Leslie Charleson, a revered actress from "General Hospital," has died in Los Angeles.
On January 12, aged 79, Leslie Charleson passed away in a Los Angeles hospital, marking the end of her nearly half-century-long portrayal of Dr. Monica Quartermaine, Deadline reported.
Frank Valentini, the executive producer of "General Hospital," officially confirmed her death. Her brilliant rendition as Monica Quartermaine, which began in 1977 and continued up to December 2023, has left a lasting legacy in the world of daytime drama.
Born in Missouri, Leslie Charleson embarked on her television career with roles in the soap operas "A Flame in the Wind" and "As the World Turns." Her early days in the industry helped her hone the skills that would later define her career.
She made several appearances on popular TV shows such as "The Wild, Wild West," "Mannix," and "Adam-12." Her involvement in these series showcased her versatility and helped pave the way for her future success in daytime television.
Charleson's role expanded beyond just acting; she became a beloved figure on set. Her presence was a stabilizing and inspiring force for her colleagues and the production team alike.
In 1977, Leslie Charleson joined the cast of "General Hospital" and took over the role of Monica from actress Patsy Rahn. She portrayed Monica Quartermaine, creating one of the most iconic characters in soap opera history, with her performance continuing robustly until her health necessitated a step back from the show in December 2023.
Monica's character centered many of the show's most dramatic storylines, including tumultuous relationships, dramatic fights, and memorable reconciliations. Her on-screen marriage to Alan (played by Stuart Damon) became particularly renowned for its fiery ups and downs.
Charleson's character also faced significant personal challenges, including a mid-90s storyline in which Monica was diagnosed with breast cancer. This plot not only heightened the drama on the show but also prompted Charleson to become a vocal advocate for breast cancer awareness.
Off-screen, Leslie Charleson used her platform to raise awareness about breast cancer, inspired by her character's battle with the disease. She informed her advocacy work through a deep understanding of the impact such a storyline could have on viewers and those affected by the disease in real life.
Her personal life reflected its highs and lows in her public persona. Charleson married G. William Demms in 1988, and the couple divorced in 1991. Yet, despite personal challenges, she remained a respected and cherished figure within the acting community.
Her passing was deeply felt by her colleagues and fans alike. Frank Valentini expressed his sorrow on X, stating, “It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson. Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years on General Hospital alone and, just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaine family, Leslie was a beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew.”
Charleson made an immense contribution to television, especially to "General Hospital." She began unexpectedly on the day Elvis Presley passed away and went on to become a memorable face on daytime TV. Her journey was nothing short of remarkable.
Reflecting on her beginnings on "General Hospital," Charleson recounted in a 2022 interview with Soap Opera Digest a rocky start marked by a strike and initial hostility from co-workers.
Despite these challenges, her resolve and dedication turned her role into one of the most beloved on the show, cementing her place in TV history. Leslie Charleson's memory and work continue to inspire and influence those both within and outside of the entertainment industry.
