Leslie Charleson

Born in Kansas City, MO, Leslie Charleson knew at an early age that she wanted to act and made her way to New York City. There, she jumped into daytime and even garnered her first Emmy nomination. But it’s her classic commercial for Pearl Drops toothpaste that Charleson credits as her true entry into show business. Immediately after that gig, which she accepted without permission from her agent — Oscar-winning director Mike Nichols cast her in the movie The Day of the Dolphin. Once filming wrapped, the actress tried out Broadway in the play One Night Stand with Tony Curtis and William Devane. The show folded soon after, and Charleson headed for Hollywood. In Los Angeles, the actress guest-starred on more than 20 television series, but she eventually returned to her soap roots and took on the role of Monica Quartermaine, which she has played since 1977. Her official Web site is www.lesliecharleson.net.