EUADenise Alexander, soap opera legend of General Hospital, passes away at 85

The actress, a native of New York City, relocated to the West Coast when her talent-agent father did so. (He represented such notables as Rebel Without a Cause scene stealer Sal Mineo.) Alexander made her big-screen debut at just 14, in the John Cassavetes film Crime In the Streets.

The actress, a native of New York City, relocated to the West Coast when her talent-agent father did so. (He represented such notables as Rebel Without a Cause scene stealer Sal Mineo.) Alexander made her big-screen debut at just 14, in the John Cassavetes film Crime In the Streets.

Needless to say, Alexander was a hit. As Laura’s mom, she drove frontburner story for years until finally, a 1984 contract dispute led her to exit her pivotal role. Two years later, Another World paid big bucks to sign her up to play Mary, the matriarch of the McKinnon clan.

The entertainment world mourns the loss of Denise Alexander, a cherished figure in daytime television, who passed away on March 5, 2025, at the age of 85. Known for her iconic role as Lesley Webber on General Hospital, Alexander captivated audiences with her talent and grace over a career spanning more than six decades. Her contributions to soap operas and her influence on co-stars like Genie Francis have left an indelible mark on the industry. As fans and colleagues reflect on her legacy, her work continues to resonate with viewers worldwide.

Born on November 11, 1939, in New York City, Alexander began her journey in acting as a child, quickly establishing herself as a versatile performer. Her early roles in the 1940s and 1950s laid the foundation for a prolific career that would see her become a household name. From television to soap operas, her ability to bring depth to her characters earned her widespread acclaim. Key highlights of her early career include:

• Appearing as Perry Como’s daughter in the 1949 variety show Perry Como’s Chesterfield Supper Club.
• Guest roles in popular series like The Twilight Zone and Father Knows Best.
• A recurring part in The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, showcasing her comedic timing.

Her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow actors, who remember her not only for her on-screen presence but also for her warmth and generosity off-screen. The soap opera community, in particular, feels the weight of her absence, as Alexander was a pivotal figure in shaping General Hospital’s success during its most challenging years.

Early beginnings in a golden era

Denise Alexander’s entry into show business came at a time when television was rapidly evolving. Growing up in New York City, she was immersed in a vibrant entertainment scene that nurtured her talents from a young age. Her debut as Perry Como’s daughter in 1949 marked the beginning of a career that would span multiple genres, from variety shows to dramatic series. By the 1950s, she had become a familiar face on television, appearing in anthology series and family-friendly sitcoms that defined the era.

Her ability to adapt to different roles set her apart early on. In The Twilight Zone, she delivered a memorable performance in a genre that demanded emotional nuance, while her work in Father Knows Best showcased her ability to connect with audiences through relatable characters. These experiences honed her craft, preparing her for the demanding world of soap operas, where she would later make her greatest impact. Alexander’s early career was a testament to her versatility, as she navigated the transition from child actor to seasoned professional with ease.

While studying at UCLA in the 1960s, Alexander continued to build her resume, balancing academics with her growing acting career. Her time at the university coincided with her first foray into daytime television, a move that would define the next phase of her life. The skills she developed during these formative years—discipline, emotional depth, and an intuitive understanding of character—would later become hallmarks of her performances on General Hospital.

A soap opera pioneer

Alexander’s introduction to soap operas came in 1960 with her role as Lois Adams on The Clear Horizon, a lesser-known but significant step in her career. The show, which aired on CBS, allowed her to explore the unique demands of daytime drama, where actors often filmed multiple episodes in a single week. Her performance caught the attention of producers, paving the way for her casting as Susan Hunter Martin on Days of Our Lives in 1966. At the time, she was still a student at UCLA, juggling coursework with the rigorous schedule of a soap opera star.

Her role on Days of Our Lives showcased her ability to portray complex, emotionally driven characters. As Susan, Alexander brought a quiet intensity to the screen, earning praise fHer transition to General Hospital later that year was a defining moment. Initially, the show’s producers did not have a specific role for her, but her reputation and skill prompted them to create the character of Lesley Webber. The decision proved to be a masterstroke, as Alexander’s portrayal of Lesley quickly became a fan favorite. Her chemistry with the cast and her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability her an integral part of the show’s resurgence.rom viewers and industry insiders alike. The experience also gave her a deep appreciation for the soap opera format, which relied on long-term storytelling and character development. By the time she left the show in 1973, she had become a sought-after talent in the daytime television world.