General Hospital Actress Denise Alexander Passes Away at 85

Despite the overwhelming outpouring of love and admiration, some close to the industry speculate about the unexplained delay in announcing the passing of Denise Alexander.

Why did it take two months for this news to come out, especially considering her fame as a daytime television personality? Speculations arise regarding the private family issues and internal conflicts that could have contributed to the lack of communication.

Did her final days hold more significance than what fans initially believed? This unexpected silence only intensifies the curiosity surrounding the beloved star’s final chapter, leaving many wondering what secrets are yet to be revealed. 

The well-known actress, famous for her roles on popular shows like general hospital and days of our lives, has sadly passed away. 

According to soap opera digest, Denise Alexander, known for her role as Laura’s mother Lesley on General Hospital, passed away at the age of 85. 

Alexander’s rise to stardom commenced in 1966 when she joined nbc’s days of our lives as susan martin. Throughout her tenure on the show, she formed a lasting romantic relationship with co-star Richard Colla, whom she eventually married and remained with until his passing in 2021. In 1973, she took a daring step by departing from her previous job to join the cast of ABC’s general hospital, earning the hearts of viewers as one of the show’s most beloved stars. 

Denise Alexander was well-acquainted with the spotlight from a young age. Born in new york city on november 11, 1939, and raised on long island, she later relocated to los angeles after her father, alec alexander—a talent agent who represented stars like frank gorshin and sal mineo—moved the family west.

By the time she reached her junior year at UCLA, Alexander had already established a remarkable career, boasting over 5,000 radio appearances and 500 television credits under her belt. 

Her acting career began in 1960 with a role as Lois Adams on the popular TV show “The Clear Horizon.” However, it was her portrayal of Susan Hunter Martin on “Days of Our Lives” from 1966 to 1973 that truly launched her to stardom. 

When contract negotiations hit a standstill in 1973, a few days of our lives were dedicated to rewriting her character’s role in the storyline. Seizing the opportunity, abc daytime made an unprecedented offer, including an extraordinary salary and benefits, to entice alexander to join the general hospital. 

She rapidly rose to fame on the show, captivating audiences for eleven years before departing in 1984 due to disagreements over her contract. Her character, Leslie, was written off dramatically after a car accident. 

Alexander later made an appearance on nbc’s another world, but unexpectedly returned to general hospital in 1996, with her character miraculously brought back to life. She was a regular on the show until 2009 and occasionally made guest appearances until 2021.

Denise Alexander passed away on March 5, 2025, at the age of 85, but the announcement was only made public two months later on May 9. The news was shared by the general hospital executive producer, Frank Valentini, who posted a touching tribute on Instagram. 

‘i am deeply saddened to hear of denise alexander’s passing,’ valentini wrote Lesley Webber, one of the pioneering female doctors on daytime television, has been a prominent figure for nearly five decades. It was a privilege to collaborate with her in recent years. 

Valentini expressed his sympathy to her loved ones, friends, and devoted followers, and shared a collection of pictures capturing alexander’s life and work, both on set and off. 

Fans promptly shared their condolences, acknowledging how crucial Alexander was to the golden era of General Hospital. 

One fan expressed,’she was an indispensable component of gh’s magical years!’

Others reflected on the hardships the cast has endured, losing so many beloved actors over the last two years. ‘jaclyn zeman, leslie charleson, and now denise alexander—these extraordinary actresses have given us so much,’ one fan wrote, ‘and will be deeply missed forever.’. 

Susan seaforth hayes, a fellow days of our lives star, also paid tribute on social media, calling alexander ‘a friend to treasure and an actress to applaud.’ hayes fondly remembered their shared early days in salem and praised alexander’s wisdom, humor, and kindness. 

With over fifty years of experience in the industry, Denise Alexander touched the hearts of numerous viewers and left a lasting impression on daytime television. 

Her lasting impact—demonstrated by her skill, elegance, and commitment—will endure through the recollections of her loved ones, acquaintances, and admirers. Farewell, Denise Alexander. 

Denise Alexander’s illustrious career lasted for nearly five decades, during which she made groundbreaking strides both in front of and behind the camera. Her portrayal of dr. Lesley Webber not only captivated audiences but also broke barriers by portraying strong and influential female characters on daytime television.

As admirers, coworkers, and loved ones remember her talent, elegance, and commitment, her legacy continues to radiate brightly. Though she has passed away, Denise Alexander’s influence on the soap opera industry and the hearts of viewers will continue to be felt for generations to come. Farewell: