As General Hospital's cast, crew and viewers mourn the great loss of Leslie Charleson, who passed away at the age of 79 on January 12, Soap Opera Digest dug deep into its archives to trace the

General Hospital’s Leslie Charleson, who was with the series for almost five decades, has died, executive producer Frank Valentini confirmed.

General Hospital actress Leslie Charleson’s cause of death has been revealed following her death at the age of 79. The star – who was the longest serving member of cast until her departure – arrived in the show as Doctor Monica Quartermaine way back in 1977.

Longtime General Hospital star Leslie Charleson died at the age of 79, the show's executive producer announced on Sunday2. "It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague,

Ms. Charleson played Dr. Monica Quartermaine, a cardiologist and family matriarch, on the daytime series for 46 years.

Leslie Charleson, who played cardiologist Monica Quartermaine on "General Hospital" for five decades, has died, according to the soap opera's producer. She was 79.

Leslie Charleson, who played Dr. Monica Quartermaine on "General Hospital" for nearly 50 years, has passed away at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy of enduring love and respect from her fans and colleagues.