Leslie Charleson, best known for her iconic role as Monica Quartermaine on General Hospital, has sadly passed away at the age of 79.
The beloved soap star, who appeared in over 2,000 episodes of the long-running ABC series, died on January 12, just a week after being hospitalized following a fall.
Now, new details have emerged about the cause of her death.
According to the Los Angeles County medical examiner’s report,
Charleson’s passing was attributed to “sequelae of blunt head trauma,” meaning complications from an earlier head injury.
While it remains unclear when she initially sustained the injury, reports indicate that she had suffered multiple falls in the past, which had already impacted her health and mobility.
A Legacy in Daytime Television
Charleson was a fixture on General Hospital for nearly five decades, first joining the soap in 1977. She quickly became a fan favorite as Dr. Monica Quartermaine, a character central to the Quartermaine family storyline. Her portrayal of the tough yet compassionate physician made her a household name, and she continued to play Monica in a recurring capacity until December 2023.
Throughout her time on the show, Charleson endured various health setbacks. In 2017, she took a temporary leave from General Hospital after injuring her leg in a fall, with actress Patty McCormack stepping in to portray Monica during her recovery. Despite these challenges, Charleson remained a beloved presence on set and continued to appear on the show whenever possible.
Health Struggles and Final Days
The death certificate obtained by TMZ reveals that, in addition to complications from blunt head trauma, Charleson had been battling normal pressure hydrocephalus—a condition that causes cerebrospinal fluid to build up in the brain. This disorder can lead to mobility issues, cognitive decline, and difficulty walking, which may have contributed to her history of falls.
The report also noted that Charleson had a history of asthma, arthritis, and atrial fibrillation, a heart condition that can lead to complications if not managed properly. While these underlying health issues may not have directly caused her passing, they likely played a role in her overall decline.
Tributes from the ‘General Hospital’ Family
Following the news of her death, General Hospital’s executive producer, Frank Valentini, shared a heartfelt tribute on the show’s official Instagram page.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson,” he wrote. “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. On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time.”
Fans and co-stars alike have taken to social media to honor Charleson’s legacy, remembering her not only as a talented actress but also as a kind and generous person who touched the lives of many.
A Lasting Impact on Daytime Television
Leslie Charleson’s contributions to General Hospital and the world of daytime television cannot be overstated. As Monica Quartermaine, she was part of some of the show’s most memorable storylines, including intense medical cases, dramatic family feuds, and emotional love affairs. Her performances earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan following that remained steadfast throughout her nearly 50-year run.
Her passing marks the end of an era for General Hospital, but her legacy will live on in the countless episodes she graced with her talent. While she may no longer be with us, Leslie Charleson’s impact on the soap opera world and her fans will never be forgotten.
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