Roger Howarth was born on September 13, 1968 in Westchester County, New York. At an early age, he was exposed to the arts, thus growing up actively participating in school plays and productions. He also played soccer when he was in his late teens and was given the opportunity to play with the Puma Shoes U.S. National Soccer Team. He went to George Washinton University to attend one semester and drop out to pursue his acting career. He was discovered in a nationwide talent search and was then cast in a daytime drama Loving. After the short stint he was again cast for another series, One Life to Live. For this role he won a Daytime Emmy for Younger Actor. In 1995, he also won the Soap Opera Digest Award for Outstanding Younger Lead Actor. Three years later, he picked up the Soap Opera Digest Award for Outstanding Villian. In 2003, he was cast for the soap opera As the World Turns. Howarth is married to Cari Stahler and has three children with her.

Paul Ryan is played by Roger Howarth in the soap opera As the World Turns. Paul was born to James Stenbeck and Barbara Ryan but was later temporarily adopted by Claudia and Raymond Colfax. He had five half siblings from both biological parents. He was also married to Rosanna Cabot before marrying Emily Stewart whom he shortly divorced. Paul has committed several crimes such as shoplifting, assault, murder and bribery.