Legendary daytime drama actress Jacklyn Zeman who played the role of Bobbie Spencer on General Hospital and previously Laura McClain on One Life To Live has passed away.
Her family confirmed that Zeman died at the age of 70 after a short battle with cancer.
The sad news of her death was first announced by the show’s executive producer, Frank Valentini who wrote on Twitter “I am heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Jackie Zeman. Just like her character, the legendary Bobbie Spencer, she was a bright light and a true professional that brought so much positive energy with her work.”
Featured Image from Twitter/ValentiniFrank
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
ABC Entertainment and “General Hospital” also released a statement stating, “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.”
Zeman joined “General Hospital” in 1977 as Barbara Jean, who went by Bobbie, and was the feisty younger sister of Anthony Geary’s Luke Spencer. Zeman grew to regard Geary as family off camera. “I’m probably closer to him than I would be a real-life brother,” she told co-star Maurice Benard last year on his YouTube series “State of Mind.”
Zeman received 3 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series and 1 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series nominations for her role. Since 2013, Zeman appeared on General Hospital in a recurring basis.
Zeman appeared in the 1982 comedy film National Lampoon’s Class Reunion and had a cameo in the spoof comedy film, Young Doctors in Love. She starred in the made-for-television movies Jury Duty: The Comedy (1990) opposite Heather Locklear and Montana Crossroads (1993) opposite Kellie Martin. She performed in off-Broadway and other productions including Come Blow Your Horn, Barefoot in the Park and The Boyfriend.[5] Zeman received another Daytime Emmy Award nomination for her regular role as Sofia Madison in the streaming series, The Bay in 2021.
