Tributes pour in as ‘General Hospital’ star Jacklyn Zeman who played Barbara 'Bobbie' Spencer dies at 70

2023-05-11 16:22

Jacklyn Zeman's death was announced by Frank Valentini, the executive producer of ‘General Hospital’, who remembered her as a 'bright light and true professional'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Soap actress Jacklyn Zeman, popular for playing the role of nurse Barbara "Bobbie" Spencer in ‘General Hospital’ for years, has died. She was 70. However, the cause of Zeman’s death has not been released yet.

Zeman’s death was announced by Frank Valentini, the executive producer of ‘General Hospital’, as he posted on Twitter, “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.”

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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. #GH.”

‘Such a truly kind soul’

Zeman reportedly started working in 'General Hospital' in 1977 and appeared in more than 800 episodes. The show also shared the news of her demise on social media. The show tweeted, “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,” the statement added.

Rick Springfield, who portrayed Dr Noah Drake on ‘General Hospital’, remembered Zeman as someone who had “only sweet things to say about everyone”. He told PEOPLE, “Such a truly kind soul with no touch of the diva and only sweet things to say about everyone. She was the one (along with Gloria Monty) who helped launch my 80s career when after the screen test along with several other hopeful young men Gloria asked Jackie who she thought would make a good Noah Drake and God bless her if Jackie didn't say me. Love to your spirit as it ascends sweet girl. You left your mark on many of us and you will not be forgotten.”

‘I am heartbroken by this news’

Film producer Debbie Lynn Elias tweeted, “What a shock. Such heartbreaking news. My deepest sympathies to Jackie's children and friends and to her GH family. Jackie is as much of an institution as @GeneralHospital itself. Her talent, her joy, her very presence, and essence will be missed. Rest in Peace, Jackie.”

Actress Brooke Lewis Bellas said, “I am heartbroken by this news💔 #JackieZeman was an #Icon & and an Inspiration to us forever #SoapOpera fanatics📺❤️ Goodnight #BobbieSpencer 🙌 May you #RestInPeace 🙏❤️😇.”

A fan of the late star commented, “I grew up watching GH, Bobbie Spencer, has been a part of my life since I was 12. Marriage, birth of my children, the death of a child, domestic Violence, divorce, passing the CA Bar, happiness & heartache. You will be greatly missed. RIP beautiful ❤️.”

Another one added, “No words but I’ll say this, Bobbie Spencer was my top 5 favorite characters on GH. One of the most important actresses in GH History. My prayers are with Jackie’s family especially her daughters costars and former costars during this difficult time. RIP Jackie Zeman #GH.”

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