Leslie Charleson, the actress who played the iconic character Monica Quartermaine 'General hospital'died at the age of 79. Per Varietyshe died on Sunday morning after a long illness. 'General hospital' executive producer Frank Valentini announced the actress' news on Instagram.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson. Her lasting legacy has lasted almost 50 years on General Hospital alone and just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaines, Leslie was a beloved matriarch to the entire cast and crew, I will continue to share our daily conversations, her quick wit and incredible presence on missing the set,” Mr. Valentini confirmed on the show's official Instagram account.
See the message here:
As the show's 'matriarch', Monica was a central figure in one of TV's most beloved love triangles, alongside Rick and Alan. She joined the ABC drama in 1977 and went on to appear in more than 2,000 episodes, earning her the title of longest-running cast member on the series.
Before her death, she faced a series of health problems. She was last seen publicly three months ago, using a walker and having lunch with friends in Los Angeles.
Her health problems began in 2017 when she fell while walking her dog, injuring her leg and missing two months of work. 'General hospital'. She was temporarily replaced by Patty McCormack. Mrs. Charleson fell again years later and was recast for a day. Her injuries ultimately required her to use a walker. In October, show executives announced that Charleson's return to the series was unlikely. Her last appearance on General Hospital was in December 2023.
Leslie Charleson's TV career
Ms. Charleson's career spanned more than five decades, the most notable of which was her role as Monica Quartermaine. Throughout her time 'General hospital'she received numerous nominations, including four Daytime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. In addition to her iconic role as Monica Quartermaine, she reprized the character in spin-offs 'General Hospital: Night Shift' And 'Port Charles.'
Of her lengthy stint on the ABC drama, Ms. Charleson told Digital Journal in 2019, “I only signed on for two years and I don't know what happened. I love her spunk, independence and everything about her. There weren't many good female roles that had that. It was a great time, and it was strong material to perform.”
Ms Charleson's acting credits also include an appearance as herself on the hit show 'Friends', guest-starred as Mrs. Dorothy Kimber on the hit sitcom 'Happy Days' and a role as a waitress 'The Return of the Muskrats.'
