Actors on long-running soaps like General Hospital often find that they age and experience life alongside their on-screen alter egos. Indeed, this was the case with Jacklyn Zeman, who portrayed Bobbie Spencer for decades. However, on May 10, 2023, it was reported that Jacklyn had passed away at the age of 70.
Both the actress and the character she played for so long are being mourned by their legions of devoted fans.
Jackie Zeman Cause of De@th
Jacklyn’s family reported to the Associated Press that she passed away after a brief cancer fight.
In a tweet dated May 10, General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini broke the news of her de@th. “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.”
There was also a joint statement from ABC Entertainment and General Hospital, which read, “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.”
The statement continued: “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. We are devastated by the news of her passing, and send our deepest condolences to Jackie’s family, friends and loved ones.”
Reactions From Fans to the Actress’s De@th
Many General Hospital and Frank Valentini followers flocked to Twitter to express their dismay and grief at the news. Everyone expresses their sorrow and offers their condolences and prayers to her loved ones. Fans unanimously agree that she is a legend in the entertainment business.
RIP to Jacklyn Zeman, who played Bobbie Spencer, on the soap General Hospital. She lost her battle with cancer at 70.
Who else rushed home from school every day to watch GH? pic.twitter.com/IedVt2GQrR— Sabrina Smolders
(@SabrinaSmolders) May 11, 2023
The comments section was filled with folks reminiscing about their childhoods spent watching Barbara Jean “Bobbie” Spencer. There are many expressions of sorrow and fond memories of the actress’s groundbreaking performances. In addition, #RIPJackie became one of the top trending topics in the United States on Twitter.
So sad to hear that General Hospital star Jacklyn Zeman has passed away today. #RIP pic.twitter.com/iOFRacrBKj
— Christine Lavorino (@Chrissie_L71) May 11, 2023
Jacklyn Zeman: An Inspiration to Women Everywhere
The actress, now 70 years old, was born on March 6, 1953, in New Jersey, United States. She has done some minor work in TV and movies before obtaining a position on One Life To Live. Before Bobbie Spencer was born on General Hospital in late 1977, Jacklyn Zeman played Lana McLain on One Life To Live.
Jackie Zeman is a veteran actress who has played several iconic characters on screen. This resulted in numerous nominations from major acting organizations. Zeman was nominated for four Daytime Emmys, three for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series and one for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, all for her portrayal of Bobbie Spencer.
The Indie Series Awards also recognized Jacklyn Zeman with nominations. With Misguided, she was nominated for Best Supporting Actress in two categories: drama and comedy. As a result of her performance in The Bay, Zeman was also nominated for the award for Best Supporting Actress.
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