Actress Leslie Charleson, famously recognized as Monica Quartermaine in the soap opera “General Hospital,” passed away on Sunday following a prolonged illness. She was 79 years old.
With great sadness, I share the news that my cherished friend and coworker, Leslie Charleson, has sadly passed away. This tragic event was confirmed by ‘General Hospital’ executive producer, Frank Valentini. Over almost 50 years on ‘General Hospital’, Leslie’s impact was profound, much like how Monica was the soul of the Quartermaines. On set, she was not only a cherished member of the cast but also a beloved figure among the crew. I will deeply miss our daily conversations, her sharp humor, and the remarkable energy she brought to work. My sincere condolences to Leslie’s loved ones during this challenging period; they are in our thoughts and prayers.
The cherished actress, who debuted on the soap opera in 1977, has faced some health challenges in recent times, which have reduced her screen time on ABC’s soap opera, where she last appeared in December 2023. Lately, she’s had multiple falls that affected her mobility, and now she uses a walker. Despite these setbacks, they didn’t dampen her spirit. Last week, she was admitted to the hospital due to another fall.
Born in Kansas City, she kicked off her extensive television career in 1964 at the age of 19, featuring in the brief ABC soap opera “A Flame in the Wind” titled. Subsequently, from 1967 to 1969, she starred in CBS’s “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing,” portraying Iris Donnelly Garrison, who was part of a well-known love triangle with characters played by Donna Mills and David Birney. Throughout the 70s, she made guest appearances on popular shows such as “The Rockford Files,” “The Wild West,” “The Streets of San Francisco,” “Marcus Welby, M.D.,” “Mannix,” “Ironside,” and “Happy Days,” where she played divorcée Dorothy Kimber and shared a first on-screen kiss with actor-director Ron Howard (depicting Richie). In 1973, she acted alongside Shelley Winters in the movie “The Day of the Dolphin.” Enchanted by marine mammals, she continued to collect dolphins for the remainder of her life.
In her later years, she appeared as a guest star on shows like “Dharma & Greg,” “Diagnosis: Murder,” and “Friends.” Additionally, she took on roles alongside soap opera stars Deidre Hall from “Days of Our Lives” and Colleen Zenk from “As the World Turns” in the 1993 television movie titled “Woman on the Ledge.”
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Later in her career, she made guest appearances on shows such as “Dharma & Greg,” “Diagnosis: Murder,” and “Friends.” Furthermore, she acted alongside soap opera stars Deidre Hall from “Days of Our Lives” and Colleen Zenk from “As the World Turns” in a 1993 television movie titled “Woman on the Ledge.
Despite frequently appearing in prime-time shows, she stepped back into the soap opera realm in 1977, landing the role of Monica Bard on “General Hospital” after Patsy Rahn’s departure. Charleson often joked about the cool reception she received from some cast and crew members who were displeased with her predecessor being let go. However, her wit soon endeared her to them all.
Throughout her over 40-year tenure on “General Hospital,” Monica, portrayed by Charleson, was involved in one of daytime television’s largest and most beloved love triangles (Rick/Monica/Alan). She provided viewers with a mix of humor (she had a knack for slapping people and was part of the super-wealthy, constantly bickering, and dysfunctional Quartermaine family) and drama (including battling breast cancer and the loss of three children). Additionally, she has been shot and faced gunpoint situations multiple times. During this time, she received four Daytime Emmy nominations for outstanding lead actress.
Following a 30-year run on “GH,” her contract was terminated and her appearances were limited to recurring roles in 2010, sparking protests among fans and show enthusiasts. In 2017, Charleson had an accident while walking her dog, injuring her leg, which led to another actress, Patty McCormack, filling in for two months. She experienced another fall a few years later and was temporarily replaced again, this time for just one day. Last October, it was suggested that she might not return. However, the character of Monica is still referenced when the Quartermaines gather, with mentions of her being upstairs in their mansion.
I had a close relationship with Leslie; we were almost like family. She was an exceptional friend to me, always showing kindness, enthusiasm, loyalty, and generosity. I recall numerous instances at her charming home where her turtle would roam freely in the lush backyard only to vanish among the foliage. We’d often gather in the cozy kitchen nook for heartfelt conversations and laughter, with me occasionally teasing her about her affection for Elvis Presley and the Eagles. Leslie had a contagious laugh that seemed to bubble up from the soles of her feet. Among her greatest passions were her horse and “General Hospital.” She cherished the show and being an integral part of its history. Her fans, she adored them dearly. I wish she could feel the love and admiration she inspired in return… and know that she will be deeply missed.
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2025-01-13 02:46