Actress Leslie Charleson has passed away, as her colleague announced on social media while reflecting on the memorable legacy she created both on and off-screen.
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.
Leslie Charleson attends ABC’s “General Hospital” Fan Day in Studio City, California, on August 25, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
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.
Leslie Charleson attends the 88th Hollywood Christmas Parade on December 1, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
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.”
Television executive Nathan Varni honored Charleson’s memory on X, formerly Twitter, highlighting her talent as an actress and her warm nature. He noted her habit of welcoming everyone with a smile and open arms, leaving a lasting impression. He concluded, “The world will miss you, Leslie. 💔”
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).
In a 2019 Digital Journal interview, Charleson reflected on her longevity in the industry, “Interest in the material is what keeps you around and relationships.” She also noted, “I am the only actor on the show that doesn’t have another soap opera to talk about since I have never done another soap opera, while almost everybody else has.”
Leslie Charleson, Chris Robinson, and Denise Alexander at ABC’s “General Hospital” Fan Day on August 25, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
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.”
Leslie Charleson attends the ABC TV Affiliates Party in Century City, California, on June 9, 1987 | Source: Getty Images
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.
