General Hospital star Leslie Charleson dead at 79 after 50 years and 2,000 episodes on beloved soap opera

Leslie Charleson, who is known for her decades-long career on the beloved soap opera General Hospital, passed away at the age of 79 on Sunday, January 12. 

The actress portrayed the character of Monica Quartermaine on the ABC series since first taking on the role back in 1977. 

A statement was uploaded to the show’s main Instagram account as executive producer, Frank Valentini, confirmed her death following a battle with a long illness, per Variety. 

‘It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson.’

He added that 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.’ 

Valentini emotionally continued, ‘I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit and incredible presence on set.’  

Leslie Charleson, who is known for her decades-long career on the beloved soap opera General Hospital, passed away at the age of 79 on Sunday, January 12; seen in 2019 in L.A. 

In conclusion, Frank wrote, ‘On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time.’ 

Upon hearing the news of Charleson’s passing, social media users and fans jumped to the comment section of the post to share their thoughts over the ‘heartbreaking’ update. 

One penned, ‘Rest in Peace! Leslie Charleson will always be Monica Quartermaine,’ while another shared, ‘Incredibly sad. a truly special character on the show. She was amazing.’ 

‘RIP she will be missed and FOREVER Monica Quartermaine!!!’ a follower wrote, while one added, ‘RIP Leslie Charleson. So sad. I grew up watching her on GH since the 1970’s.’ 

An Instagram user also expressed, ‘Oh this is heartbreaking news. Loved her & how she portrayed Monica. So sorry for this to GH.’ 

Another penned, ‘We all loved Monica. May she RIP. and may her memory be a blessing,’ while one added, ‘Icon and legend! Rest in Paradise!’  

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