General Hospital Remembers: Honoring Beloved Cast Members We’ve Lost
Long before Grey’s Anatomy took the spotlight, General Hospital laid the foundation for emotional, character-driven storytelling in the medical drama genre.
After over 60 years on the air, GH has become a television institution—but with such longevity comes the inevitable loss of many beloved stars who helped make Port Charles the iconic town it is today.
From seasoned veterans to newer faces, these cast members left behind legacies that continue to resonate with fans. Here is a heartfelt look back at some of General Hospital’s most cherished actors who have passed away, but are far from forgotten.
Lindsey Pearlman (Margaret, 2020)
Though Lindsey Pearlman only briefly appeared on GH in 2020 as barista Margaret, her role was memorable, including intense scenes like getting caught in a brutal shootout. Off-screen, Pearlman was a versatile performer with credits in Empire, Chicago Justice, and a parody short titled Cam Kardashian.
In February 2022, Pearlman was tragically reported missing and later found deceased by suicide. She was 43. Her husband, Vance Smith, expressed his grief on Instagram, writing, “She’s gone. I’m broken.” Executive producer Frank Valentini praised her performance, while fellow actor Danielle Pinnock called her “hilarious, goofy AF, stunning, and ridiculously gifted.” Her loss was sudden and deeply felt by the GH family.
John Ingle (Edward Quartermaine, 1993–2012)
John Ingle made Edward Quartermaine one of the most formidable and complex patriarchs in General Hospital history. With his commanding presence, Ingle portrayed the ruthless Quartermaine elder for nearly two decades, bringing both gravitas and heart to the role.
Ingle passed away in 2012 from cancer at the age of 84, just days after his final GH episode aired. ABC paid tribute to him with the poignant line: “With a simple ‘I love you too,’ a thumbs up, and a smile, we say goodbye to John Ingle’s indelible depiction of Edward Quartermaine.” His legacy as the Quartermaine family anchor endures.
Jay Pickett (Detective David Harper, 2007)
Jay Pickett’s GH journey began as Lorenzo Alcazar, but he’s best remembered as Detective David Harper, involved in Port Charles’ crime wars. A veteran of Days of Our Lives and Dexter, Pickett’s heart was always with the Western genre.
In 2021, while filming the movie Treasure Valley, Pickett tragically suffered a fatal heart attack on set. He died doing what he loved—on horseback, preparing for a scene. Co-star Jim Heffel described it as “the way of a true cowboy.” Peter Facinelli mourned, “His performance will live on.” Pickett was 60.
Shell Kepler (Amy Vining, 1979–2002)
For 23 years, Shell Kepler lit up GH as Nurse Amy Vining, Bobbie Spencer’s gossipy yet lovable sister. Her over-the-top style and energetic delivery made Amy unforgettable. Off-screen, Kepler was a savvy entrepreneur, earning $20 million in 1994 with her clothing line on the Home Shopping Club.
She passed away in 2008 from kidney failure at just 49. Jaclyn Zeman (Bobbie) remembered her as “generous, loving, and a special friend.” Kepler’s presence is sorely missed, but her unique portrayal of Amy remains etched in the show’s history.
Philip Baker Hall (Judge Simpson, 1983)
Philip Baker Hall’s appearance as Judge Simpson in 1983 was brief but powerful—presiding over a pivotal Quartermaine wedding. Hall went on to a prolific career with standout roles in Boogie Nights, Magnolia, and as the iconic library cop Mr. Bookman on Seinfeld.
He died in June 2022 at age 90 due to emphysema. The Seinfeld official account honored him, writing, “His talent will be cherished.” His stint on GH is just one part of a rich, decades-long acting legacy.
Bergen Williams (Alice Gunderson, 2002–2015)
Big Alice Gunderson, the Quartermaine housekeeper and secret wrestling fan, was brought to life by Bergen Williams with flair and warmth. Her crush on Luke Spencer gave fans countless laughs.
In 2021, Williams passed away at 62 from Wilson’s disease. Her sister, Linda, shared that the illness affected her ability to act, saying, “I’m sad they didn’t give Big Alice Wilson’s disease on the show so she could keep her job and insurance.” Kimberly McCullough (Robin) called her “a force to be reckoned with,” and Brandon Barash (Johnny Zacchara) praised her radiant energy.
Susan Brown (Gail Baldwin, 1977–2004)
Susan Brown played psychiatrist Gail Baldwin, a calming and wise presence in Port Charles. Nominated for a Daytime Emmy in 1979, she balanced her GH work with appearances on As the World Turns and Santa Barbara.
