‘The Bay’ to Honor Late Soap Star Jackie Zeman: How to Watch

Remembered fondly for her role as Bobbie Spencer on General Hospital, Jackie Zeman also left an indelible mark on the online soap The Bay. The forthcoming Season 9 of this digital series will feature a special tribute to the late actress.

Jackie Zeman joined General Hospital in 1977, portraying Bobbie Spencer, the sister of the show’s anti-hero, Luke Spencer (Tony Geary). She was part of several memorable and award-winning storylines. One notable plot involved the tragic death of Bobbie’s daughter B.J., whose heart was then donated to Maxie.

In 2023, fans were saddened by the news of Jackie Zeman’s passing after a short battle with cancer. Instead of recasting Bobbie’s role, General Hospital decided to write the character off by having her pass away off-screen. This narrative decision allowed the show to honor Zeman’s significant contributions over the years.

Brighton Hertford, who portrayed B.J. in the impactful 1994 storyline, returned for this heartfelt tribute. Although Zeman was still part of the General Hospital cast at the time of her death, her presence on-screen had been significantly reduced.

The Bay has also planned a touching gesture for Zeman. She was an original cast member of the series when it debuted in 2010, playing the character Sophia Madison, a Southern belle. In her honor, the soap has dedicated an entire episode named “Sofia,” centering on her character.

This tribute will include several of Zeman’s former GH co-stars. Dee Wallace, who appeared on General Hospital in 2015 as Bobbie and Luke’s older sister Patricia, will reprise a similar sisterly role on The Bay as Sofia’s sister. Leigh McCloskey, once a husband to Bobbie Spencer on General Hospital, will feature as Hank Henderson, Sofia’s first husband. Interestingly, some dialogue from McCloskey’s character was inspired by Zeman’s own daughters, Cassidy and Lacey Rose.

A critical storyline in General Hospital involved Bobbie discovering she had a daughter, Carly. While Laura Wright currently plays Carly, Tamara Braun held the role from 2001 to 2005 and maintained a close bond with Zeman after her departure from the show. Braun will also participate in the tribute episode, portraying a woman who experiences a life-changing event because of Sofia.

Fans can look forward to the tribute episode this September. The Bay airs on Popstar! TV, with previous seasons available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon, Tubi, and Peacock.

Source: Variety, Popstar! TV