Denise Alexander, a trailblazing figure in daytime television and best known for her long-running role as Dr. Lesley Webber on General Hospital, passed away on March 5, 2025, at the age of 85. The news of her death was publicly confirmed on May 9, 2025, by General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini, who paid tribute to the actress’s enduring legacy in a statement shared via social media.

“She broke barriers on-screen and off,” Valentini wrote. “Portraying Dr. Lesley Webber – one of the first female doctors on daytime television – for nearly five decades. It meant so much to have her reprise her role in recent years.”

Alexander’s passing marks the end of a remarkable career in television, radio, and stage, during which she became a beloved figure to generations of viewers.

Early Life and Beginnings in Entertainment

Denise Alexander was born on November 11, 1939, in New York City. Raised on Long Island, she moved to Los Angeles with her family after her father, Alec Alexander, a talent agent representing stars such as Frank Gorshin and Sal Mineo, relocated for work in the entertainment industry.

Alexander began performing at a young age, appearing in radio dramas and early television programs. According to archived interviews and industry profiles, she logged over 5,000 radio appearances and amassed more than 500 television credits by the time she was in college at UCLA.

Soap Opera Career: Days of Our Lives and General Hospital

Alexander made her soap opera debut in 1960 with the role of Lois Adams on The Clear Horizon. However, her breakthrough came in 1966 when she joined the cast of NBC’s Days of Our Lives as Susan Martin (later Susan Hunter Martin). Her performance quickly gained popularity and became central to many of the show’s major storylines during that period.

In 1973, as contract negotiations with NBC stalled, Alexander made a pivotal move to ABC’s General Hospital. The network reportedly offered her a groundbreaking contract, reflecting her status as a major television personality. She was cast as Dr. Lesley Webber, a character that would go on to become one of the show’s most recognizable and beloved figures.

Source: Soap Opera Digest – Denise Alexander Career Highlights

Alexander portrayed Dr. Lesley Webber from 1973 to 1984, during which time she was a central character in many of the show’s most dramatic and groundbreaking storylines. After leaving the show due to contractual disagreements, her character was written out in a dramatic storyline involving a car accident.

Return to General Hospital and Later Appearances

Following her initial departure from General Hospital, Alexander continued to act, including a stint on the NBC soap Another World. In a twist that delighted longtime fans, she returned to General Hospital in 1996, with her character revealed to have survived her presumed death. Alexander continued in a recurring role until 2009 and made occasional guest appearances, with her final appearance airing in 2021.

Her nearly five decades of involvement with General Hospital cemented her status as a legendary figure in daytime television.

Source: ABC – General Hospital Archives

Personal Life

Denise Alexander was married to Richard Colla, a fellow actor and director, whom she met while working in television. The two remained married until Colla’s death in 2021. Throughout her life, Alexander was known for maintaining a relatively private personal life, focusing on her work and staying connected with fans through occasional interviews and appearances.

Tributes from Colleagues and Fans

The announcement of her passing prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes from colleagues, fans, and industry veterans.

Susan Seaforth Hayes, a longtime friend and fellow Days of Our Lives star, remembered Alexander warmly:

“Denise Alexander was a friend to treasure and an actress to applaud… I was grateful for her wisdom, taste, humor, and goodness every time I saw her.”

Social media platforms were filled with fan tributes expressing gratitude for her decades of contributions to television. Many fans recalled her performances during the so-called “golden years” of General Hospital and praised her portrayal of strong, complex women on screen.

Source: Instagram – Frank Valentini Tribute Post

Breaking Barriers for Women in Television

Denise Alexander’s role as Dr. Lesley Webber was significant not only for its longevity but also for what it represented. At a time when female doctors were rarely portrayed on television—especially in daytime dramas—Alexander’s performance helped break ground for more diverse and empowered female characters in the genre.

Her contribution aligned with broader changes in the television landscape during the 1970s and 1980s, when soap operas began to explore more socially relevant themes and complex family dynamics.

Lasting Legacy

With a career spanning more than 60 years, Denise Alexander leaves behind a legacy defined by dedication to her craft, consistency in performance, and a pioneering role in shaping the landscape of daytime television.

Her performances touched the lives of millions, and she is remembered not only for her on-screen roles but also for her professionalism, kindness, and commitment to storytelling.

Final Appearance and Legacy

Alexander’s final appearance on General Hospital aired in 2021, marking nearly 50 years of involvement with the show. Her role as Dr. Lesley Webber continues to be referenced in current episodes, symbolizing her lasting impact on the show’s narrative and community.

As the soap opera world reflects on the loss of one of its longest-serving and most respected actors, fans and colleagues alike are celebrating her life’s work with gratitude.

Quote from Frank Valentini:
“It meant so much to have her reprise her role in recent years, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with her. On behalf of the entire General Hospital family, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to her family, friends, and longtime fans.”