Jacklyn Zeman, best known for her role as Bobbie Spencer onGeneral Hospital, has died. She was 70.
Frank Valentini, the soap opera’s executive producer, announced her death on Twitter on Wednesday night.
“On behalf of our@GeneralHospitalfamily, I am heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved@JackieZeman,” Valentini said. “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.”
“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.#GH,” he added.
Zeman first joined the cast ofGeneral Hospitalin 1977 and went on to appear in 880 episodes,according to IMDb. She was nominated for a Daytime Emmy four times for her role in the soap opera and once forplaying Sofia Madison inThe Bay.
Steven Simione/Getty
In a statement posted to Twitter,General Hospitalsaid Zeman has been a member of their family for more than 45 years.
Michael Bezjian/WireImage
Rick Springfield, who made his showbiz debut playing Dr. Noah Drake onGeneral Hospital, told PEOPLE he is “incredibly stunned and broken-hearted to hear of Jackie’s passing,” adding that he is grateful for Zeman, who he credits with launching his career.
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
“Such a truly kind soul with no touch of the diva and only sweet things to say about everyone,” Springfield, 73, said. “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.”
source: people.com
