Beloved "General Hospital" star Leslie Charleson, known for her five-decade portrayal of Monica Quartermaine, has had her cause of death publicly disclosed.
People reported that last month, on January 12, Charleson passed away at the age of 79. Recently, the cause was confirmed by the County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner as "sequelae of blunt head trauma."
Charleson, known for her enduring role on the daytime soap, passed away on January 12, leaving behind a rich legacy both on-screen and off.
The announcement comes a month after her death, and the details were first reported by TMZ, who obtained Charleson's death certificate.
In addition to the head trauma, she had several health challenges, including asthma, arthritis, atrial fibrillation, and a condition known as normal pressure hydrocephalus.
Charleson was a mainstay on "General Hospital," embodying the role of Monica Quartermaine since she took over the character in 1977. Her portrayal of Monica earned her both admiration and recognition for the complexity she brought to the role.
Her character was often seen as a "bad girl," which made her stand out in the dramatic world of Port Charles. She effortlessly navigated Monica's tumultuous relationships, most notably with Alan Quartermaine, played by Stuart Damon.
Beginning in 2010, Charleson's appearances on the show grew less frequent. Her dedication to the character was evident even in her early years on the show.
In a 1981 interview, Charleson described Monica's multi-dimensional personality, highlighting how much she enjoyed portraying the character's intricacies.
Whether it was Monica's devoted, yet sometimes over-the-top social inclinations or her passionate endeavors, Charleson found excitement in exploring such depth.
General Hospital's executive producer, Frank Valentini, shared words of remembrance and sorrow following her passing. "It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson," he expressed.
In his statement, Valentini emphasized how Charleson was pivotal both as Monica and as a central figure within the cast and crew. "Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years," he stated.
Valentini continued, "I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit and incredible presence on set.” His tribute underscored the bond that Charleson had cultivated over the years with her fellow actors and the overall team.
Reflecting on her career, Charleson once mentioned in a 2001 interview her affection for working on the show. "When you’re all good, you’re boring," she noted, adding that no one, aside from saints, embodies complete goodness. She enjoyed Monica because of the range the role allowed, letting her character form blend into the soap's various narratives.
"I really do love this job," Charleson mentioned, sharing her appreciation for the simplicity and fulfillment her role brought her daily.
"Look at it this way — what better job can you do than get up in the morning, roll out of bed, throw something on and then have someone take care of how you look and how you dress and what you say?"
Charleson's impact was felt both on and off-screen. She was not merely an actress on a soap opera; she was a friend and a respected figure in her field. Valentini, articulating the sentiments of many, extended sympathy to her loved ones, acknowledging the void her passing leaves behind.
As the General Hospital community and fans grapple with this news, they remember Leslie Charleson not only for her portrayal of Monica but also for her enduring charisma and vigor on the set.
