General Hospital star Denise Alexander dies at 85, leaving behind a legacy of strength and grace
Trailblazing actress remembered for portraying Dr. Lesley Webber, one of daytime TV’s first female doctors
Denise Alexander, the beloved actress who played Dr. Lesley Webber on General Hospital, has passed away at age 85, leaving behind a powerful legacy as one of the pioneers of women in daytime television.
Denise Alexander wasn’t just a familiar face on TV — she was a cornerstone of daytime drama. From her breakout role on Days of Our Lives to her decades-long portrayal of Lesley Webber on General Hospital, Alexander helped shape what soap operas would become.
Born in New York City on November 11, 1939, she was introduced to show business early through her father, Alec Alexander, a well-known talent agent. After moving to Los Angeles, Denise’s talent began to shine. By college, she had already appeared in thousands of radio broadcasts and hundreds of TV shows.
Her first big break came in 1966 as Susan Hunter Martin on Days of Our Lives, where she became a fan favorite. That role also led to her marriage to co-star Richard Colla, with whom she remained until his death in 2021.
In 1973, she made a career-defining jump to General Hospital, thanks to a record-breaking offer from ABC. Her portrayal of Dr. Lesley Webber — a strong, intelligent, and compassionate physician — broke ground as one of the first female doctors on daytime TV.
A return from the dead — and a lasting legacy
Alexander starred on General Hospital until 1984, when contract issues led to her character being written off in a dramatic car crash. Fans were heartbroken. But in true soap opera fashion, Lesley Webber returned from the dead in 1996, and Denise resumed the role that had made her a household name.
Even after leaving the show as a regular, she returned for special episodes through the years. Her final appearance came in 2021 — a full 48 years after her debut.
Off-screen, Alexander was admired for her warmth, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to her craft. She earned respect not just as an actress, but as a trailblazer who helped redefine women’s roles in daytime television.
Quiet goodbye, heartfelt tributes
Though Denise Alexander died on March 5, 2025, her death wasn’t publicly announced until May 9. The news came via General Hospital’s executive producer Frank Valentini, who honored her in a moving Instagram post.
“She broke barriers on-screen and off,” Valentini wrote. “It meant so much to have her reprise her role in recent years. I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with her.”
Fans quickly responded with an outpouring of grief and love:
“She was truly such an integral part of the wonder years of GH!” one fan commented.
“I thank the 3 of them for their dedication to their craft,” another wrote, referencing the recent losses of Alexander, Jaclyn Zeman, and Leslie Charleson. “They are and will be forever missed.”
Susan Seaforth Hayes, Alexander’s former Days of Our Lives co-star and longtime friend, also paid tribute:
“Denise Alexander was a friend to treasure and an actress to applaud… My love for her will never be over.”
Denise Alexander didn’t just act in soap operas — she made history in them. She portrayed women who were bold, complex, and compassionate, helping millions of viewers see strength in femininity long before it became mainstream.
In an industry known for its drama both on and off screen, Alexander remained a steady, graceful presence. Her performances touched generations, and her legacy will live on in every young actress who follows the path she helped carve.
As fans, friends, and family reflect on her life, one thing is clear: Denise Alexander wasn’t just part of the story — she helped write it.
