Van Hansis has received his second consecutive Daytime Emmy Award nomination for his portrayal of Luke on As the World Turns.

''This is awesome,'' said the 26-year-old actor lastThursday afternoon, a day after nominations were announced. ''It's a huge, huge honor. This is the last year I'll be placed in this category, because I'll be too old next year.''

Hansis has been nominated as Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series for his character, who Hansis describes as a spoiled, rich kid; he took the role two and a half years ago.

The star was nominated in the same category last year, but lost to Bryton McClure, who plays Devon Hamilton The Young and the Restless.

''I've watched Luke grow up and become assertive with who he is,'' said Hansis, who began in the role at age 24 playing a 17-year-old gay teen. ''He's more of an adult now. He holds his own.''