Denise Alexander, soap opera icon who broke barriers on ‘General Hospital’ and ‘Days of Our Lives,’ dies at 85, leaving a profound legacy.
It’s with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to Denise Alexander, a true icon of daytime television. She passed away at 85 on March 5, 2025.
Denise wasn’t just an actress; she was a trailblazer who left an incredible mark on the world of soap operas and beyond. Her journey began in the 1950s when she stepped onto the Broadway stage in The Children’s Hour.
Soon after, she dipped her toes into television with roles in shows like The Twilight Zone and Father Knows Best. But it was the soapy, dramatic world of daytime TV where she truly found her home.
In 1960, Denise joined The Clear Horizon, warming up for bigger things to come. By 1966, she was stealing hearts as Susan Hunter Martin on Days of Our Lives.
For seven years, she brought a special kind of magic to Salem, drawing fans in with her depth and charisma. Then, in 1973, she took on the role that would cement her legacy: Dr. Lesley Webber on General Hospital.
Playing one of the first female doctors on daytime television, she didn’t just act—she broke barriers. Her powerful performance helped pull the show through a rough patch, earning her a Daytime Emmy nomination in 1976.
She stayed with General Hospital until 1984, popping back for guest spots as recently as 2021, always a welcome sight for longtime viewers.
The tributes pouring in tell you just how much she meant to people. Frank Valentini, the executive producer of General Hospital, put it beautifully: “She broke barriers on-screen and off, portraying Dr. Lesley Webber for nearly five decades.”
Her dear friend and Days of Our Lives co-star Susan Seaforth Hayes spoke with such warmth: “A friend to treasure and an actress to applaud.” And then there’s Genie Francis, who played her daughter on General Hospital.
Her words hit hard: “I loved her. She loved me. I stole her good stuff. She imprinted on me, and some of my style of acting was directly influenced by her.” You can feel the love and respect in every syllable.
Away from the cameras, Denise shared a steady, beautiful life with director Richard Colla, whom she met on Days of Our Lives.
They were together until his passing in 2021, a partnership as enduring as her career. Her death marks the end of an era for soap operas. Denise Alexander didn’t just perform—she inspired.
She paved the way for richer, more complex women on TV, leaving behind a legacy of talent, kindness, and grace. Rest in peace, Denise. We’ll never forget you.
source DEADLINE
