Jackie Zeman, the actress who played the iconic role of Bobbie Spencer on the ABC soap opera General Hospital for 45 years, passed away on May 9, 2023, at the age of 70. Her cause of death was revealed to be cancer, according to her family
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A Remarkable Career in Daytime TV
Zeman was born on March 6, 1953, in Englewood, New Jersey. She studied dance on a scholarship at New York University and worked as a Playboy Bunny in 1972 She began her acting career with several small parts before landing a regular role on One Life to Live as Lana McClain from 1976 to 1977
Later that year, she joined the cast of General Hospital as Bobbie Spencer, the sister of Luke Spencer (Anthony Geary). She portrayed the character of Bobbie, a former prostitute turned nurse, with charisma and charm, earning her four Daytime Emmy Award nominations and a loyal fan base
Zeman appeared on General Hospital on a regular basis until 2010, and then on a recurring basis since 2013. She also starred in other TV shows and movies, such as National Lampoon’s Class Reunion, The Bay, One Life to Live, and Jury Duty: The Comedy
A Beloved Member of the General Hospital Family
Zeman’s death was announced by General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini, who tweeted, “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 added, “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.
The show also released a statement, saying, “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. We are devastated by the news of her passing, and send our deepest condolences to Jackie’s family, friends, and loved ones.”
Many of Zeman’s co-stars and friends paid tribute to her on social media, including John Stamos, who shared a touching post on Instagram, saying, “I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the talented and beloved actress, @jacklyn.zeman I recall the wonderful times we spent working together on General Hospital. Her warm personality and infectious energy always brightened my day. Jackie will forever hold a special place in my heart, and her memory will continue to inspire me.
A Legacy of Love and Light
Zeman was married three times and had two daughters, Cassidy and Lacey, from her third husband Glenn Gorden She was a close friend of GH co-stars Shell Kepler and Anna Lee, to whom she delivered eulogies at their funerals
Zeman was known for her generosity, kindness, and humor, both on and off the screen. She touched the lives of many people with her talent and grace. She will be dearly missed by her fans, colleagues, and family, but her legacy will live on through her work and her spirit. Rest in peace, Jackie Zeman. You will always be our Bobbie Spencer.
