Soap opera luminary Leslie Charleson, renowned for her portrayal of Monica Quartermaine on “General Hospital,” passed away on Sunday morning after a protracted illness, at the age of 79.

“I am profoundly saddened to announce the passing of my cherished friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson,” remarked Frank Valentini, executive producer of “General Hospital.” “Her remarkable legacy has spanned nearly five decades on the show, and just as Monica was the cornerstone of the Quartermaine family, Leslie was an esteemed matriarch among the entire cast and crew. I will dearly miss our daily conversations, her sharp wit, and her larger-than-life presence on set. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones during this challenging time.”

Charleson, who became a fixture on the soap opera in 1977, faced several health challenges in recent years that limited her appearances on the ABC series, with her last on-screen presence in December 2023. Despite experiencing a series of falls that impaired her mobility, requiring the use of a walker, her indomitable spirit never waned. Last week, she was hospitalized following a particularly severe fall.

Born in Kansas City, Charleson embarked on her illustrious career in daytime television in 1964 at the tender age of 19, debuting in the short-lived ABC soap “A Flame in the Wind.” She later captivated audiences in CBS’s “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing” as the formidable Iris Donnelly Garrison, entangled in a love triangle. Through the 1970s, Charleson made guest appearances on numerous iconic primetime shows, including “The Rockford Files” and “Happy Days,” where she shared a memorable scene with Ron Howard, marking a notable moment in his early career.

In her 40-plus year tenure on “General Hospital,” Charleson’s character navigated one of daytime television’s most celebrated love triangles and endured harrowing personal tragedies, including a battle with breast cancer and the loss of three children. She received four Daytime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress, a testament to her profound impact on the soap opera genre.

Known for her kindness, fun-loving spirit, and unwavering loyalty, she forged deep connections not only with her colleagues but also with the show’s dedicated fan base, to whom she offered her heartfelt affection. As we remember Leslie Charleson, it is clear that her legacy will resonate in the hearts of many, and she will be dearly missed.