Actress Denise Alexander, famously recognized for her roles as Dr. Lesley Webber in ‘General Hospital’ and Susan Hunter Martin in ‘Days of Our Lives‘, passed away at the age of 85. Although she died on March 5, the news was only recently disclosed by ‘GH’ showrunner Frank Valentini in a social media post. In his tribute, Valentini highlighted Alexander’s memorable portrayal and her status as one of the earliest female doctors depicted on daytime television. Denise graced the screens of ‘General Hospital’ from 1973 to 1984, with occasional reprisals in later years. In his post, Valentini commended Alexander for her groundbreaking performance.
It’s deeply saddening to learn about Denise Alexander’s passing. She was a trailblazer, playing Dr. Lesley Webber – one of the earliest female doctors on daytime TV – for close to five decades. It was truly special to see her return to her role in more recent times, and I feel privileged to have collaborated with her. On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, I send my heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and devoted fans. May she find eternal peace.
Prior to playing Dr. Lesley Webber on General Hospital, Denise Alexander had previously appeared as Susan Hunter Martin on Days of Our Lives. This role came her way in 1966, a year after she initially declined it before the show even premiered in 1965. Despite knowing the show’s creators, Ted Corday and Betty Corday, Denise chose to turn down the part because she was still studying at UCLA. In an interview with We Love Soaps, Denise reminisced about the experience, saying, “When you’re an actor, getting a call without having to audition is like a significant milestone in your career, and it’s something you’ll always remember.
After another phone call, Alexander hesitated whether she wished to persist with acting, yet decided to give it another go and was grateful she did so. Her character, Susan Hunter Martin, is renowned for committing the initial on-screen murder on the show. Following a disagreement over contracts with the network of Days of Our Lives, ABC presented Denise Alexander with an impressive deal to join General Hospital. The aim was that her fame could boost the show’s ratings. Her portrayal was well-received, as she played Lesley, who was the mother of Laura (portrayed by then-teenager Genie Francis), and was involved in a love triangle with characters Rick Webber and Monica Quartermaine. This role earned Alexander an Emmy nomination for Daytime Acting and a lasting place in the hearts of soap opera enthusiasts for years to come.
Denise Alexander’s Legendary Career Started Before ‘General Hospital’ and ‘Days of Our Lives’
At the tender age of six, Alexander embarked on her acting journey. As shared by PEOPLE magazine in 2010, she expressed gratitude for the numerous chances that came her way. “I had the chance to work on television, radio, and more, and it all felt so natural,” she said. “Looking back now, I realize just how fortunate I was — not many people got those kinds of opportunities.” During her time in radio, Alexander made appearances on several soap operas, and by 1968, as reported by The Press Courier, she had already secured over 5,000 radio roles and more than 500 TV roles.
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2025-05-10 20:30