Leslie Charleson, the legendary daytime actress best known for her role as Dr. Monica Quartermaine on the long-running soap opera General Hospital, has passed away at the age of 79 after battling illness.
The news was shared on Sunday night by the show’s executive producer, Frank Valentini, who expressed his deep sorrow via the show's official Instagram account. "It is with a heavy heart..." Valentini stated, honoring Charleson's contributions to the show and her cherished position among the cast members. "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 incredible presence on set."
Leslie Charleson first graced the screen as Monica Quartermaine back in 1977. Over the years, she became synonymous with the character, delivering compelling performances through some of daytime television’s most memorable storylines. Notably, she received four Daytime Emmy nominations throughout her career, firmly establishing herself as one of the respected figures of the genre.
A native of Kansas City, Missouri, Charleson began her acting career at just 19 years old with her first significant role on the soap opera A Flame in the Wind. From there, she transitioned to General Hospital, joining the existing cast during what she later described as "a hostile environment," referring to the departure of the actress who originally played Monica.
After some initial challenges, including competing with the legacy of the previous Monica, Charleson made the role her own. Her storylines often mirrored real-life challenges, including Monica's struggles with breast cancer, which Charleson portrayed with grace and depth, adding to the character's richness and relatability. This powerful representation earned her accolades and recognition within the industry.
The character of Monica Quartermaine became central to many key plots on General Hospital, which included enduring relationships and dramatic conflicts within the Quartermaine family. Charleson’s on-screen chemistry with the late Stuart Damon, who played Alan Quartermaine, became one of the show's most beloved pairings. Their tumultuous yet passionate relationship kept audiences captivated for decades, making the Quartermaines one of the most iconic families in soap opera history.
Throughout her illustrious career, Charleson also made forays outside of daytime television. She guest-starred on popular primetime shows such as Friends and Dharma & Greg and starred alongside other soap stars in the made-for-TV movie Woman on the Ledge. Although she flourished across various platforms, her heart and legacy remained firmly rooted at General Hospital.
Charleson’s last appearance on the show was recorded just over a year before her passing. Despite her health struggles, including injuries related to multiple falls, her character maintained weight and prominence on the series, demonstrating her indomitable spirit.
Her significant contributions to daytime drama will endure long past her passing. The community of General Hospital, which includes fans and co-stars alike, mourns the loss of Leslie Charleson—a true icon of the genre. Valentini stated on behalf of everyone at General Hospital, "My heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time." The legacy of Leslie Charleson will echo within the hearts of her colleagues and the fans who cherished her for decades.