On Wednesday, May 10, 2023, the world learned that Jackie Zeman, who played Bobbie Spencer on “General Hospital”, passed away at the age of 70 years old after a short battle with cancer, according to Deadline.com.
The news was initially shared by the show’s executive producer Frank Valentini in a heartfelt Twitter post.
She joined the cast in 1977 and appeared in over 800 episodes and was nominated for five Daytime Emmy awards for her work in “General Hospital” and “The Bay”.
Incredibly stunned 💔 to hear of @JackieZeman Jackie’s passing. Such a truly kind soul with no touch of the diva and only sweet things to say about everyone. Love to your spirit as it ascends, sweet girl. You left your mark on many of us and you will not be forgotten. Xo pic.twitter.com/DQ6WkYBFkE
— Rick Springfield (@rickspringfield) May 11, 2023
Outpouring of love
As expected, her current and former costars shared their thoughts and memories on social media.
Maurice Benard took to his Instagram to say:
“This hit me really hard, a gut punch. I think because Jackie was such a sweet, delicate soul. And I got to know her really well in the later years, I just loved her spirit.
“I keep telling people life is not fair, we just have to except what is. I will miss you, Jackie we all will✝️”
Greg Vaughan (currently Eric Brady on “Days of Our Lives”) said she was an “Incredible woman with a smile that made you smile” and Eden McCoy (Josslyn Jacks on “General Hospital) said “Jackie was the first person I spoke to when I walked on set to film my very first scene. I was so nervous, but she soothed me with hugs as she introduced herself.”
Former castmates John Stamos and Rick Springfield also shared their thoughts and memories.
I just heard of Jackie Zeman‘s passing late tonight. This is going to take me a minute to process. I can’t believe such a life force as hers has left. Her family and close friends must be absolutely devastated. Please hold them in your hearts. @JackieZeman #RIP @GeneralHospital pic.twitter.com/wSsQ4fKdag
— Jon Lindstrom (@thejonlindstrom) May 11, 2023
John Stamos talked about how she always brightened his day and she continues to inspire him, and Jon Lindstrom needs a minute to process it.
“I just heard of Jackie Zeman‘s passing late tonight. This is going to take me a minute to process. I can’t believe such a life force as hers has left. Her family and close friends must be absolutely devastated. Please hold them in your hearts.”
Social media is full of more posts of everyone sharing their love and support for Jackie and her family during this difficult time.
It’s times like this we’re reminded how much actors become a part of our lives by bringing our favorite characters to life and we get to see behind the character.
It’s heartwarming to see so much love being shared about Jackie and how she treated her fellow castmates, whether they were new of veterans of the show.
Some shoes can never be filled, and hers are one of those.
What’s your favorite memory of her? Let us know in the comments below.
