Leslie Charleson, the legendary actress who portrayed Dr. Monica Quartermaine on the long-running ABC soap opera General Hospital, has passed away at the age of 79.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by General Hospital’s Executive Producer Frank Valentini on X.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, @lesliecharleson. Her legacy spans nearly 50 years on General Hospital, where she was the heart of the Quartermaine family. Leslie was not just a remarkable actress but a cherished member of our cast and crew. My deepest condolences go out to her loved ones,” Valentini shared.
Leslie Charleson’s Iconic Career
Leslie Charleson joined General Hospital in 1977, taking over the role of Monica Quartermaine from Patsy Rahn. Over her career, she earned four Daytime Emmy nominations and became a fan favorite, playing Monica until her retirement in December 2023 due to health issues.
Her journey in television started with roles in soaps like A Flame in the Wind and As the World Turns, followed by guest appearances on popular shows such as The Wild, Wild West, Mannix, Adam-12, Medical Center, Happy Days, and Cannon.
Reflecting on her start with General Hospital, Charleson once shared, “I joined the show the day Elvis Presley died. It was an emotional day, and I had no idea how challenging it would be. There was even a strike going on when I arrived, and I realized many cast members didn’t initially warm up to me because of the way the previous Monica was fired.”
A Beloved Soap Opera Matriarch
Fans adored Monica Quartermaine for her dramatic storylines, including her tumultuous marriage to Alan Quartermaine, played by the late Stuart Damon. Their rollercoaster relationship, filled with affairs, epic fights, and reconciliations, captivated audiences. The couple remarried in 1991 and stayed together until Alan’s character passed away in 2007.
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Beyond her acting, Charleson used her platform to advocate for breast cancer awareness. Her portrayal of Monica battling the disease in the 1990s resonated deeply with viewers.
A Lasting Legacy
Born in Missouri, Leslie Charleson had a career that spanned decades, making her one of the most respected names in daytime television. She was briefly married to G. William Demms from 1988 to 1991.
Her incredible talent, charm, and dedication will be missed by fans, friends, and the entire General Hospital family.
