General Hospital
General Hospital’s Executive Producer Frank Valentini Previews, “There’s More Tribute to Come For Monica”
The cast and crew and behind the scenes creatives were deeply saddened when General Hospital’s longest tenured cast member, Leslie Charleson (Monica Quartermaine) passed away back on January 12th of this year.
While we have previously reported GH’s plans for its 62nd anniversary episode airing on Tuesday, April 1, which will include honoring Charleson when her character of Dr. Monica Quartermaine get a new cardiac wing named after her at the hospital, the soap’s executive producer, Frank Valentini shared with Variety, that even after that, there is more in store the.
Valentini teased, “There’s more tribute to come for Monica. But the opportunity presented itself that we would have the anniversary of the hospital be on the anniversary of the show. So it’s a little meta, but I think it’s great. And then to give the hospital a reason to celebrate, that’s how we came up with the the new wing for Monica, which is a really beautiful set. It’s pretty incredible.”
Photo: ABC
The ABC daytime drama will address the death of Monica Quartermaine and the passing of Charleson at a later date, as this anniversary episode was said to be written before the news of the fan favorite’s death.
During the April 1 anniversary episode, Sonny (Maurice Benard) and Laura (Genie Francis) remember those who have come and gone and been a vital part of the hospital including: Alan Quartermaine (Stuart Damon), Epiphany Johnson (Sonya Eddy), Bobbie Spencer (Jackie Zeman) and more.
“As much as we always want to go boldly into the future, I think you can’t go into the future without understanding where you’ve come from, or what the past has taught you,” shared Valentini. “And if there’s anything that it’s taught us, it’s that the hospital is a very interesting and exciting place for story to be told, and the lives and the stakes in the hospital are so much bigger.”
So, glad to hear that there are more plans to honor Leslie Charleson and her contributions for 47 years as Monica Quartermaine down the line? Comment below.
Happy to hear… but not looking forward to all the tears it will bring. GH tributes always are very touching and emotionally well done in honouring the passing of a cast member.
I most enjoyed the time Monica came to visit Tracy in the hospital, Tracy thinking she would die & be completely honest, told Monica, ” I Love you more than than anyone else in the world!” & began crying.. shortly after, Monica left the room..she had a hard time processing it, because she knew it was true..
After all there fights
Monica was great in that episode
I sure hope they show ample footage of the Alan and Monica wild make out sessions on the heels of one of their infamous marital fights. They were really a super soap couple without actually being called a super soap couple. They were classic!
I loved watching them. They were the most entertaining couple on daytime.
It would bring the house down! So to speak…
love that they honor the history of the show and remember all the departed cast members
Everything they do for Leslie (and Monica) will be beautiful but we’re always going to miss her.
She will be so miss Just don’t understand what took so long
This was written prior to Leslie Charleson’s passing. It’s not like she passed and they just pushed out scripts. That’s not how it works… even at this soap.
Leslie deserves to be honored immensely and forever! I will always remember Monica and Alan fighting!
They were an ideal couple, perfectly made for each other!
Been watching since day one. Saddened we lost Lesley but her tribute will be beautiful. Naming a wing after her is so appropriate and will keep her memory alive to all her fans. Rest in peace, Lesley, you are missed already.
I’ve been wondering when they were gonna honor her! I know it’s going to be a tear jerker. I’ll be sure to grab my box of tissues.
This was written prior to Leslie’s passing.
I have been a faithful fan of General Hospital since 1978. So many characters and storylines have come and gone since then. My mother’s favorite characters, besides Luke and Laura, were definitely Monica and Alan Quartermaine. In both of our opinions, they are central to what General Hospital is today. I am VERY happy to see that Dr. Monica Quartermaine will have a hospital wing named after her, definitely that episode (the 62nd anniversary show), and the episode where the entire cast will honor her in what will probably be the most saddest of episodes (those memorial episodes usually are as they should be). Leslie Charleson was a phenomenal actress. The name Monica Quartermaine will never be forgotten and neither will Leslie Charleson. RIP Leslie.
Wonderful news. A suggestion is to include Sasha Gilmore’s deceased husband’s name somewhere (Johnny ?” who sadly passed at a young age.
Ehh, the context here is legendary characters who were actually employed by the hospital itself. What happened to Johhny Wactor IRL was tragic, but “Brando Corbin” doesn’t fit in this context.
