On this day, May 9, we remember the passing of Jacklyn Zeman, a cherished figure on General Hospital who portrayed Barbara Jean “Bobbie” Spencer for over 45 years. Laura Wright, who plays Bobbie’s daughter on screen, recently shared her thoughts on the tribute that GH paid to both Zeman and her character during Coastal Entertainment’s Ladies of GH event.
Reflecting on the experience, Wright expressed the sentiment that Zeman’s memory should always be honored. She recalled the challenging week when they filmed Bobbie’s death scenes on New Year’s Eve. Despite the intensity of the filming schedule, with nine episodes shot within just four days, Wright noted that the entire cast felt the weight of the emotional storyline throughout the week.
Wright particularly emphasized the significance of the funeral scenes for Bobbie, where Zeman’s presence was deeply felt. She described how Zeman’s photo adorned the set, and the atmosphere resonated with the spirit of the actress. Despite the heaviness of the scenes, Wright shared a touching moment when they all left work one day and were greeted by a beautiful rainbow, adding a sense of magic to the occasion.
Acknowledging the emotional toll of filming such scenes, Wright explained how the cast coped with the intensity of their emotions. She described the process of decompressing after filming, highlighting the importance of finding a balance between letting go of the emotions and retaining them to maintain continuity in their performances.
Overall, Wright’s reflections offer insight into the profound impact of Zeman’s legacy on the General Hospital community and the cathartic experience of paying tribute to her character.
