Actress/writer Mary Pat Gleason has died at the age of 70 from cancer after a long and successful career on both coasts, in both primetime and daytime — in different ways.
Mary Pat Gleason Has Passed Away
Mary Pat Gleason was born on February 23, 1950, in Lake City, Minnesota. Her career began in New York City, where she appeared on Guiding Light. Veteran GL fans recall Gleason in the role of Jane, Alexandra Spaulding’s companion, from 1984-85.
She exited Springfield after a two-year recurring stint, but stayed on with the show behind the scenes as one of the program’s writers. Gleason was part of GL’s 1986 Daytime Emmy-winning writing team lead by Pamela K. Long.
Gleason also appeared on the soap Texas as Doris in 1982 and on General Hospital as Mother Superior in 2002. In 2007, she played a witch on Passions. She wasn’t the only familiar face in the story beat that brought her to Harmony. Judith McConnell (ex-Sophia, Santa Barbara) and Marsha Clark (ex-Hillary, GL) appeared alongside Gleason. She amassed over 170 credits over the span of her career.
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The actress worked consistently after moving to Hollywood, appearing in numerous films and TV series. She had roles in the feature films Defending Your Life, Soapdish, and Lorenzo’s Oil. Gleason had single episode guest spots on such series as ER, The Five Mrs. Buchanans, and many others. She had recurring roles on many series, most recently appearing on Mom as Mary.
Sex and the City fans recall her as a department store clerk who insisted that Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) try on a different sized bra when she was shopping for one to wear to her mother’s funeral. Miranda broke down as Gleason’s character, Lucille, comforted the grieving daughter.
Gleason was pals with Marianne Muellerleile (ex-Norma, Passions), who took to Instagram to pay tribute to her late friend. “To my cherished best pal of 47 years rest in glorious peace dear MARY PAT GLEASON,” Muellerleile posted, adding, “2-23-50 to 6-2-20. Not goodbye but…until latter . #marypatgleason #restinpeace #bestfriend #sotalented #soloving #sohilarious #rip #godsnewestangel #actorslife #actors #actresses #actress.”
Entertainment Hub sends sincere condolences to Gleason’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.
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