A tribute from Denise Alexander
We remember the late Jacklyn Zeman, who died unexpectedly on May 9 following a brief fight with cancer, with sorrowful hearts. We said goodbye to a dear friend and coworker, just three days after she celebrated her 70th birthday, and less than two weeks after her last General Hospital episode aired on April 27.
The actress who played Dr. Lesley Webber on General Hospital, Denise Alexander, wrote a poignant letter to Zeman. She shared priceless memories of their friendship along with her expression of profound sadness. “Oh girl, I keep hearing your laugh and crying, and I just can’t stop.” Your kindness, wit, intelligence, and beautiful goodness have always been appreciated and loved by me.
The best hugs as well. Alexander wrote, “I love you and I always will.” On May 15, these lovely sentiments were originally shared with Soap Hub.
Jacklyn Zeman joined the General Hospital cast in 1977 as Nurse Bobbie Spencer, and Denise Alexander joined in 1973 as Dr. Lesley Webber. They became quite close both off and on camera throughout the years. Their relationship served as evidence of the unique bonds that developed amongst the cast of the show.
While not all of Alexander’s former co-stars paid tribute to Zeman in public, actor Anthony Geary, who played Luke Spencer, made a noteworthy contribution. Only a few days after Zeman’s death, on May 11, Geary sent TVLine an exclusive message.
He complimented her on her professionalism as well as the unusual lack of negativity in her presence. She never once mentioned any actor, crew member, or colleague negatively in my ears.
Jackie never once made fun of someone in front of me, in actuality. In a fiercely competitive field where ego, sentiments, and emotions are vital, I’ve found this quality to be exceedingly rare’, Geary stated. It speaks volumes about Zeman’s personality and the influence she had on people around her.
The first person to leak Zeman’s death news was executive producer of soap operas Frank Valentini. She was a source of great energy on the set, a true professional, and a brilliant light, according to him. Her positive outlook will live on forever, even though her absence will be greatly missed.
Online, as word of Zeman’s passing spread, condolences began to stream in. Her 70-year-old actress’s compassion and upbeat attitude, even in difficult circumstances, were praised by her General Hospital TV family as they lamented her passing. Her legacy will always be appreciated.
Zeman’s on-screen daughter Carly Spencer was portrayed by Laura Wright, who thanked him for their time together. Wright said of Zeman that he was a magnificent man with an infectious enthusiasm, a beautiful soul, and an amazing life. She posted her sincere homage to Instagram.
Actress Tamara Braun, who also portrayed Carly, participated in paying tribute to Zeman. She posted a tribute on Instagram, expressing astonishment and sadness and wishing she could hug Zeman and laugh with him once more. Braun highlighted their sincere and authentic interactions, underscoring the depth of their relationship.
To honour Zeman, even former co-stars got in touch. The first actress to play Zeman’s daughter on General Hospital, Sarah Joy Brown, posted a heartfelt remembrance. She conveyed her sorrow on behalf of everyone who looked after Zeman, describing him as lovely on the inside as well as the outside. Brown acknowledged Zeman’s influence on her career and way of life.
Jacklyn Zeman has left a loving, strong, and caring legacy. Though her physical presence will be sorely missed, those who knew and admired her will always carry her spirit with them. We pay tribute to her memory with love and gratitude as we say goodbye to a truly amazing talent..