General Hospital Icon Denise Alexander Dies at 85 Shocking Loss Stuns Hollywood
Beloved soap opera legend Denise Alexander, who captivated millions as Dr. Lesley Webber on General Hospital, has died at 85 — leaving fans and the entertainment world in shock.
The sad news was confirmed by General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini, who praised Denise as a trailblazer in television and a joy to work with. “It meant so much to have her reprise her role in recent years,” Valentini said. “She broke barriers on-screen and off.”
Denise last appeared on the show in 2021, previously returning for its milestone anniversary episodes in 2013 and 2019. Her acting legacy also includes a memorable run on Days of Our Lives from 1966 to 1973.
A child star by the age of 6, Denise’s career spanned radio, television, and photography. She was also highly educated, earning an English degree from UCLA with a minor in art, and even pursued postgraduate studies while dabbling in real estate.
After briefly stepping away from the spotlight during college, she made a triumphant return to daytime TV thanks to a second offer from Days of Our Lives creators Ted and Betty Corday — a decision she later called one of the best of her life.
Denise was married to producer and director Richard A. Colla until his death in 2021. The couple had one daughter, Elizabeth.
Her passing marks the end of an era for soap opera fans everywhere.
