'General Hospital' star Leslie Charleson dies at age 79

Leslie Charleson, known for her role on General Hospital, has died at 79. The Emmy-nominated actress played Monica Quartermaine on the soap opera for nearly 50 years.

"It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson," series executive producer Frank Valentini confirmed on General Hospital's official Instagram account.

The cause of death of the actress, who has more than 2,000 episodes on the landmark series, was not specified.