Farewell to Denise Alexander: Beloved ‘General Hospital’ and ‘Days of Our Lives’ Star Passes Away at 85

Soap opera icon Denise Alexander, known for her roles on General Hospital and Days of Our Lives, passed away at 85. She made a significant mark in the soap industry during the 1960s and 1970s, playing Susan Hunter Martin on Days and Lesley Webber on General Hospital.

Alexander launched her career in the 1950s, debuting on Broadway in The Children’s Hour. She quickly transitioned to television, including roles on shows like The Twilight Zone. In 1960, she started her soap journey with the short-lived The Clear Horizon. A year later, she filmed an unaired pilot for General Hospital, then returned to the soap in 1973, following a brief stint on Days.

Her time on Days was notable; she appeared in over 800 episodes and met her husband, director Richard Colla. Their marriage lasted over 40 years until his passing in 2021. In the 1970s, Alexander’s career took a turn when she moved to General Hospital. This switch caused quite a stir in the entertainment world, but it revitalized the show, thanks in part to a compelling love triangle involving her character.

In 1976, Alexander earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for her role, cementing her place in soap history. However, she left GH in 1984, which sparked protests from fans due to disputes over her contract. During this time, she also guest-starred on Another World.

Returning to General Hospital in 1996, she reprised her character and continued to make appearances until 2021, totaling over 1,000 episodes.

In a heartfelt tribute, her co-star Genie Francis shared that Alexander was a significant influence on her own acting style. “She imprinted on me,” Francis said, reflecting on the deep connection they shared.

Susan Seaforth Hayes, another longtime friend and co-star, remembered Alexander fondly on Instagram. She highlighted their shared history and the wisdom Alexander offered throughout their careers.

Frank Valentini, executive producer of General Hospital, acknowledged Alexander’s pioneering role as one of the first female doctors on daytime television. "Her impact lasted nearly five decades," he said in a tribute.

Denise Alexander leaves behind a rich legacy in the world of soap opera, having touched the lives of many fans and colleagues alike.

For more on Alexander’s influence in the soap opera realm, you can check the tribute by Soap Opera Digest.

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Days Of Our Lives,General Hospital