Soap Opera Icon Denise Alexander Passes Away at 85 A ‘General Hospital’ Legend Remembered
The world of daytime television is mourning the loss of a true icon. Denise Alexander, beloved for her decades-long role as Dr. Lesley Webber on General Hospital, has passed away at the age of 85.
Although she died on March 5, news of her passing was only recently made public, sparking an outpouring of tributes from across the soap opera community and her devoted fanbase.
A Career That Defined Daytime Drama
Born in New York City in 1939, Denise Alexander began her acting career on Broadway in the 1950s, appearing in The Children’s Hour. From there, she earned guest roles in various television shows before landing a breakout part in 1960’s The Clear Horizon, playing the daughter of an astronaut.
Her first major soap role came in 1964 as Susan Hunter Martin on Days of Our Lives, where she quickly became a fan favorite.
But it was in 1973 that Alexander truly cemented her legacy, joining the cast of General Hospital as Dr. Lesley Webber — one of the first female doctors in daytime television history. Her performance captivated viewers for decades and made her a household name in soap culture.
Tributes from the Soap Opera Community
General Hospital’s executive producer Frank Valentini paid heartfelt tribute, writing:
“I am so very sorry to hear of Denise Alexander’s passing. She broke barriers on-screen and off, portraying Dr. Lesley Webber – one of the first female doctors on Daytime Television – for nearly five decades.”
“It meant so much to have her reprise her role in recent years. I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with her. On behalf of the entire General Hospital family, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to her family, friends, and longtime fans. May she rest in peace.”
Genie Francis, who played Alexander’s on-screen daughter Laura Spencer, also honored her co-star:
“Thank you mama, for so much more than you know. #GH,” she wrote, alongside a photo of them together.
Susan Seaforth Hayes, who worked with Alexander on Days of Our Lives, shared a deeply personal remembrance:
“A friend to treasure and an actress to applaud,” she posted.
“We both began as child actors, both had strong mothers and were raised as Christian Scientists. I was grateful for her wisdom, taste, humor, and goodness every time I saw her. It was never enough. And my love for her will never be over.”
A Trailblazer in Her Time
Denise Alexander wasn’t just an actress — she was a pioneer. Her role as Dr. Webber brought depth, intelligence, and compassion to the portrayal of women in medicine at a time when few such characters existed on daytime TV.
She remained a beloved figure among fans for her dignified performances, emotional range, and longstanding dedication to the genre.
Personal Life and Legacy
Denise Alexander was married to director and producer Richard A. Colla, and is survived by her stepdaughter, Elizabeth Colla. While she kept much of her personal life private, her warmth and passion for storytelling left a lasting imprint on generations of viewers.
A Lasting Light in Daytime Television
From Broadway to the halls of General Hospital, Denise Alexander’s legacy will live on through the characters she brought to life and the lives she touched.
Her performances were more than scenes — they were emotional truths, delivered with grace, strength, and vulnerability.
As the final credits roll on a career that spanned over six decades, we honor her not just as an actress, but as a trailblazer, a colleague, and a cherished friend.
📢 Please SHARE this tribute with friends and family who loved Denise Alexander. Her legacy deserves to be remembered.
