General Hospital
General Hospital Stars Attend ‘Celebration of Life’ in Memory of Leslie Charleson
When Leslie Charleson (Monica Quartermaine), the longest-tenured cast member of General Hospital, passed away back on January 12th of this year, it was a heartbreaking loss for the show, its fans and Leslie’s co-stars, friends, and colleagues.
Charleson, died at the age of 79, to which the Los Angeles medical examiner’s office deemed as her cause of death “sequelae of blunt head trauma.” Leslie had taken several falls over recent years, so it may have been attributed to a prior injury.
Over the weekend, several of Leslie’s longtime friends and cast members, attended a “Celebration of Life” in her honor in Los Angeles, California including: Finola Hughes (Anna), Ian Buchanan (ex-Duke), Lisa LoCicero (Olivia) and Lynn Herring (Lucy).
Photo: IBuchananIG
Taking to her Instagram, Finola Hughes honored Leslie by expressing,”Beautiful celebration of this wonderful woman. The stories about Lester’s generosity and kindness and above all her fun loving way of life. Her love of animals, her horses, her joy in acting. It was touching to bring her two worlds together for an afternoon, her GH family and her equestrian friends 💕 rip sweet Lester, we love you”
Ian Buchanan shared, “A Wonderful Celebration for a Glorious Friend.❤️❤️❤️” Lisa LoCicero responded to Ian’s post and noted, “Always great to see you Ian.. and a perfect celebration of a beautiful soul..❤️❤️❤️
Photo: JPI
Charleson played Monica Quartermaine for 47 years on the ABC daytime drama series and debuted on the soap back in 1977 replacing Patsy Rahn in the part. The beloved actress last appeared on-screen on GH in an episode back in December of 2023. In October of 2024, it was announced that Leslie would unlikely ever return in the role, but with the understanding she would not be recast.
It was back on January 12th that GH executive producer, Frank Valentini broke the news of Leslie’s passing on X, sharing, “It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague. Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years on General Hospital alone and, just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaine family, 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.”
Share your thoughts on Finola Hughes, Ian Buchanan and others touching words from the celebration of life in honor of the late Leslie Charleson via the comment section below.
Lovely words for a lovely lady, and what looks like a fitting celebration of Leslie’s life. I’m interested to see how and when GH deals with her death on the show. Monica deserves an ending as good as the one they gave Jackie Zeman/Bobbie.
Great to see Ian Buchanan looking well and impeccably dressed, as always. I’ll never forgive them for killing off Duke Lavery.
Blame Ron C, all his fault, poor writer couldn’t figure out how to honor legacy!
It is interesting how he brought both AJ and Duke back from the dead only to kill thrm off permanently when pettiness got in the way.
I know Ron wrote the story, but I honestly blame Frank more. He’s the one that made the decision to fire Ian, and get rid of a beloved legacy character. If you’re going to do something like that, it better be a damn good story, and that one certainly was not. It still pisses me off 10 years later.
I wish they would recast the role. I don’t think Leslie would mind her character going on. They could finally let her out of her room. It would be fun to see Tracy put in her place. I can see Monica coming down the steps saying “shut up Tracy”. Of course not just anyone could play her. How about Susan Lucci??
Leslie had an agreement with Frank Valentini that the role would not be recast, nor should it be. Some roles you don’t recast because they were such iconic characters played by an iconic actor. The same way they didn’t recast Bobbie when Jackie Zeman died, they didn’t recast Lila when Anna Lee died, they didn’t recast Steve Hardy when John Beradino died, they didn’t recast Luke with Tony Geary retired, and so on, and so forth. Leslie’s Monica is in that realm of all-time GH chatacters, and no one should or will ever play her again.
But, GH recasted Edward Quartermaine! The original actor was very iconic.
David Lewis (Edward #1) had retired once before and came back to do voice overs as a ghost talking to Lila. He was convinced to come back on camera for a few years. He retired for the final time 15 years after he first appeared.
Leslie has been on the show 47 years. A major difference.
Icon character is the subject at hand… Not the years spent in a role by an acto/actress.
I agree, about the OG Edward Q… he left GH due serious health issues… the show recasted this iconic actor.
Tony Geary as mentioned… retired.
My the point is, it’s not always about an iconic actor/actress whom passes away in real life which determines whether a recast will or will not happen.
OG Edward and TG are examples of that, too.
David Lewis was very iconic as the first Edward Quartermaine, absolutely no question. But he was on the show for 15 years, not 40+ years. That’s the difference in a role that you can recast, and one that you can’t. Or I guess shouldn’t would be a better word.
Absolutely not Theresa Anderson. I love Susan Lucci but she is wrong for that character. Besides, Monica should not be recast. Lesile Charleson put the indelible stamp on that character and should never be replaced. RIP dear Lesile. We love you!!!!!!!!!
Guessing that you’re not a long time soap fan. You don’t recast someone who played the character for 47 years!
And no, Lucci would never consider taking the place of another soap icon. Would anyone accept a different actress as Erica Kane? No. Monica will pass in story by mid year.
She was one of the reasons I watched General Hospital. I am a long time watcher of the show.
They will not recast in honor of her and I respect that sorry she was so ill for so long
Her character should never be recasted. You don’t play a role for over 40 years to be replaced. Someone mentioned they replaced Edward but it was only with David Lewis permission and he had not played that role as long as Lila, Alan, Monica or Tracy has/had. No one would replace Tracy. it simply would never be the same!
Do you not proof read? Who is Lester???? Several times you called Leslie a man. Not nice.
Well, you should have explained that in your article. Bad on you. THAT was your mistake.
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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