General Hospital (GH) fans are heartbroken tonight, after learning that Leslie Charleson has passed away. Charleston, who played Dr. Monica Quartermaine on the sudser, died at the age of 79 from a long illness.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson,” GH Executive Producer Frank Valentini announced.
“Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years on General Hospital alone and, just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaines, Leslie was a beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew.”
Leslie Charleson Landed The Monica Quartermaine Role In 1976
Charleson had a long history on soaps. Her first acting gig was as Pam in Flame In The Wind. Then she portrayed Alice Whipple on As The World Turns. She was also on Love Is A Many Splendored Thing but eventually landed at GH in 1976.
Charleson’s fans and co-stars reacted to the sad news on social media. “So so sad to hear about Leslie Charleson’s passing!” a fan posted on X. “Grew up watching Monica on screen and General Hospital will not be the same without her! Monica and Alan Quartermaine will always have a special place in my heart.”
“I just learned that Leslie Charleson has passed,” Sean Kanan, who portrayed A.J. Quartermaine on GH, posted on X. “We played mother and son off and on for years. My deepest condolences to her family. May you rest in peace, Lester.”
General Hospital Actress’ Last Appearance Was In December 2023
Sarah Joy Brown, who portrayed Carly Spencer on GH from 1996 to 2001, described Charleson’s timing as legendary. “Grateful to have had the opportunity to learn so much from her while I was starting my run on General Hospital,” she said.
“Watching her work with Stuart Damon, a.k.a. Alan Quartermaine, and John Ingle was a joy for me, especially when I was included in the scenes, but even when I wasn’t. Sending my condolences to her friends, family, fans, and all of her co-workers.”
The veteran actress had not appeared on the sudser for more than a year, due to her illness. Charleson’s last appearance on GH was on December 21, 2023.
We at the Soap Scoop would like to extend our condolences to Charleson’s family and friends. May she rest in peace. The Soap Scoop is your source for General Hospital spoilers and news.
