As she reflected on the unforgettable impact she left behind both on and off screen, her colleague posted on social media to announce the passing of actress Leslie Charleson.
Known for her decades-long portrayal of Monica Quartermaine on the popular ABC series “General Hospital,” Leslie Charleson passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 79. According to Variety, the legendary soap opera star passed away after a protracted illness.
“General Hospital’s” official Instagram account honored Charleson with a poignant letter from Executive Producer Frank Valentini. She was the “beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew,” he said, adding that her influence on the program lasted for almost 50 years.
Valentini wrote, “I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit and incredible presence on set. On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time.”
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On X, formerly Twitter, television executive Nathan Varni paid tribute to Charleson’s legacy by showcasing her acting prowess and kind disposition. He made a lasting impression by observing her propensity to greet everyone with a smile and open arms. “The world will miss you, Leslie,” he said in closing.
Charleson, who was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 22, 1945, had a remarkable career in entertainment. Although her position on “General Hospital,” which she started in 1977, has made her famous, she also starred in the show’s spinoffs, such as “General Hospital: Night Shift” (2008) and “Port Charles” (1997–2001).
In a 2019 Digital Journal interview, Charleson reflected on her longevity in the industry: “Interest in the material is what keeps you around and relationships.” She also noted, “I am the only actor on the show that doesn’t have another soap opera to talk about since I have never done another soap opera, while almost everybody else has.”
On a satirical take on her part on the “General Hospital” spinoff “Port Charles,” the seasoned actress also expressed pride in the way new characters frequently developed a bond with the Quartermaine family.
In addition to soap operas, Charleson became well-known for his cameos on hit television shows such as “Happy Days,” “Diagnosis Murder,” “Kung Fu,” “Dharma & Greg,” and “Cannon.”
She also costarred with Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry, Lisa Kudrow, and Matt LeBlanc in an episode of the classic comedy “Friends.” Charleson also starred in the short film “The Return of the Musketeers” in the television film “Woman on the Ledge.”
Leslie Charleson’s work on “General Hospital” solidified her status as a legend of daytime television, motivating both coworkers and fans. Her exceptional kindness, skill, and commitment will never be forgotten.
