General Hospital
GH’s Jane Elliot Opens Up on the Loss of Leslie Charleson as Tracy Mourns Monica Quartermaine, “Losing Her Was Like Losing an Arm”
On tomorrow’s Thursday, September 25 and Friday, September 26 episode of General Hospital, Port Charles, the Quartermaine family, and the viewers will say goodbye to the longest-running tenured character and actress on the ABC soap, when the funeral for Monica Quartermaine gets underway. As previewed, it will be filled with hankie-inducing moments, so prepare yourself to have a good cry.
The memorial service for Dr. Monica Quartermaine also serves as the vehicle to pay tribute to the unforgettable Leslie Charleson, who sadly passed away earlier this year in January. Charleson became the second actress to play the role of Monica and made her debut on GH back in 1977. In recent years, her failing health precluded her from appearing on the show, but the GH writers kept the character alive off-screen and upstairs at the Q mansion.
That all changed, when the soap opera decided to craft a proper goodbye and use Monica’s passing as a way to kick-off another major storyline – Erika Slezak’s arrival on Friday! Now, the elusive Jane Elliot, who over the past week has once again illustrated why she has no peer on the current daytime canvas, spoke with Variety about her close bond with Leslie Charleson over decades, and what the loss of her long-running scene-partner and former Quartermaine sister-in-law Monica Quartermaine has meant for her.
Courtesy/ABC
As Tracy, Elliot’s character was one of the last ties to Monica, other than her two adoptive sons, Jason (Steve Burton) and Drew (Cameron Mathison). Jane shared on how this storyline had dredged up the same feelings as she went through when her pal Leslie Charleson passed.
“Leslie left two voids in my life,” Elliot shared. “She left a void as an acting partner and a friend. Leslie and I knew each other for 60 years.” Jane added, “She was an integral part of my life. It’s hard enough to mourn somebody’s death once, but then to do it again. One was obviously the person, and the other was the character, but at a certain point they blended. You know, Monica was Leslie, and Leslie was Monica. I had shared experience with Monica, and I had shared experience with Leslie, so she left me twice.”
Photo: JPI
General Hospital fans know that Monica was the love of Tracy’s late brother, Alan Quartermaine, played by the late Stuart Damon. Often Monica and Alan would cheat on each other, but often found their way back to one another. Tracy had always thought her brother married beneath him when he married Monica, who was a successful surgeon at GH. However things eventually changed.
Jane explained. “Tracy had evolved over the years and was a more substantive human being and had gone through the heartbreak of losing Luke twice, and she developed a fuller personality. Because of that, she could see Monica’s weight and respected her for it.”
Photo: ABC
Now as Monica’s funeral approaches, the family is concerned if Tracy can make it through it and show up for it! “It’s a huge loss for her (Tracy),” shares Elliot. “All of her contemporaries are gone. Her mother, her father, her brother, Luke, Gregory, I mean, Monica was it. They were the last two standing hand in hand, side by side. So losing her was like losing an arm.”
What do you think about the comments made by Jane on her longtime beloved co-star Leslie Charleson and how Tracy feels about losing Monica? Are you ready to pay tribute to Leslie Charleson and say goodbye to Dr. Monica Quartermaine? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
To me, she is the heart and soul of the show. Lila and Edward would be proud.
“They were the last two standing hand in hand, side by side.” Very well said Jane Elliot. I know exactly what she means. I was a regular GH viewer from day one until 2005 and enjoyed all the antics of the Quartermaine family. Plus, I followed Leslie Charleson from her time on Love is a Many Splendored Thing and her episodic TV career. Thursday and Friday are going to be rough days.
Side note…Interested to know (not sure if you’d revealed) what made you stop watching in 2005? Was it the mob focus or something else?
I also took a break for part of that decade but would come back for the bigger events.
