Starr is the oldest child of Todd Manning and Blair Cramer. Starr and younger brother, Jack and distant cousin, Zane Buchanan, are the only three characters biologically related to both longtime "One Life to Live" rivals Victoria Lord and Dr. Dorian Cramer Lord. The character's most significant storylines featured her dealing with her parents' volatile relationship, her early adolescent friendship with Matthew Buchanan, portrayed by Alderson's real-life brother, Eddie, and her close friendship with Langston Wilde, as well as her romantic relationships with Cole Thornhart and James Ford on "One Life to Live" and Michael Corinthos on "General Hospital".