Many of us were familiar with Jacklyn Zemen from her role as Bobbie Spencer on General Hospital. Everyone was shocked to learn of her death. General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini made the announcement public. The show’s producer made the announcement 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,” Valentini said in his tweet.
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
The message went on to express sympathy for Jacklyn’s family, particularly her children. “Jackie will be greatly missed, but her positive spirit will always live on with our cast and crew,” he said. “We send our heartfelt sympathy to her loved ones, friends, and family, especially her daughters Cassidy and Lacey,” the message said.
For decades, Zeman portrayed Bobbie Spencer on the popular daytime drama General Hospital. She began portraying the part in 1977 and continued to do so till her death. She has appeared in about 880 episodes as Bobbie Spencer.
In 1996, she starred as Bobbie Spencer in the General Hospital: Twist of Fate TV movie spin-off.
During her career, she has appeared in various television shows, including One Life to Live, The Bay, and Chicago Hope.
Rick Springfield, who notably briefly featured on General Hospital in the 1980s, expressed some thoughts about the late actress, expressing his regret at her loss.
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
Springfield said that he was startled and heartbroken to learn about Jackie’s death. Such a kind person with no diva tendencies and just positive things to say about everyone. She was the one (along with Gloria Monty) who helped launch his 80s career when, after the screen test, Gloria asked Jackie who she thought would make a good Noah Drake, and God bless her if Jackie didn’t say him. He is sending her love as her spirit ascends, sweet girl. She made an impression on many of them, and she will not be forgotten, he added.
Her two children survived Jacklyn Zeman.