Steve, I humbly insert myself into this conversation only to add that my faithful daily GH viewing is similar to that of Llanviewer717 (mine, 1969-2005). For me, it was definitely the unrelenting focus on Sonny and the mob storyline, which continues to this day, that led to my decision to give it up. Over the years, I have returned only for special episodes or briefly for a return of a beloved character (e.g., Laura). I will be watching the sendoff for Monica (Leslie Charleson).
James – I always appreciate your insights.
I started around 1977 through a good part of the 90s. I was sporadic through the aughts. Came back after JFP and Guza were let go. Left for a bit after Ron killed AJ for the last time. Was going to depart again towards the end of Ron’s period but then they announced his departure, so I stuck it out.
Hoping these episodes (and Slezak’s guest stint) bring back viewers for a good storyline.
Thank you, Steve. Nice to hear about your (as well as Llanviewer717’s) viewing habits — and likewise, your observations. Slezak’s appearances will no doubt be valued. As we all cherish our favorite Monica moments and other beloved storylines and characters…
That is exactly why I stopped watching. I was sick of Mob Hospital. After One Life to Live was cancelled, I’d drop in when Llanview citizens like Nora Buchanan or Blair Cramer made guest appearances. I did not watch regularly when Todd and Starr and John became Port Charles residents. All I remember from that era was when TPTB killed Cole and Hope.
Kudos to Variety for getting the notoriously press-shy Elliot to reveal so much. Wow, did anyone really know that she and LC were so close? You have to feel for Jane when she stated it feels like she’s mourning Leslie all over again.
So glad the TV academy is giving Jane her flowers. Look forward to the acceptance speech of one of the best daytime performers of all time.
Well said.
I love Jane Elliot as Tracy. Legacy character/vet. I couldn’t have been happier GH-wise when we learned that she was on for the long haul. But I always fear, now that all her sparring Q family are gone, that Jane might be tempted to leave again. GH really messed up when they gave Gregory such a horrible disease. He and Tracy were so great together; like Edward and Lila in reverse. He would’ve have added so much to the Q home if the two had married. As for the last standing…it’s Tracy, NED, and Jason. I truly can’t believe how rarely Wally Kurth is on the show. With Tracy, Ned, and Jason, all living in the same house, I was hoping they’d bring back Dillon, and Lois would still be around and the Qvhouse might come alive again. Instead, Jason’s barely in the house and “Ned,” as said, is very rarely on the show. .
Wasted opportunity when they could have revitalized the remaining characters in family scenes. If they could bring Britt back, I’d throw out my disbelief and would love them to bring AJ back again (Carlivati should have never killed him off for such petty behind the-scenes bull). Seeing that Q house with Tracy, Ned, Jason, AJ, Dillon….and Yuri should be on; he’s so fun as security…then bring another female peer for Tracy to snark with. I was hoping that’s the role Erika would have filled if she was staying on…that she’d inherit the house; live in the house with her newfound family. And come on… more Ned!
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.
Lucas Adams and Tamara Braun Written Out of The Young and the Restless
Rosie O’Donnell Says She Will Return to ‘The View’ During its Season 30
WWE SummerSlam 2026 Night Two: Top 5 Takeaways
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
‘General Hospital’ Fan Club Weekend 2026 (Photos)
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Katie is Disowned By The Logan Sisters
GH Alum Nicholas Alexander Chavez Lands Role in Paramount’s Remake of ‘Possession’
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Reveals His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy-Nominated Reel Did Not Contain Monica’s Funeral
‘General Hospital’ Ethan Lovett Recast: Christian Howard Replaces Nathan Dean
‘General Hospital’ Alum Colin Cassidy to Appear in Ryan Murphy’s ‘The Shards’
Lucas Adams and Tamara Braun Written Out of The Young and the Restless
Rosie O’Donnell Says She Will Return to ‘The View’ During its Season 30
WWE SummerSlam 2026 Night Two: Top 5 Takeaways
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL Preview: Katie is Suspicious of Dylan and Warns Will, Steffy Takes Off to Monaco
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