She’s been gone since January
I’m very happy that Monica will be honored in this way. She deserves this tribute. Condolences to her family friends and fans. Condolences as well for all who have passed. I really love GH Stars. God bless their souls and spirits to be protected as they transition to that Paradise where they will sleep for now. Until Jesus returns. In Jesus’s Mighty name I pray. Amen, Amen and Amen. ✝️❤️️➕➕➕⭐⭐
I think it’s ridiculous that they haven’t addressed her death yet. Monica is just up in a room dying all this time? Leslie has been the longest person on the show. The least they could do is address the fact that she is dead. They could then name the wing after her. That would make more sense and honor her life.
They don’t just snap their fingers and bam there’s a script. This episode was written before she passed. Then they tape 6 weeks in advance. When a cast member dies it takes time and planning. They have to see who they’d like to bring back and who could be available. With Monica for example they would want Ned there. But Wally Kurth also works on Days of our lives. So they’d have to be sure he’s available. Once they know that then it’s the planning and writing. Then the taping and editing. We dont want these rush. I don’t mind that Monica is still alive currently even though Leslie is not.
Did you read the story you’re commenting on? This is directly addressed:
The ABC daytime drama will address the death of Monica Quartermaine and the passing of Charleson at a later date, as this anniversary episode was said to be written before the news of the fan favorite’s death.
My mom started watching General Hospital when it was in black and white. I’ve only been watching for 30 something years. We love it, the story lines just keep drawing you in. We love all the actors. Let me tell you we shed some tears when the actors passed away. The best way to sum up GH is they feel like our family. I hope it never goes off air in my life time.
It would be nice if the character of Lesley Webber came back.
I would hope Denise Alexander as Lesley Webber would be included in a tribute to her longtime co-star Leslie Charleson and nemesis Dr. Monica Quartermaine. Those years with Alan and the Webber brothers were so well done. Soaps work best when past characters are remembered and included in current stories. As the World Turns was very good about that. GH remembers at anniversaries, but I wish some of the old guard would be featured more.
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
This week on all-new episodes of General Hospital, new and old motivations come into play with dangerous consequences. According to the just released GH video spoilers video for the week of August 3-7, a bailiff calls out, “All rise!”
Now it’s Isaiah (Sawandi Wilson) vs. Curtis (Donnell Turner), as the surgeon is suing the owner of the Savoy for assault that ruined is ability to operate. At the end of the day, which of these men has enough evidence against the other? Portia (Brook Kerr) is by Isaiah’s side, while Jordan (Tanisha Harper) is with Curtis.
Next, Lucy (Lynn Herring) has a plan to get the controlling shares of Deception away from Michael (Rory Gibson). She wants her daughter, Serena (Kelly Kruger) to seduce Michael. She tells her, “Pick out your most seductive suit.” Soon, we see Serena in her bathing suit at the Metro Court face to face with Michael.
Later, there is a small baggie containing three blue pills. Nina (Cynthia Watros) ask Willow (Katelyn MacMullen), “What did you do?” We also see Michael asking the same thing of Jacinda (Paige Herschell). Leading into this week, viewers know that Willow doesn’t want the former escort anywhere near her children, Amelia and Wiley. Is this how she stops her, or is Jacinda up to old tricks and wants to frame Willow? Remember when Jacindsa drugged Drew (Cameron Mathison)? Stay tuned.
Finally, in the pick-up from last Friday’s cliffhanger, an emotional Jason (Steve Burton) continues to tell Sonny (Maurice Benard) that he cannot work for him anymore. Sonny ask, “So that’s it? You’re Out?” We fade to black.
Take a look at the official GH spoilers for the week below.
MONDAY, AUGUST 3
Jason makes a sacrifice for Danny. Elizabeth becomes privy to a secret. Carly is touched. Valentin has a warning for Nina. Josslyn cautions Brennan.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4
Brook Lynn and Chase celebrate a milestone. Trina gets an earful. Carly’s plan backfires. Curtis is skeptical. Michael is anxious about his family’s’ future.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5
Sonny wants answers. Ava is struck with inspiration. Curtis’ trial begins. Brook Lynn wrestles with a big decision. Lucy and Serena scheme.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 6
Sonny makes a stunning announcement. Serena makes her move. Willow faces a new threat. Isaiah takes the stand. Lucy questions Laura.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7
Josslyn is taken aback. Ava courts a new ally. Jordan and Anna catch up. Isaiah vents to Lucas and Elizabeth. Michael questions Jacinda.
Check out the latest ABC promo for General Hospital entitled, “What Did You Do?” below.
