Her death from a long illness at age 79, announced by executive producer Frank Valentini, has left fans frustrated that GH hasn’t addressed it, leaving Monica’s storyline to linger off-screen like a forgotten relic.
This causal attitude about a character who has been such a pillar of Port Charles for so many decades just doesn’t jive with the fan base.
With rumors swirling about Erika Slezak potentially joining as a new character or even Monica’s sister, and no formal farewell in sight, fans are growing vocal: is GH planning a send-off, or are they disrespecting Charleson’s legacy?
Fans Demand Closure for Monica’s Legacy
Leslie Charleson’s nearly 50-year run as Monica Quartermaine, a cornerstone of GH since 1977, ended with her last appearance in December 2023, and her January 2025 death has left fans fuming over the lack of on-screen acknowledgment.
Unlike other exits with tributes, Monica’s off-screen fade feels dismissive, especially after Charleson’s over 2,000 episodes.
Fans argue GH’s silence disrespects her matriarchal role. Will a new storyline finally bid her adieu, or is the delay a sign of neglect toward her real-life passing?
Erika Slezak Rumors Offer a Twist
Speculation about Erika Slezak, the One Life to Live icon, joining GH as Monica’s sister has fans debating a potential shift, especially with Monica’s absence stretching seven months.
Charleson’s death was after a lengthy battle with declining health, cutting her screen time in 2023, yet GH hasn’t woven her exit into the Quartermaine saga. Some see Slezak as a fresh face to honor Monica’s legacy, others have feared a recast would cheapen it.
Fortunately, it appears the writers have listened to the fans on that front and are not pitching Slezak to fill Monica’s shoes. Is GH stalling for a dramatic reveal, or testing fan patience with this limbo?
Will Monica’s Farewell Finally Arrive?
Seven months after Leslie Charleson’s death, General Hospital faces backlash for leaving Monica’s storyline unresolved, a stark contrast to the on-screen farewells of past icons.
This discontentment could amplify itself if GH handles Tristan Rogers’ (portrayer of Robert Scorpio) recent death in similar fashion.
Some fans are feeling it’s poor form to let her real-life passing linger without a fictional tribute. How do you feel? Has your patience run out yet?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments, and stay tuned for more GH news and spoilers to see if Slezak’s arrival or a send-off redeems GH’s approach.