Soap Opera Legend Leslie Charleson Dies at 79

Leslie Charleson, 79, died after nearly five decades as Dr. Monica Quartermaine on General Hospital. She died on January 12, 2025, ending an extraordinary chapter in daytime television history. Fans, colleagues, and loved ones mourn her loss.

On General Hospital’s Instagram, executive producer Frank Valentini announced the news. “It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson,” Valentini wrote. Leslie brought Monica Quartermaine, the family’s heart, to life for nearly 50 years. Leslie was loved off-screen by the cast and crew. Her quick wit, daily conversations, and warmth on set will be missed. We at General Hospital offer our deepest condolences to her family and friends during this heartbreaking time.”

Charleson, who joined General Hospital in 1977, had been struggling with mobility issues from multiple falls. Her death cause is unknown, but reports say she was hospitalized a week before after a fall. Charleson persevered and pursued her craft. Her last show appearance was in December 2023, demonstrating her dedication under personal pressure.

Leslie Charleson, born February 22, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri, was raised by supportive and creative parents. Her father’s publishing executive career and her neighbor’s ABC connections helped her break into the entertainment industry.

Her acting career began in 1964 on the short-lived soap A Flame in the Wind. Her talent blossomed on As the World Turns. Charleson was a talented and captivating actress before joining General Hospital.

Her early soap opera mentor, Roy Poole, told her not to worry about millions of viewers or her hand movements, she said in a 1993 interview. “At first, I didn’t know what to do with my hands,” she laughed. “But his advice helped me settle into my roles, and I stopped overthinking it.”

Charleson’s Monica Quartermaine was heartfelt storytelling. Monica endured family drama and life-threatening illnesses onscreen. Monica’s 1994–2000 breast cancer storyline was one of her most powerful.

“We wanted to portray the experience as authentically as possible,” Charleson told co-star Maurice Benard in 2022. Having breast cancer-afflicted writers and a producer made it a personal project for everyone. I even visited wellness centers to experience patient life. Getting it right was crucial.”

Charleson received four Daytime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 1980, 1982, 1983, and 1995 for her remarkable career. Beyond General Hospital, she appeared in Woman on the Ledge with Deidre Hall and Colleen Zenk in 1993. She played Monica in Port Charles and General Hospital: Night Shift spinoffs.

Charleson credited her longevity to her love of storytelling and her relationships in a 2019 interview. “I’ve always been interested in the material and the people I work with,” she said. “I’m one of the few General Hospital actors who hasn’t worked on another soap. I call this home.”

Charleson’s influence on daytime television and viewers’ hearts remains as fans and colleagues honor her. She pioneered and infused her roles with depth and authenticity.

Leslie Charleson’s family, friends, and General Hospital community are in our prayers. Peace to her.