Leslie Charleson, best known for her iconic role as Monica Quartermaine on the long-running TV show General Hospital, has passed away at the age of 79. She died due to complications from a long illness, as confirmed by a source close to her. Charleson’s death was announced by General Hospital‘s executive producer, Frank Valentini, on Sunday.
A Legacy of Love and Talent
Leslie Charleson’s career spanned decades, leaving behind a legacy that touched the hearts of many. She joined General Hospital in 1977 and portrayed the strong-willed and caring Dr. Monica Quartermaine.
For nearly 50 years, Charleson was a vital part of the show, appearing in over 2,000 episodes. She was not just a beloved character on screen but also the matriarch of the General Hospital family, loved by her colleagues and fans alike.
Frank Valentini, General Hospital‘s executive producer, expressed deep sorrow at the loss of his friend and colleague. In an emotional message, he wrote, “Leslie was the beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew. I’ll miss our daily conversations, her quick wit, and her amazing presence on set.”
He extended heartfelt condolences to her family and shared that her contribution to the soap opera’s legacy would never be forgotten.
A Remarkable Career in Television
Charleson’s career did not stop at General Hospital. Before her iconic role, she starred in other TV dramas, including A Flame in the Wind and Love Is a Many Splendored Thing. She also made appearances in popular TV series such as As the World Turns, N.Y.P.D., The Rookies, and Marcus Welby, M.D..
In a 2019 interview with Digital Journal, Charleson revealed that she initially only signed on for a two-year contract with General Hospital. However, the actress quickly found a strong connection to her role and never imagined staying for decades.
She admired the quality of material she was given, particularly as there weren’t many great roles for women in television at the time. Her time on the show was nothing short of remarkable.
Continuing Her Legacy
Charleson’s portrayal of Monica Quartermaine wasn’t just limited to General Hospital. She reprised her role in the show’s spin-offs, Port Charles and General Hospital: Night Shift.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, she made guest appearances in sitcoms like Dharma & Greg and Friends, but she always stayed close to the General Hospital family. Her final appearance on the soap opera came in December 2023 in the episode titled Everything You Ever Wanted.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy in the world of daytime television will continue to be celebrated.
FAQs
1. How old was Leslie Charleson when she passed away?
Leslie Charleson was 79 years old when she passed away.
2. What was Leslie Charleson’s most famous role?
Leslie Charleson was best known for her role as Monica Quartermaine on General Hospital, a role she played for nearly 50 years.
3. How many episodes did Leslie Charleson appear in on General Hospital?
Leslie Charleson appeared in over 2,000 episodes of General Hospital over her nearly 50-year career.
4. What other TV shows did Leslie Charleson appear in?
Before joining General Hospital, Charleson appeared in shows such as A Flame in the Wind, Love Is a Many Splendored Thing, As the World Turns, and Marcus Welby, M.D.
5. When was Leslie Charleson’s last appearance on General Hospital?
Leslie Charleson’s final appearance on General Hospital was in December 2023, in the episode titled Everything You Ever Wanted
