"Such a truly kind soul with no touch of the diva and only sweet things to say about everyone," her co-star Rick Springfield said in Jacklyn Zeman's memory.
Jacklyn Zeman, well-known as Bobbie Spencer, her famed character in General Hospital, is no more. The unfortunate news of her passing away was shared by Frank Valentini, executive producer of the daily soap show on his Twitter account on the night of Wednesday, May 10. Her family confirmed that Zeman died after a short battle with cancer, per ABC News. Zeman who was nominated for a Daytime Emmy four times for her role in the soap opera and once for playing Sofia Madison in The Bay was 70 years old.
The tweet by Valentini about The Bay actor’s passing away reads, "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. Jackie will be greatly missed, but her positive spirit will always live on with our cast and crew. We send our heartfelt sympathy to her loved ones, friends, and family, especially her daughters Cassidy and Lacey. #GH."
Zeman was a part of the General Hospital family for over 45 years and has appeared in 880 episodes of the show, according to IMDb. Zeman's long-standing involvement with the show speaks about the dedication and the impact she has had on the show's legacy. General Hospital's statement on Twitter is a testament to the importance of Zeman's contributions to the show over the years. "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," the soap opera's official social media post said.
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. pic.twitter.com/DxGdjYavab
— Frank Valentini (@valentinifrank) May 11, 2023
"We are devastated by the news of her passing, and send our deepest condolences to Jackie's family, friends, and loved ones," it added paying tribute to the General Hospital star. Rick Springfield, who got his start playing Dr. Noah Drake on the daily soap opera has expressed his condolences over Zeman's passing. It's clear that Zeman had a significant impact on Springfield's career and he's grateful for her role in launching him into the spotlight. In an exclusive word with PEOPLE, the 73-year-old actor said, "Such a truly kind soul with no touch of the diva and only sweet things to say about everyone."
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… pic.twitter.com/iFQpoKb72b
— General Hospital (@GeneralHospital) May 11, 2023
"She was the one (along with Gloria Monty) who helped launch my 80s career when after the screen test along with several other hopeful young men Gloria asked Jackie who she thought would make a good Noah Drake and God bless her if Jackie didn't say me. Love to your spirit as it ascends sweet girl. You left your mark on many of us and you will not be forgotten," he added while grieving the death of his former co-star.
References:
https://people.com/tv/general-hospital-actress-jacklyn-zeman-dead/
https://twitter.com/GeneralHospital/status/1656492801713139712
https://twitter.com/valentinifrank/status/1656492445914529793
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0954719/
Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Frederick M. Brown
