Leslie Charleson, the beloved actress who portrayed Monica Quartermaine on American soap opera General Hospital for nearly five decades, has died aged 79. The star passed away on Sunday morning after a long illness,

Leslie Charleson, who played popular character Dr. Monica Quartermaine for almost 50 years on “General Hospital,” has died, the program’s executive producer announced on Sunday.

Leslie Charleson -- who played Monica Quartermaine on the soap opera "General Hospital" for decades -- has died at the age of 79.

Leslie Charleson, best known for her long-time role on General Hospital, has died. She was 79. The actress's death was announced via a post on the official General Hospital Instagram, which featured a smiling picture of Charleson accompanied by words from executive producer Frank Valenti.

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

Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years on ‘General Hospital’ alone and just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaines,” Valentini writes. “Leslie was a beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew.