General Hospital (GH) spoilers reveal that Monica Quartermaine’s (Leslie Charleson) absence has become a big topic among fans. GH writers have come up with many excuses to explain why Monica’s off-screen, but the real reason involves Charleson’s medical issues.

Charleson has dealt with some tough falls in recent years, so that’s made it difficult for the 79-year-old actress to bounce back.

Viewers may recall that Charleson had to be temporarily replaced with Patty McCormack after a leg injury back in 2018.

Holly Kaplan also popped up as a Monica recast for one episode in 2022, so there have been some fill-in actresses along the way.

Leslie Charleson made her last appearance as Monica Quartermaine back in December 2023 – and now a source close to the situation indicates her exit may be permanent.

That source talked to Closer Weekly about Charleson having trouble getting around and suggested she wasn’t eager to push herself too hard.

That said, Charleson is “doing OK under the circumstances” and was spotted on a lunch outing in Los Angeles recently.

Charleson was seen using a walker and had a caregiver, but she was obviously enjoying a nice meal and a day of fun.

The insider indicated that Charleson was still hanging out with friends and keeping up her social life, so that’s good to know!

However, Charleson wants to take it easy, so the odds of her reprising the role of Monica are slim.

“Although she’d be welcome back to the show with open arms, it’s unlikely she’ll ever return,” the source said.

Of course, Leslie Charleson is practically soap royalty, so GH isn’t looking to recast at this point. Monica will simply remain off-screen for the foreseeable future.

A set-side insider told SOD that the show plans to leave the role vacant in case Charleson ever does decide to make a comeback.

We’ll be sure to pass along any Monica updates if additional news becomes available.

General Hospital spoilers say the show must go on, so stick with us for more predictions on how Monica’s absence will continue to be addressed on-screen.

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