The actress, who played Dr. Lesley Webber for nearly five decades, passed away on Wednesday, March 5, from causes unknown, although her death was only announced on Friday, May 9.

General Hospital showrunner Frank Valentini shared the news of Denise’s passing on X, writing: “I am so very sorry to hear of Denise Alexander’s passing.

“She broke barriers on-screen and off, portraying Dr. Lesley Webber – one of the first female doctors on Daytime Television – for nearly five decades.”

He continued: “It meant so much to have her reprise her role in recent years and I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with her.