General Hospital star Jacklyn Zeman dies as heartbroken co-stars pay tribute

11 May 2023 , 06:02

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Jacklyn Zeman has died aged 70

General Hospital actress Jacklyn Zeman has died at the age of 70.

The actress, who played Bobbie Spencer on the iconic soap opera, has been described as a "bright light and true professional" by her co-stars.

General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini announced the tragic news on Twitter on Thursday morning.

"On behalf of our @GeneralHospital family, I am heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved @JackieZeman.

"Just like her character, the legendary Bobbie Spencer, she was a bright light and true professional that brought so much positive energy with her to work," he wrote.

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In a second tweet, Frank added: "Jackie will be greatly missed, but her positive spirit will always live on with our cast and crew.

Jacklyn has died aged 70

"We send our heartfelt sympathy to her loved ones, friends, and family, especially her daughters Cassidy and Lacey."

A statement was also released by ABC Entertainment and General Hospital, reading: "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."

They continued: "We are devastated by the news of her passing, and send our deepest condolences to Jackie's family, friends and loved ones."

Jacklyn Zeman played Barbara "Bobbie" Spencer on General Hospital

Jacklyn's fans have also been paying tribute, with one person writing: "So sorry to hear this. I’m very sad to hear this. She will be missed."

Another wrote: "I am completely shocked and saddened by this devastating news. I have been watching GH for the last 45 years.

"Jackie Zeman was such a great actress and person. I really cannot believe this news. I send my prayers to her family, friends and fans."

A third fan added: "I am so sorry to hear this. I grew up watching her on #GH May she rest in peace."

Her fans and co-stars have been paying tribute (ABC via Getty Images)

Jacklyn began training for classical ballet when she was five years old and went on to complete her high school education at 15 and attended New York University on a scholarship to study dance.

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She briefly worked as a Playboy Bunny in a Playboy Club in 1972, before going on to begin her career in acting.

Jacklyn landed her first soap role on One Life to Live in 1976.

She played Lana McLain for 49 episodes before going on to star as Bobbie Spencer on General Hospital.

The actress appeared in 880 episodes of the show and received four Daytime Emmy nominations for her portrayal.

Jacklyn is survived by daughters Cassidy Zee Gorden and Lacey Rose Gorden.

Scarlett O'Toole