Brown passed away in 2018 at 86 after battling Alzheimer’s disease. Ken Shriner, who played her son, called her one of his “besties.” Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis) remembered her as “gracious and classy.” GH honored her in a moving tribute episode.
Stuart Damon (Alan Quartermaine, 1977–2007)
Stuart Damon portrayed Dr. Alan Quartermaine with depth and charisma, turning the sometimes-homicidal physician into a fan favorite. He won an Emmy in 1999 and brought levity to the role, once joking, “I’m nothing like Alan Quartermaine.”
Damon died in 2021 from kidney failure at 84. He had battled renal disease for years. His son revealed, “It was his favorite place to be. He loved playing Alan.” His performance continues to shape GH’s legacy.
Peter Hansen (Lee Baldwin, 1965–2004)
Peter Hansen’s Lee Baldwin was the moral compass of Port Charles. A lawyer-turned-mayor, he stood in contrast to the town’s schemers. Beyond GH, Hansen appeared in over 100 projects, including The Golden Girls and The War of the Roses.
He passed in 2017 at age 95. The official GH account tweeted, “He will forever be a part of the GH legacy.” Indeed, his kind and principled presence is deeply missed.
Barbara Tarbuck (Jane Jacks, 1996–2010)
Barbara Tarbuck brought warmth to Jane Jacks, mother of Jasper Jax. A prolific actor and teacher, she appeared in Nip/Tuck, Glee, and American Horror Story: Asylum.
In 2016, Tarbuck died from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (human mad cow disease) at 74. Ingo Rademacher (Jax) expressed his shock, calling her “the kindest, warmest person.” Her intellectual and emotional gifts enriched every set she graced.
John Reilly (Sean Donnelly, 1984–1995, 2008)
John Reilly’s Sean Donnelly was a former WSB agent whose past collided with Port Charles drama, including being poisoned and targeted by terrorists. Reilly also starred in Dallas and Beverly Hills 90210.
He passed in 2021 at age 86. His daughter, Caitlin Riley, wrote, “Imagine the best person in the world. Now imagine that person being your dad.” GH aired a tribute, with Frank Valentini calling him “immensely talented.”
Anna Lee (Lila Quartermaine, 1978–2003)
Dignified and gentle, Anna Lee’s Lila Quartermaine was the heart of the family. Paralyzed in a car accident in real life, she continued to act from her wheelchair, embodying grace onscreen.
Lee died in 2004 at 91 from pneumonia. Though she had been promised a lifetime contract, her role was quietly retired. Her departure marked the end of an era, but her legacy remains cherished.
Gerald Anthony (Marco Dane, 1992–1994)
Gerald Anthony’s Marco Dane was electric—daytime’s answer to Al Pacino. He won an Emmy in 1993 and brought fire to both One Life to Live and GH. Sadly, Anthony died by suicide in 2004 at 52.
Frank Valentini praised his dedication, while Robin Strasser said he was “so mesmerizing in his choices.” His artistry lives on in every frame.
Norma Connolly (Ruby Anderson, 1979–1997)
From sex worker to diner matriarch, Ruby Anderson was a pillar of GH, played by the fiercely compassionate Norma Connolly. Off-screen, she was a tireless AIDS activist and champion for women in Hollywood.
Connolly died in 1998 at age 71 after a stroke. Her role was retired with a quiet, dignified send-off—much like Ruby herself.
Lucille Wall (Lucille March, 1963–1976)
An original cast member, Lucille Wall played head nurse Lucille March. A former radio star, her voice was famous before her face. She continued making appearances into the 1980s.
Wall passed in 1986 at 88. Though she left behind no survivors, her role in GH’s inception ensures she’ll never be forgotten.
Jacklyn Zeman (Bobbie Spencer, 1977–2023)
A true legend, Jacklyn Zeman played Bobbie Spencer for 45 years. Fierce, flawed, and always captivating, Bobbie’s transformation from troubled teen to wise nurse was one of GH’s most powerful arcs.
Zeman passed in May 2023 at 70. In life and legacy, she was the heartbeat of Port Charles. As she once said, “Bobbie has been a fascinating person for me to play.” Fans would agree—she was a fascinating person to watch.
In Memoriam
The tapestry of General Hospital is woven with the hearts, voices, and performances of these incredible actors. Their stories, both on and off screen, continue to inspire and comfort audiences around the world. Though gone, they are never forgotten. Port Charles stands because of them.
