The cause of death for Jacklyn Zeman, best known for starring in General Hospital, has been revealed after she sadly passed away at the age of 70.
The late actress' death was first announced by the TV show’s executive producer, Frank Valentini, on Wednesday (May 10).
Taking to Twitter, the 60-year-old wrote: "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," he added.
He continued in a second tweet: "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."
Zeman played the role of nurse Barbara Jean - known as Bobbie - on the daytime soap opera for 45 years. Her older brother on the show was Luke Spencer, played by Anthony Geary.
The TV series shared a heartbreaking statement on its social media. They penned: "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," they added.
According to Zeman's family, the actress tragically died of cancer, as reported by ABC News.
The star appeared on the TV series for over four decades and left a lasting impact on her co-stars. Some have taken to their social media to post emotional tributes about her legacy.
General Hospital alum Rick Springfield heartwarmingly penned: "Incredibly stunned and broken-hearted to hear of Jackie’s passing. 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," he continued.
"Love to your spirit as it ascends, sweet girl. You left your mark on many of us and you will not be forgotten," he added.
Zeman first joined the cast of General Hospital in 1977 and went on to appear in 880 episodes, per IMDb. She even received four Daytime Emmy Awards nominations for her stellar role and one for playing Sofia Madison in The Bay.
The Misguided actress' portrayal of Bobbie touched many people's hearts. The character had worked as a teen prostitute and gave up her baby for adoption, but had managed to turn her life around and became a nurse at General Hospital.
As cited by ABC News, she spoke about the significance of her character during an interview in 1982 and said: "Bobbie has been a fascinating person for me to play. I get to do ... all the things that most women think about but wouldn’t dare."
Our thoughts continue to be with Zeman's family, friends, and fans at this time.
