Jacklyn Zeman has sadly passed away at the age of 70. The actress, who portrayed nurse Bobbie Spencer on the daytime soap opera General Hospital, is being mourned by her co-stars on the long-running show.
Her death was announced on Wednesday by one of the executive producers on the show.
Taking to Twitter, Frank Valentini said: "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 went on to write: "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."
On its official Twitter account, General Hospital 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."
Sharing his heartbreak at the news General Hospital alum Rick Springfield said: "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."
"Love to your spirit as it ascends, sweet girl. You left your mark on many of us and you will not be forgotten."
Zeman made her debut on the show back in 1977 and appeared in more than 800 episodes.
As a result of her portrayal of Bobbie, she earned an impressive four Daytime Emmy nominations. She received a fifth nomination after playing Sofia Madison in The Bay.
Born in New Jersey, Zeman originally had an interest in ballet and started training for classical ballet when she was just five years old. She even attended New York University to study dance.
Ultimately, though, she ended up captivating TV audiences for more than four decades.
Zeman also appeared in the shows Sledge Hammer! and Chicago Hope. She is survived by her two daughters, Cassidy Zee and Lacey Rose Gorden.
