Jacklyn Zemanthe movie actor who portrayed Barbara “Bobbie” Spencer in more than 800 episodes of “general hospital,” died. She was 70 years old.
Zeman’s death was announced by “General Hospital” executive producer Frank Valentini on Twitter Wednesday night. No further details of his death were immediately available.
“On behalf of our ‘General Hospital’ family, I am heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Jackie Zeman,” 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.”
He continued, “Jackie will be greatly missed, but his positive spirit will always live on with our cast and crew.”
The soap company also released a statement on Zeman’s death.
“Jacklyn Zeman has been a beloved member of ‘General Hospital’ and the ABC Family since originating the iconic role of Bobbie Spencer over 45 years ago,” it read. “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. We are devastated by the news of her passing and send our deepest condolences to family, friends and loved ones of Jackie.
Born in New Jersey on March 6, 1953, Zeman studied ballet as a child and attended New York University to study dance, but turned to acting with her first credit coming on “The Edge of Night” in 1976. The same year, she received a long arc on “One Life to Live”, appearing in over 40 episodes.
She joined “General Hospital” in 1977 and appeared in over 800 episodes over nearly 50 years. She played Bobbie Spencer, the sister of Pat Spencer (Dee Wallace) and Luke Spencer Sr. (Anthony Geary).
Zeman is survived by his two daughters, Cassidy and Lacey.