Laura Lynn “Bergen” Williams, known for playing Big Alice Gunderson on “General Hospital,” has died. She was 62.
The soap opera star passed away after a battle with Wilson’s disease, a rare, inherited condition that causes copper to accumulate in vital organs including the brain. While treatable if diagnosed early, the disease can cause liver failure, kidney problems and death.
Williams succumbed to the illness July 20, her sister said via Twitter, but the family has only chosen to share the news publicly this month.
“Bergen Williams succumbed to the ravages of Wilson’s Disease surrounded by loving family,” reads a post captioned “Rest in Power Bergen Williams” by a Twitter account claiming to be run by her sister. “Bergen was a writer, inventor and actress who played Big Alice on the TV soap ‘General Hospital.’ ”
Williams’ other credits include appearances in “7th Heaven,” “NYPD Blue,” “Scrubs” and “Nip/Tuck.” She appeared in the beloved ABC soap — which premiered in 1963 and is still being produced, making it the longest-running American soap opera and the longest-running Hollywood-produced serial in production — from 2002 to 2015.
After her sister’s announcement of Williams’ passing, social media was flooded by fans recalling how much they loved her character on the show.
“Alice was ALWAYS a welcomed sight. She brought much humor to her scenes. Loved her with the Qs and Luke. Rest in peace,” one wrote.
“No…….this is heartbreaking. Rest well Bergen Williams. Thank you for sharing your talent and helping make watching the Q’s on GH so entertaining. You will be greatly missed,” wrote another.
Others recalled Big Alice’s secret secondary identity as a wrestler named the Dominator and how “Alice relished it when someone recognized her alter ego.”
