Leslie Charleson, iconic General Hospital star, passes away at 79

Leslie Charleson, the iconic actress beloved for her portrayal of Monica Quartermaine on the long-running soap opera ‘General Hospital’, passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 79 after battling a prolonged illness.  

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson,” said General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini in a post on Instagram.

“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. I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit, and her incredible presence on set. On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time.”

Charleson joined General Hospital in 1977 and remained a cherished member of the cast for over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on the soap opera’s legacy.

Her portrayal of Monica Quartermaine involved gripping storylines, from surviving breast cancer to navigating the family drama of the Quartermaines, cementing her as a fan favourite. She earned four Daytime Emmy nominations for her work.

Born in Kansas City, Charleson began her acting career in 1964 on the ABC soap opera A Flame in the Wind. Over the years, she made notable appearances in prime-time series such as The Rockford Files, Happy Days, and The Streets of San Francisco. Her film work included a starring role alongside Shelley Winters in The Day of the Dolphin (1973).

In recent years, health issues, including several falls, impacted Charleson’s mobility and appearances on General Hospital. She was last seen on the show in December 2023, with her character continuing to be referenced in the storyline.

Charleson, who first stepped into the role of Monica in 1977, became a cornerstone of the series, captivating audiences for over four decades. Her performance brought depth and complexity to one of *General Hospital*’s most enduring characters, earning her widespread admiration and a devoted fan base.

A talented actress with an illustrious career, Charleson contributed significantly to the golden era of daytime television, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Fans and colleagues alike have taken to social media to express their grief and celebrate her remarkable legacy, remembering her as a brilliant performer and a kind-hearted individual.

Leslie Charleson’s passing marks the end of an era, but her contributions to television will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.