Leslie Charleson, renowned for her nearly five-decade portrayal of Dr. Monica Quartermaine on the beloved soap opera “General Hospital,” has sadly passed away at the age of 79. The devastating news was announced by the show's executive producer, Frank Valentini, on a heartfelt message shared on Sunday.

“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 incredible presence on set,” Valentini expressed. “My heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time.”

Charleson first took on the role of Dr. Monica Quartermaine in 1977, stepping into the shoes of the character from original actress Patsy Rahn. Her portrayal resonated deeply with fans and became a cornerstone of the show's narrative for decades.

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Charleson began her acting career in childhood, gaining traction with her role in the ABC daytime series “A Time for Us.” She also made waves on “As the World Turns” and “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing,” where she earned her first Emmy nomination for her role as Iris Donelly Garrison.

In addition to her soap opera work, Charleson enjoyed a varied career that spanned commercial appearances and guest spots on iconic shows such as “Happy Days,” “Ironside,” and “The Rockford Files.” Notably, she shared an unforgettable moment in television history when she gave Ron Howard his first on-screen kiss on “Happy Days.”

While her career was diverse, it was her role on “General Hospital” that solidified her status as a television icon. In a 2020 interview, she reflected on a poignant breast cancer storyline that deeply impacted her and her audience. “At the time, ‘General Hospital’ had a strong female administration, and each one of us had been touched by breast cancer in our own lives. It was exhausting and incredibly difficult work, but the response to the storyline was truly humbling,” she recounted.

Beyond her acting, Charleson was a passionate advocate for various charities related to breast cancer, cystic fibrosis, and AIDS, showcasing her devotion to making a difference in the lives of others.

Throughout her years on the show, she developed a strong connection with her fans. “’General Hospital’s’ fans are fiercely loyal, and I think, because these characters appear in their homes each weekday, they truly feel a connection to us personally," she once noted, highlighting the unique bond that existed between her and her audience.

Even up until her recent appearances, Charleson continued to make her mark on the show, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and resilience. Her contributions to television and her enduring spirit will be missed by many as fans and colleagues remember her remarkable journey in the entertainment industry.