“Like her character, the legendary Bobbie Spencer, she was a shining light and a true professional who brought so much positive energy with her to work,” general hospital Executive producer Frank Valentini said
Jacklyn Zeman, best known for her role as Bobbie Spencer in general hospital, is dead. She was 70 years old.
Frank Valentiniexecutive producer of the soap opera, announced his death on Twitter on Wednesday evening.
“In the name of our @General Hospital family, I am heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved @JackieZeman“, Valentini said. “Like her character, the legendary Bobbie Spencer, she was a shining light and a true professional who brought so much positive energy with her to work.”
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“Jackie will be greatly missed, but his positive spirit will always live on with our cast and crew. We send our deepest condolences to his loved ones, friends and family, especially his daughters Cassidy and Lacey. #GH,” he added.
Zeman first joined the cast of general hospital in 1977 and appeared in 880 episodes, according to IMDb. She has been nominated four times for a Daytime Emmy for her role in the soap opera and once for playing Sofia Madison in The Bay.
Related:15 Celebrities You Forgot Were On “General Hospital”
In a statement posted on Twitter, general hospital said Zeman has been part of their family for more than 45 years.
“She leaves a lasting legacy for her Emmy-nominated portrayal of bad girl turned hero and her kind heart and radiant spirit will always be remembered,” the soap opera’s Twitter account said. “We are devastated by the news of his passing and send our deepest condolences to Jackie’s family, friends and loved ones.”
Zeman was also honored by those who worked with her.
Rick Springfield, who made his showbiz debut playing Dr. Noah Drake on general hospitaltold PEOPLE he was “incredibly stunned and heartbroken to learn of Jackie’s passing”, adding that he was grateful to Zeman, whom he credits with launching his career.
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“A really kind soul with no diva touches and only sweet things to say about everyone,” Springfield, 73, said. “It was she (along with Gloria Monty) who helped launch my career in the 80s when after the screen test 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 tell me love your spirit as it rises my sweet girl you left your mark on many of us and you won’t be forgotten.
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