Leslie Charleson, ‘General Hospital’ Actress, Passes Away – Details
Leslie Charleson, best known for her decades-long role as Monica Quartermaine on the hit ABC series “General Hospital,” died Sunday morning at 79. Variety reported that the soap opera icon succumbed to a long illness.
The official Instagram account of “General Hospital” paid tribute to Charleson with a heartfelt statement from Executive Producer Frank Valentini. He described her as the “beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew,” noting that her legacy on the show spanned nearly 50 years.
Valentini wrote, “I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit and incredible presence on set. On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time.”
Born on February 22, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri, Charleson carved out a storied career in the entertainment industry. While she became synonymous with her role on “General Hospital,” which she joined in 1977, she also appeared in the show’s spinoffs, including “Port Charles” (1997–2001) and “General Hospital: Night Shift” (2008).
The veteran actress also shared a humorous take on her role in the “General Hospital” spinoff “Port Charles,” expressing pride in how new characters often became connected to the Quartermaine family.
Beyond soap operas, Charleson gained recognition for guest roles on popular TV series, including “Dharma & Greg,” “Diagnosis Murder,” “Kung Fu,” “Cannon,” and “Happy Days.”
She also appeared in an episode of the iconic “Friends” sitcom alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry, Lisa Kudrow, and Matt LeBlanc. Additionally, Charleson starred in the TV movie “Woman on the Ledge” and the short film “The Return of the Musketeers.”
Leslie Charleson’s career on “General Hospital” cemented her as a daytime television legend, inspiring viewers and colleagues alike. Her extraordinary warmth, talent, and dedication will remain unforgettable.
