JPI/CRAIG SJODIN/ABC/JPI
In Tribute: Leslie Charleson with (from left) GH co-stars Natalia Livingston (ex-Emily), Sean Kanan (ex-AJ), and John J. York (Mac).
Leslie Charleson,the beloved actress best known for her iconic role as Monica Quartermaine on General Hospital,passed away at the age of 79. Born on February 22, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri, charleson began her television career in 1964 with a role on the ABC soap opera A Flame in the Wind. Her journey in the world of daytime television reached new heights in 1976 when she joined the cast of General Hospital, a role she portrayed with grace and depth until her final appearance in December 2023.
Following the news of her passing, tributes poured in from her co-stars and colleagues, each sharing heartfelt memories of the woman who left an indelible mark on their lives and careers.
“Dear Leslie 💕 I’m going to need a minute and I’ll write something about this lovely, funny, clever woman. But right now, dear leslie rip we love you 💕 🕊️” – Finola Hughes (Anna)
“Leslie Charleson and Stuart Damon ‘Alan and Monica’…the reason I fell in love with GH when I was in college, thank you for talent, your humor, your friendship! Love you both very much♥️” – John J. York (Mac)
“We lost our radiant ‘Ultrabrite girl’ yesterday. Leslie, I hope there are some amazing horse trails where you are. You will always be with us in spirit. ❤️” – Kristina Wagner (Felicia)
“My friend and castmate, Leslie Charleson took flight today. She battled and survived a multitude of health challenges in the last couple of years like a goddamned warrior. This badass was a General Hospital icon, whipper snapper, savvy, talented, gorgeous, grounded, horse whispering, world class woman. It was an honor to know her and love her. #Gh” – Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis)
“I am so fortunate that I had one more scene with Leslie when I came back to @generalhospital. My memories of GH have her fingerprints all over me. I loved her. She will be so greatly missed.” – Rena sofer (Lois)
“Rest in peace Leslie Charleson 🥲 grateful to have had the opportunity to learn so much from her while I was starting my run on General Hospital. Watching her work with Stuart Damon,a.k.a. Alan Quartermaine, and John Ingle [ex-Edward] was a joy for me, especially when I was included in the scenes, but even when I wasn’t. The Q’s always made me laugh. Her timing was legendary. Sending my condolences to her friends, family, fans, and all of her co-workers 🕊️ #lesliecharleson” – Sarah Joy Brown (ex-Carly, ex-Claudia)
Leslie Charleson’s legacy extends far beyond her on-screen performances. She was a trailblazer in the soap opera genre, captivating audiences with her portrayal of Monica Quartermaine for nearly five decades. Her ability to balance strength and vulnerability made her character a fan favorite, and her contributions to General Hospital helped shape the show into the cultural phenomenon it is indeed today.
As the entertainment world mourns her loss, fans and colleagues alike celebrate the life of a woman who brought so much joy and inspiration to those who knew her, both on and off the screen. leslie Charleson’s memory will live on through her timeless performances and the countless lives she touched throughout her remarkable career.
Remembering Leslie Charleson: A Legacy of Kindness and Talent
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Leslie Charleson, a beloved actress best known for her iconic role as Dr. Monica Quartermaine on General Hospital. Tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and fans, all celebrating her remarkable career and the warmth she brought to everyone she met.
A Life Well-Lived
Leslie Charleson’s passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, both on and off the screen.Known for her kindness and professionalism, she was a pillar of the soap opera community for decades. Her portrayal of Monica Quartermaine earned her a special place in the hearts of viewers, making her one of the most enduring figures in daytime television.
Tributes from Colleagues
Nathan Varni, Executive Director of Current Programming for ABC Television, shared his heartfelt condolences on social media: “Sad news, #GeneralHospital legend, @lesliecharleson has passed away. Brilliant actress but more importantly,one of the nicest in the business who always greeted anyone in her orbit with a big smile and open arms.The world will miss you, Leslie. RIP. 💔”
Michele Val Jean,former co-head writer of General Hospital and creator of Beyond The Gates,also expressed her grief: “And to cap this horrific week… RIP,Leslie 💔”
Natalia Livingston,who played Leslie’s on-screen daughter Emily,shared a touching tribute on Instagram: “I’m heartbroken to hear of the passing of Leslie Charleson. Leslie was the most marvelous TV mom I could have ever had.I admired and enjoyed her humor, wit, and warmth. Thank you for always making me feel so welcomed into our TV family. I’ll never forget you. May you rest in peace, dear Leslie.I love you.”
