General Hospital spoilers and updates reveal this year has been memorable, packed with exciting storylines and changes in the cast.
Co-head writers Elizabeth Korte and Chris Van Etten shared with TV Insider they’re “gratified and humbled, the cast and crew have met and exceeded our expectations in every way and for every story.”
Leslie Charleson Passed Away On January 12-She And Monica Quartermaine Honored
In the midst of ongoing progress, highlighted by the return of One Life to Live veteran Erika Slezak, GH is also pausing to pay tribute to its history.
This month, the series will commemorate the legacy of Monica Quartermaine, following the passing of her actress, Leslie Charleson, who left us on January 12 of this year. “Leslie Charleson was cherished by everyone—cast, crew, and fans alike,” Korte and Van Etten express. “
As we say our goodbyes to her and to Monica, we believe there can be no half-hearted gestures,” the writers disclose. The show plans to go all out with not only a tribute episode, but an entire story arc.
Honoring Leslie’s Contribution, Grief Compounded With Tristan Rogers’ Death
“Paying tribute to Leslie’s impact on General Hospital and recognizing Monica’s role in Port Charles required more than just holding a funeral and reminiscing about the past.
Our aim was for Monica’s departure to spark a new narrative; to forge fresh connections on the canvas; to challenge her loved ones; and to deepen their bonds.
In this way, while Monica may no longer be with us — her legacy will resonate for years to come.” The sorrow of losing Charleson has been intensified by another recent tragedy: the passing of Tristan Rogers (Robert Scorpio) on August 15. “We are devastated by Tristan’s loss,” Korte and Van Etten express. “He embodied the ultimate General Hospital hero; Robert Scorpio was both daring and sensitive, passionate and vulnerable.”
A Tribute Is Planned For Tristan And Robert Scorpio As Well-But There Was More Loss This Year
The writers express that they feel “fortunate that he could make one final return, and that his scenes focused on broadening his Scorpio family.” They also intend to produce a tribute episode centered around Robert Scorpio in the future. “He is dearly missed, and our goal is to honor both Tristan and Robert in the same manner as we did for Leslie and Monica,” Korte and Van Etten share with TV Insider.
Even though this subject wasn’t touched on by Korte and Van Etten, Tristan and Leslie aren’t the only iconic GH actors to have died this year.
Denise Alexander (Lesley Webber) passed away March 5, the announcement coming in May, and Chris Robinson (Rick Webber) in June; keep checking here for any tribute updates for them.
