Leslie Charleson, best known for her portrayal of Monica Quartermaine on General Hospital, has passed away at the age of 79. Charleson first joined the beloved soap opera in 1977 and held the distinction of being its longest-tenured cast member. Throughout her career, she earned four Daytime Emmy nominations. General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini shared the news of her passing on Sunday, January 12, via the show’s official Instagram page.
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She was born on February 22, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri. Charleson’s career spanned decades, earning her a place as one of daytime television’s most enduring stars.Charleson began her acting career in the mid-1960s, making early appearances on popular TV series such as The Doctors and As the World Turns. Her breakthrough came in 1970 when she joined the cast of the primetime drama Love Is a Many Splendored Thing, where she played the role of Iris Donnelly Garrison until 1975.
In 1977, Charleson took on the role of Monica Quartermaine on General Hospital, a character that would become her defining role. As the ambitious cardiologist and matriarch of the Quartermaine family, Charleson portrayed Monica with complexity and charisma, earning critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Over the years, her storylines tackled everything from love triangles and family feuds to groundbreaking medical dramas, making her a central figure on the show.
Charleson’s work on General Hospital earned her four Daytime Emmy Award nominations, underscoring her exceptional talent and contribution to daytime television. In addition to her iconic soap opera role, Charleson made guest appearances on a variety of television shows, including Adam-12, Emergency!, and Diagnosis: Murder. She was also active in philanthropic efforts, often using her platform to raise awareness for causes close to her heart, including animal rescue and healthcare initiatives.
Charleson was married to Bill Demms from 1988 to 1991.
Rest in Peace.