Leslie Charleson from General Hospital hospitalized after a severe fall shortly before passing away.

Leslie Charleson, renowned for her portrayal of Monica Quartermaine on General Hospital, faced numerous health challenges in the years leading up to her passing at the age of 79.

She was rushed to the hospital last week following a severe fall. The beloved actress passed away shortly after, though her official cause of death has yet to be disclosed. Over recent years, Leslie dealt with multiple illnesses and frequent falls, which significantly impacted her mobility, requiring the use of a walker. Her health issues began in 2017 after a fall while walking her dog, resulting in a leg injury that caused her to miss two months of filming. During her absence, Patty McCormack temporarily stepped into her role.

In October 2023, it was announced by General Hospital executives that Leslie would likely not return to the show, with her final appearance airing in December 2023.

Her passing was confirmed by General Hospital Executive Producer Frank Valentini, who shared a heartfelt tribute on X (formerly Twitter). "It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson," Valentini wrote. "Her legacy spans nearly 50 years on General Hospital, and just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaines, Leslie was the beloved matriarch of our cast and crew. I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit, and her incredible presence on set. On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, my heartfelt condolences go out to her loved ones during this difficult time." He concluded the message with his signature.

Fans responded to Valentini's post with an outpouring of condolences, sharing their grief and memories of Leslie. One fan commented, "I’m so sorry to hear of Leslie Charleson’s passing. May she rest in peace." Another wrote, "This is heartbreaking. I’ve been watching GH since 1979. I feel like I’ve lost a family member. My prayers go out to her family." A third added, "My deepest sympathies to you, Frank, the entire General Hospital cast and crew, and Leslie's family. A true icon and GH institution, she will be deeply missed. I hope 'Monica' receives a proper GH send-off and remembrance."