‘General Hospital’ star Jacklyn Zeman dead at 70: ‘A bright light’
Beloved “General Hospital” star Jacklyn Zeman passed away this week. She was 70.
“Just like her character, the legendary Bobbie Spencer, she was a bright light and true professional that brought so much positive energy with her to work,” Executive Producer Frank Valentini said Wednesday in a statement on Twitter.
“Jackie will be greatly missed, but her positive spirit will always live on with our cast and crew. We send our heartfelt sympathy to her loved ones, friends, and family, especially her daughters Cassidy and Lacey.”
Known for her portrayal of character Bobbie Spencer on the hit soap, Zeman died after a short battle with cancer, her family told ABC News.
Zeman had several small roles before landing a regular role in the ABC soap opera “One Life to Live” in which she played the role of Lana McClain until 1977.
Later that year, she was nabbed the Bobbie Spencer role on “General Hospital.” She went on to appear in more than 800 episodes across 40 years, and earned an Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series Daytime Emmy nomination for her role as Nurse Spencer.
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“Jacklyn Zeman has been a beloved member of the ‘General Hospital’ and ABC family since she originated the iconic role of Bobbie Spencer over 45 years ago,” the show said on Twitter.
“She leaves behind a lasting legacy for her Emmy-nominated portrayal of the bad girl turned heroine and will always be remembered for her kind heart and radiant spirit.”
Zeman’s “General Hospital” co-stars mourned the iconic soap star’s death all over social media in emotional tributes.
“I am heartbroken to hear this news. One of the kindest people I have ever met. My deepest condolences to her family, friends and fans,” said Kathleen Gati, who stars as Dr. Liesl Obrecht.
Actor Parry Shen, who plays Brad Cooper on the show, described Zeman as a “down to earth” star and “absolute legend.”
“I loved hearing her stories about the show in the 70s & 80s,” Shen said. “Always so kind & down to earth. You will be so missed, Jackie. Condolences to her daughters, family & legions of fans who have loved Bobbie Spencer for decades.”
