Susan Stewart (alsoBurke, Baxter, McDermott and Decker) is a fictional character from the defunct American soap opera As the World Turns. While several actresses have played Susan, the role is most identified with Marie Masters, who played Susan for most of the character's run. Masters stepped into the role in September 1968. Susan was at the center of several stories until the character (and Masters) left the show in 1979, before returning in 1986. Susan was known for her dysfunctional personality and scheming nature. A reformed alcoholic and respected physician, she played a supporting role in later years offering advice to her two daughters, Alison and Emily, who inherited their mother's penchant for controversy and trouble.