Denise Alexander, known for her long-standing role as Dr. Lesley Webber on General Hospital, has died at the age of 85. The show’s executive producer confirmed her death on March 5, 2025, from natural causes.
The news was shared by Frank Valentini on Saturday, May 10, 2025, through an Instagram post that celebrated Alexander’s impactful career in daytime television.
Alexander’s acting career began in the early 1950s. She appeared on Broadway in “The Children’s Hour” and guest-starred on television classics like “Father Knows Best,” “The Twilight Zone,” and “The Danny Kaye Show.” Her career shifted significantly in 1960 when she joined “The Clear Horizon” on CBS.
Alexander’s soap opera career was established prior to her role on “General Hospital.” She gained fame as Susan Hunter Martin on “Days of Our Lives” from 1966 to 1973, establishing her as a notable figure in daytime drama.
Her most notable role was on “General Hospital,” where she played Dr. Lesley Williams (later Webber). This character influenced the portrayal of women in medicine on television. Her final appearance on the ABC soap aired in 2021, concluding a career spanning nearly six decades.
Susan Seaforth Hayes, another soap opera veteran, shared a tribute to Alexander on social media. Hayes, known for her role as Julie Williams on “Days of Our Lives,” remembered her as both a friend and a talented actress.
“Denise Alexander was a friend to treasure and an actress to applaud,” Hayes wrote alongside a photo with her husband Billy Hayes and Alexander. “She was well established on Days when I joined the cast as Julie #4. She watched Billy and I fall madly in love and, being a romantic lady herself, cheered us on.”
Hayes recalled their early years and noted the similarities in their careers, mentioning that they both started as child actors and were raised as Christian Scientists. She expressed her gratitude for Alexander’s wisdom, taste, humor, and kindness, stating that their shared moments were cherished.
The soap opera community felt the impact of Alexander’s passing, with fans sharing their memories and condolences online. Many highlighted her role’s significance during times when professional women were gaining recognition in both television and real life.
Alexander’s character on “General Hospital” was involved in many dramatic storylines, including the well-known Laura and Luke storyline, where she played Laura’s mother. She brought depth to the role of Dr. Lesley Webber, which evolved significantly over her tenure.
Born in New York City, Alexander started her acting career as a child and later transitioned to adult roles in television. She had a prolific career in soap operas but also appeared in primetime television.
Alexander’s long career is a testament to her talent and the connection she made with audiences. Despite the industry’s frequent changes, she maintained a presence that spanned generations, with many fans recalling her character’s growth from a young doctor to a respected medical veteran.
