When we learned of the untimely passing on May 9 of popular actress Jacklyn Zeman, 70, we were startled and saddened. Two weeks after her final episode of General Hospital aired on April 27, and a few days after she celebrated her 70th birthday, we say goodbye to a dear friend and colleague.
Denise Alexander, who portrayed Dr. Lesley Webber on General Hospital, penned a heartfelt message to Zeman. She expressed her deep regret and offered valuable memories of their friendship. Alexander’s sincere comments, which Soap Hub first saw on May 15, eloquently conveyed their regard and love for one another.
Zeman and Alexander grew close to one another after joining the cast of General Hospital in the 1970s, both off and on screen. Their bond demonstrated the special bonds that formed amongst the show’s cast members.
While not all of Alexander’s previous co-stars paid tribute to Zeman in public, Luke Spencer actor Anthony Geary did so in a very special way. Geary praised Zeman’s professionalism and the notable absence of negativity in her workplace in a special statement sent to TVLine on May 11. He noted how unusual it was to encounter someone in the field who consistently spoke favorably and had such a genuine kindness of heart.
Frank Valentini, an executive producer of soap operas, broke the news of Zeman’s death first. He described her as a shining light, a true professional, and a source of enormous enthusiasm on the set. Though her absence will be sorely mourned, her optimistic approach will endure forever.
As news of Zeman’s passing spread, condolences from her family at General Hospital poured into social media. They praised the actress’s kindness and positive outlook in the face of adversity, and they offered their sympathies for her demise. Zeman’s contributions as an actor and her kindness will live on forever.
Laura Wright played Zeman’s on-screen daughter Carly Spencer, who expressed gratitude to him for their time together. She described Zeman as having a wonderful life, a contagious zeal, and a lovely soul full of interesting anecdotes. Wright shared her heartfelt gratitude on Instagram.
Tamara Braun, another actress who played Carly, honored Zeman’s legacy on Instagram. She wished she could hug Zeman again and share their laughs; she was astonished and disappointed. Braun emphasized the genuineness of their exchanges and the depth of their connection.
Even Zeman’s former co-stars reached out to honor him. Sarah Joy Brown, the first actor to play Zeman’s daughter on General Hospital, shared a poignant tribute on social media. She expressed her grief on behalf of all those who cared for Zeman, calling him beautiful both inside and out. Zeman’s impact on Brown’s life and profession was acknowledged.
A devoted, resilient, and loving legacy has been left by Jacklyn Zeman. Those who knew and admired her will always carry her spirit with them, even if her physical presence will be greatly missed. We honor her extraordinary skill and give thanks and love for her memory.