Now weigh-in: Do you think GH is about to pair Serena with Michael? Is it curtains for Jacinda? Can anyone stop Willow once and for all, or make her pay for her crimes? What will Jason do without Sonny and the mob? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
General Hospital Fan Club Weekend brought out many of your favorites to the four day event; with the main cast gathering on Saturday, August 1. Fans near and far attended the weekend held this year at the Burbank Marriott Hotel. Whether it be the main cast event or the smaller more intimate events featuring two or three cast members a great time was had by all.
Some of the cast participating in the main cast event included: Cyrus Hobbi (Yuri), Gary James Fuller (James), Bradford Anderson (Spinelli), Viron Weaver (Wiley), Paige Herschell (Jacinda), Chris McKenna (Brennan), Josh Kelly (Cody), Kayden Brenna Tokarsi (Scout), Cassandra James (Terry), Laura Wright (Carly), Dominic Zamprogna (Dante), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane), Rick Hearst (Ric), Adrian Anchondo (ex-Marco), and Chloe Lanier (ex-Nelle).
In addition to, Van Hansis (Lucas), Cameron Mathison (Drew), Ryan Paevey (ex-Cassius), Easton Rocket Sweda (Leo), Maurice Benard (Sonny), Kristen Vaganos (Molly), Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis), Kate Mansi (ex-Kristina), Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth), Cynthia Watros (Nina), Kristina Wagner (Felicia) and more.
Take a look at some of the snaps from the main event arrivals below:
Photo: HutchinsPhoroi
GH’s Rick Hearst with on-screen daughter, Kristen Vaganos, plus Nancy Lee Grahn, and Kate Mansi.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
GH’s Maurice Benard on-hand to meet the fans.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto.com
Jack Brennan in the house … Chris McKenna.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Adrian Anchondo, Van Hansis and Anchondo’s boyfriend, Days of Our Lives, Colton Little.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
GH’s Josh Kelly and his gal, the former Nelle Benson of Port Charles, Chloe Lanier.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Who is James’ father? Not Cassius or Spinelli, actually. Actors Gary James Fuller, Ryan Paevey and Bradford Anderson!
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
One of General Hospital’s newest cast members, Kayden Brenna Tokarski attends her first GHFCW event.
Check out some more arrival images featuring: Laura Wright (Carly), Cassandra James (Terry), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane) and more in the gallery below.
Michael Fairman TV will be adding more images to this post in the day ahead.
So, were you glad to see so many of your GH favorites attending this year’s General Hospital Fan Club Weekend? Let us know via the comment section.
General Hospital
Vincent Pastore of ‘Sopranos’ Fame and ‘General Hospital’s’ Maximus Giambetti Dies at 80
Vincent Pastore, best known for his memorable role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on HBO’s The Sopranos has passed away.
The veteran actor was found dead on August 1st in his home in the Bronx, New York. Pastore was 80-years-old. The cause of death is yet to be determined.
As well as his role on The Sopranos, many soap fans will recall he played multiple smaller roles on the beloved One Life to Live from 1995 and 2004. However, in 2008, he landed the short-term role as Maximus Giambetti on General Hospital.
PASTORE WANTED TO BE ON GENERAL HOSPITAL
Maximus was the mobster father of Sonny Corinthos’ (Maurice Benard) bodyguards: Max (Derk Cheetwood) and Milo (Drew Cheetwood)
According to Soap Opera Digest, Pastore told Soaps In Depth back in 2009, after appearing in a SOAPnet promotional campaign as a celebrity fan of General Hospital: “‘I’d love to be on the show. So they called up GH’s casting director (Mark Teschner) and Bobby (Robert Guza Jr. ex-head writer, GH) and they wrote me in!”
Pastore was a huge General Hospital fan from way back, who at one point told producers that he would watch the ABC soap opera while working in bars and nightclubs in the 70s and 80s.
Throughout his decades long career, Pastore appeared in films including: Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way and Men of Respect, The Jerky Boys: The Movie and the 1996 HBO TV movie Gotti.
In TV, besides The Sopranos, Pastore’s credits included: Law & Order, The Practice, Son of the Beach, Queens Supreme, Hawaii Five-0, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, plus the miniseries The Last Don II. Most recently, Vincent was a series regular on Gravesend and guest starred on Yellowjackets.
Pastore is survived by his daughter, Renee, son-in-law and granddaughter.
Share your remembrances and condolences for Vincent Pastore on his memorable role on ‘The Sopranos’ and his time on ‘General Hospital’ via the comment section below.
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GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
‘General Hospital’ Fan Club Weekend 2026 (Photos)
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GH Alum Nicholas Alexander Chavez Lands Role in Paramount’s Remake of ‘Possession’
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GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
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