Memories from the Cast
Marc Anthony Samuel, who worked alongside Leslie as Felix, commented: “Oh no! She was such a sweet lady. I’m glad I got a chance to work with her.”
Bonnie Burroughs, who played gladys, added: “She was so kind to me the few times I met her. What a gorgeous soul 🥺”
Jen Lilley, known for her roles on Days of Our Lives, simply said: “Oh no. What a gem.”
Condolences from Across the Industry
The official account of The Young and the Restless shared their sympathies: “Our condolences to the @GeneralHospital family. One of the kindest and sweetest colleagues we’ve had the honor to work with. May @lesliecharleson rest in peace and know how deeply she was loved and appreciated by all. Deepest condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and fans. #lesliecharleson 💔”
Sean Kanan, who played Leslie’s on-screen son AJ, reflected on their time together: “I just learned that Leslie Charleson has passed. We played mother and son off and on for years.My deepest condolences to her family. May you rest in peace, Leslie. #GeneralHospital #GH #LeslieCharleson #MonicaQuartermaine”
A Legacy of love and laughter
Leslie Charleson’s impact extended far beyond her role on General Hospital. her kindness, generosity, and talent touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. As fans and colleagues alike remember her, it’s clear that her legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Rest in peace, leslie Charleson. Your light will never fade.
Remembering Leslie Charleson: A Tribute from the Soap Opera Community
The soap opera world is mourning the loss of Leslie Charleson, a beloved actress whose talent and generosity left an indelible mark on the industry. As tributes pour in from colleagues and fans alike, her legacy continues to inspire those who knew her and those who admired her work from afar.
Heartfelt Tributes from Co-Stars and Friends
Kate Linder, known for her role as Esther on Young and Restless, shared her grief on Instagram.She wrote,“My heart goes out to the family,friends,and coworkers of @lesliecharleson_official. #ithasbeenanhonor #tohaveknownher #sotalented❤️ #sogiving #shewillbesorelymissed @generalhospitalabc @youngandrestlesscbs.” Her words reflect the deep respect and admiration many felt for Leslie.
Crystal Chappell, who has graced the screens of Days of Our Lives, One Life to Live, and Guiding Light, also expressed her condolences. “Sending my heartfelt condolences to the General Hospital family and the family of Leslie Charleson! I was such a huge fan and will hold them in my prayers. 🙏❤️,” she tweeted. Chappell’s message underscores the widespread impact Leslie had on her peers.
tracey E. Bregman, who plays Lauren on Young and Restless, added her voice to the outpouring of love. Commenting on a colleague’s post, she wrote, “Oh I’m so so sorry honey. Much love to you, the GH family and Leslie’s family and friends ❤️❤️.” her words capture the collective sorrow felt by the soap opera community.
A Legacy of Talent and Kindness
Leslie Charleson’s career spanned decades, during which she became a cornerstone of General hospital. Her portrayal of Monica Quartermaine earned her a place in the hearts of millions. Beyond her on-screen achievements, Leslie was known for her generosity and dedication to her craft. Her passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by fans and colleagues alike.
as the soap opera community comes together to honor her memory,the tributes serve as a testament to the profound impact she had on those around her. Leslie Charleson’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and fans, ensuring that her spirit lives on.
Final Thoughts
In times of loss, the strength of a community shines brightest. The heartfelt messages from Kate Linder, Crystal Chappell, and Tracey E. Bregman remind us of the bonds forged through shared experiences and mutual respect. Leslie Charleson’s contributions to the world of soap operas will not be forgotten, and her memory will continue to bring comfort to those who loved her.
