Norway native Ewa da Cruz began modeling when she was 8 years old after being discovered at a store.

What else is interesting about this As the World Turns star? Here are a series of facts about her:

• Is of Norwegian and Egyptian descent, but her last name is Portuguese.

• Co-starred with Tammy Blanchard (ex-Drew, Guiding Light) in the film Bella.

• Was sent to audition for As the World Turns because she needed contract work when her visa was rejected.

• Originaly tested for Lucy on As the World Turns.

• Was conversational in English, but became fluent in the language after she came to the United States in 2002.