Jacklyn Zeman, who played Bobbie Spencer for 45 years on ABC’s General Hospital has died aged 70. As per reports, she fought cancer for a short while prior to her sudden passing.
The news of her passing was shared by the show’s executive producer Frank Valentini.
“I am heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Jackie Zeman,” he posted on Twitter. “Just like her character, the legendary Bobbie Spencer, she was a bright light and a true professional that brought so much positive energy with her work.”
ABC Entertainment and General Hospital released a statement as well. “Jacklyn Zeman has been a beloved member of the General Hospital and ABC family since she originated the iconic role of Bobbie Spencer over 45 years ago. She leaves behind a lasting legacy for her Emmy-nominated portrayal of the bad girl turned heroine and will always be remembered for her kind heart and radiant spirit. We are devastated by the news of her passing, and send our deepest condolences to Jackie’s family, friends and loved ones.”
Zeman first joined the cast of the long-running daytime drama in 1977, according to Imdb.
Zeman’s sudden passing came three days prior to her birthday and less than two weeks after her final episode of General Hospital, which aired on April 27.
Denise Alexander, Zeman’s co-star, shared a touching tribute. “Oh girl, I can’t stop crying because I keep hearing your voice and laughing. I have always loved and cherished your sweetness, humor, brilliance, and lovely goodness. The finest embraces, too. I will always love you. Denise,” she wrote in a brief letter that was first made available by Soap Hub on May 15.
“I’m very happy that I got to spend so much time with this lovely woman. Jackie had the best stories to tell, a contagious spirit, and such a remarkable life. She enjoyed working on General Hospital,” Laura Wright, who portrayed Carly Spencer, the character who was Zeman’s daughter in the serial show, stated on Instagram.
Tamara Braun was among those who pays their tribute to Zeman. “I am at a loss for words. This hurts and disturbs me beyond words. I wish to hug you. Join us in our laughter. Tell stories. Talk real talk because that’s what we did.”
Zeman is survived by two daughters, Cassidy and Lacey from her first marriage to Glenn Gordon. She was married and divorced two more times to Steve Gribbin and disc jockey Murray Kaufman who went by “Murray the K.”
Rest in peace, Jacklyn Zeman, you are missed.
Meet Paul Newman’s grandchildren, who bear a striking resemblance to the cherished actor
Some actors can evoke deep emotions just by hearing their names, and Paul Newman is definitely one of them. He remains a legendary figure in cinema, beloved for his iconic roles and his enduring legacy.
Newman, who passed away in 2008, was married to actress Joanne Woodward, forming one of Hollywood’s most admired couples. Together, they shared a remarkable journey of love and creativity, which continues through their grandchildren.
Paul Newman starred in unforgettable films such as Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), Sweet Bird of Youth (1962), Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969), and The Color of Money (1986). His marriage to Joanne, which lasted until his death at 83, was a true partnership filled with shared passions, including acting, travel, and family life.
Joanne, who married Paul on January 29, 1958, in Las Vegas, had her own successful career, known for taking on strong, independent roles in a time when many actresses were often typecast. Their love story began when they met in New York in 1953, shortly after Paul divorced his first wife, Jackie Witte.
Together, Paul and Joanne had three daughters: Elinor Teresa (born 1959), Melissa Stewart (born 1961), and Claire Olivia (born 1965). Paul also had three children from his first marriage: Scott (born 1950), Susan (born 1953), and Stephanie (born 1954). Tragically, Scott passed away in 1978.
Today, Paul and Joanne’s legacy lives on through their two grandchildren, Peter and Henry Elkind, sons of Melissa “Lissy” Stewart and her husband Raphael Elkind. As the only male heirs in the family, they carry forward their grandfather’s remarkable lineage.
Peter, a nature enthusiast who enjoys various sports, shares a striking resemblance to Paul, complete with his grandfather’s famous smile and piercing blue eyes. In the recent HBO documentary The Last Movie Stars, Peter reflected on his relationship with Paul, stating: “I knew about the movies and thought it was really cool, but he was more like my grandfather”. He also expressed the difficulty of losing him, saying: “It was really hard when he died because he was such a big part of my life. I admired him so much and loved him so much”.
Henry, Peter’s brother, graduated last year and is pursuing a music career in New York, where he shares his work on popular streaming platforms. He, too, bears a striking resemblance to Paul, embodying the charm and charisma that defined his grandfather.
Both grandsons exemplify the values and legacy their grandparents established, continuing to honor their family’s rich history. Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s love story is truly exceptional, and their over 50 years of marriage is a testament to their enduring bond, a remarkable example of Hollywood’s golden age.
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