Leslie Charleson’s Cause of Death Disclosed Following Her Passing

Leslie Charleson’s Cause of Death Disclosed Following Her Passing

The beloved star of “General Hospital,” Leslie Charleson, has had her cause of death confirmed. Fox News Digital reports that Charleson’s passing was due to “sequelae of blunt head trauma.”

Before her death, Leslie Charleson faced several health challenges. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office noted that she suffered from asthma, arthritis, atrial fibrillation, and normal pressure hydrocephalus.

Health Conditions Surrounding Charleson’s Passing

Normal pressure hydrocephalus is categorized as a brain disorder. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, this condition results from an accumulation of excess cerebrospinal fluid in the brain’s ventricles. This can lead to issues with thinking, reasoning problems, difficulties in walking, and loss of bladder control.

Charleson passed away on January 12 at the age of 79. This news came swiftly after Frank Valentini, the executive producer of “General Hospital,” shared the heartbreaking announcement on the show’s official Instagram account.

Industry Reaction to Charleson’s Death

In the heartfelt announcement, Valentini expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his dear friend and colleague. He remarked, “Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years on General Hospital alone, and just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaines, Leslie was a beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew.” He further lamented, “I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit, and incredible presence on set.” Her influence on the show remains irreplaceable.

A Lasting Legacy

Charleson’s career on “General Hospital” began in 1977. Over the years, she became an iconic presence, appearing in more than 2,000 episodes. Notably, she served as the longest-tenured cast member on the series, according to IMDb.

Beyond her role on “General Hospital,” Charleson also portrayed Dr. Monica Quartermaine in the spin-off series “General Hospital: Night Shift” and “Port Charles.” Her dedication to the craft of acting was evident throughout her extensive career.

Early Life and Career

Born on February 22, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri, Leslie Charleson began her journey in the entertainment industry during the 1960s. Early in her career, she appeared in notable television shows such as “As the World Turns” and “A Flame in the Wind.” She also gained recognition for her role as Mrs. Dorothy Kimber in an episode of the beloved series “Happy Days.”

Before leaving daytime television, Charleson captivated audiences by appearing in over 1,400 episodes of “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing.” She effortlessly transitioned to roles that showcased her remarkable talent and versatility as an actress.

Final Acting Credits

Leslie Charleson’s most recent television appearances included a memorable role as herself on the iconic sitcom “Friends” and a performance as a waitress in “The Return of the Muskrats.” Her ability to resonate with audiences across different formats highlights her exceptional range as an actress.

Remembering a Talented Performer

The legacy of Leslie Charleson is one marked by her unwavering dedication to her craft. She has left an indelible mark on the world of television and in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike. The impact she had on “General Hospital” and its viewers is undeniable.

Fans and colleagues continue to express their condolences and share memories of the actress during this challenging time. Leslie Charleson’s contributions to the entertainment industry will not be forgotten, and her spirit will surely resonate for years to come.

This report was contributed by Tracy Wright of Fox News Digital.