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General Hospital‘s beloved character Monica Quartermaine has sadly passed away. According to <em>Variety</em>, renowned soap opera star Leslie Charleson passed on January 12, 2025, at the age of 79. The executive producer of the long-running soap, Frank Valentini, expressed his deep sorrow in a heartfelt tribute, highlighting the significant impact Leslie had on the show. He stated, “It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson. 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 her incredible presence on set. On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time.”

Variety reports that Leslie Charleson had been facing health challenges over the past few years. An official cause of death has not yet been disclosed. In light of this sorrowful news, explore more about her remarkable life and career in the sections below.

Discover the Remarkable Career of Leslie Charleson as a Renowned Television Actress

Leslie Charleson is best recognized for her remarkable performances in soap operas, but her career spans a diverse array of television, film, and daytime productions. She launched her acting journey in 1964 with a role in the short-lived ABC soap A Flame in the Wind before making her mark on As the World Turns in 1966. In 1967, she captivated audiences as Iris Donnelly Garrison in Love is a Many Splendored Thing. Her most iconic role began in August 1977 when she joined General Hospital as the cardiologist Monica Quartermaine, a character that has become synonymous with her name. According to Soap Hub, at the time of her passing, she was the longest-running cast member on the show, showcasing her dedication and talent.

Leslie stepped away from her iconic role on General Hospital in December 2023 due to health complications, as reported by Closer Weekly. Her tenure on the beloved soap opera spanned nearly five decades, a testament to her talent and the affection viewers held for her. Throughout her illustrious career, she also guest-starred in various television series, including Friends, Happy Days, The Rockford Files, and Dharma & Greg, as well as appearing in several films, further showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Explore Leslie Charleson’s Early Life and Origins in Kansas City, Missouri

Leslie Charleson was born in the vibrant arts and culture hub of Kansas City, Missouri, on February 22, 1945. From a young age, she exhibited a passion for acting and knew that she wanted to pursue this dream. She later moved to New York City, a city renowned for its theatrical landscape, to chase her aspirations of becoming a successful actress. This move marked the beginning of her journey in the entertainment industry, where she would go on to leave an indelible mark.

Uncover the Details of Leslie Charleson’s Brief Marriage

According to her Wikipedia page, Leslie Charleson was briefly married to Bill Demms from 1988 to 1991. Not much is publicly known about their short-lived marriage, but it is a part of her personal history that adds depth to her life story. Despite the brevity of this chapter, it reflects the complexities that often accompany the lives of those in the public eye.

Recognizing Leslie Charleson as an Award-Winning Actress

Leslie Charleson’s remarkable talent did not go unrecognized, as she was honored with four Daytime Emmy nominations and won the award four times. She received the Outstanding Lead Actress accolade for her exceptional performance on General Hospital in the years 1986, 1988, 1990, and 1993. Her very first nomination was for her role in Love is a Many Splendored Thing, showcasing her talent early in her career and paving the way for her future successes.

Leslie Charleson’s Commitment to Advocacy as a Celebrity Spokesperson

Leslie Charleson was not only known for her acting prowess but also for her commitment to various charitable causes. According to Soaps.com, she embraced her role as a celebrity spokesperson for several important medical and health care initiatives, advocating for causes such as cystic fibrosis, breast cancer awareness, and AIDS-related charities. Her dedication to these issues demonstrates her compassion and desire to make a positive impact beyond the screen.