salary in the vicinity of $600,000. This consistent income, coupled with earnings from her previous roles, endorsements (if any), and other appearances, has contributed to her financial standing. While specific details of her financial portfolio are private, her sustained presence as a leading lady in daytime dramas for over two decades underscores her value in the industry.
Awards and Recognition: A Testament to Her Talent
Maura West’s talent has not gone unnoticed by her peers and industry organizations. She has been nominated for an impressive 12 Daytime Emmy Awards, winning three in the highly competitive Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series category:
- 2007: For her role as Carly Snyder in As the World Turns.
- 2010: Again for Carly Snyder in As the World Turns.
- 2015: For her portrayal of Ava Jerome in General Hospital.
These accolades highlight her consistent excellence and ability to connect with audiences and critics alike. Beyond the Emmys, she has received various other nominations and nods from Soap Opera Digest Awards, further cementing her status as a distinguished actress in the genre.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Beyond the screen, Maura West balances her demanding career with a rich personal life. She has been married twice. Her first marriage was to Jonathan Knight from 1995 to 1999, with whom she has one son, Benjamin (born 1996). In 2000, West married her former As the World Turns co-star Scott DeFreitas (who played Andy Dixon). They have four children together: Joseph (born 2000), Katherine (born 2002), Basil (born 2007), and Birdie (born 2009). Her son, Joe West (DeFreitas), has followed in her artistic footsteps, pursuing a career as a Broadway actor.
West is also known for her philanthropic efforts. She has lent her support to charitable organizations, including the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation and the National Autism Foundation, demonstrating a commitment to giving back to the community.
The Enduring Legacy of Maura West
With a career marked by unforgettable characters, critical acclaim, and a substantial net worth, Maura West stands as one of daytime television’s most respected and accomplished actresses. Her ability to consistently deliver powerful performances has not only entertained millions but has also secured her financial success and a lasting legacy in the soap opera world. As she continues to captivate audiences as Ava Jerome on General Hospital, her influence and contributions to the genre remain significant. Her journey from a fine arts student to a celebrated TV icon is an inspiring story of talent meeting dedication.
