Leslie Charleson, the legendary actress who brought to life the character of Dr. Monica Quartermaine on the beloved daytime drama General Hospital, has passed away at the age of 79 after battling significant health challenges. Her death was confirmed by Frank Valentini, the executive producer of the long-running series, on the show's official Instagram account.
Valentini expressed his sorrow, stating, “It is with a heavy heart... I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit and incredible presence on set.” He honored Charleson not only for her immense talent but also for being the beloved matriarch of the cast and crew, referring to her as “the heart of the Quartermaines.”
Charleson made her debut on General Hospital back in 1977, stepping seamlessly onto the set to take over from Patsy Rahn. Over the decades, she became synonymous with the character of Monica, appearing in more than 2,000 episodes and establishing one of the most memorable characters on daytime television. She was part of gripping storylines, including enduring breast cancer and enduring tumultuous romantic relationships.
Born on February 22, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri, Charleson started her career early, featuring first on the short-lived soap A Flame in the Wind in 1964. She quickly gained attention through her role on Love Is A Many Splendored Thing from 1967 to 1970. Charleson also guest-starred on many notable series during the 70s and beyond, including Happy Days, The Rockford Files, and Marcus Welby, M.D..
Throughout her extraordinary career, Charleson was recognized for her performances, earning four Daytime Emmy nominations. Her character Monica was intricately woven throughout the lives of the Quartermaine family, embroiled in dramatic romances and family drama, which helped cement the show's legacy.
After over 40 years with General Hospital, she went to recurring status after 2010, and her health began to decline, which limited her appearances. Charleson hadn’t been seen on the soap since December 2023, when she reportedly took her final leave from the series due to multiple falls. Despite these challenges, her resilient spirit remained unbroken. Valentini noted, “I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit and incredible presence on set.”
Charleson also used her platform to advocate for breast cancer awareness after her character was diagnosed with the illness, helping to raise awareness about the disease through her role.
Fans and colleagues alike are mourning her loss and honoring her impactful legacy. Co-stars took to social media to share their memories and express their condolences. Fellow actor Steve Burton, who played her on-screen son, has shared hopes to reunite with her had she returned. “I always loved playing alongside her... we were family on set,” he shared.
Known for her acute humor and kindness, Charleson left cherished memories with many. She said in 2019, reflecting on her career, “I only signed on for two years, and I don't know what happened. There weren't a lot of good female roles back then, and it was strong material to act.” This sentiment mirrors the sentiments of many actors who sought roles during the often male-dominated television era.
Despite her absence from the screen toward the end of her life, her character continues to be referenced within the storylines of the show, with characters often speaking of her. This symbolic inclusion highlights the lasting impact she has had on the soap which will continue to exist for the future.
Leslie Charleson will be remembered not only for her contributions to General Hospital and daytime television but also for her positive spirit and connections with fans. The soap community is grieving, but her legacy will undeniably live on through the numerous lives she touched over her near five-decade career.