In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples through the General Hospital fanbase, Maurice Benard, the iconic actor behind the character of Sonny Corinthos, has hinted at his potential exit from the show. During a candid interview on the Soapie podcast, Benard, who has portrayed the mob boss for over three decades, expressed his uncertainty about continuing in the role, suggesting that retirement may be on the horizon as soon as November 2025.
At 62, Benard’s frank admission about his mental health struggles and the toll of long-term acting has left fans heartbroken. “I don’t know if I can last that long,” he confessed, indicating that he may only have a couple of years left in him. This timeline aligns with industry speculation that significant casting changes often occur during sweeps periods, raising alarms among viewers who have grown to love his complex portrayal of Sonny.
Benard’s journey with General Hospital has been anything but smooth. He revealed that he quit the show just two weeks after starting in 1993 due to a personal crisis involving a nervous breakdown. However, the show’s unwavering support helped him forge a lasting bond with the character and the audience. “I’ll know when it’s time to retire,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to prioritizing mental health.
Current storylines have only intensified speculation regarding Benard’s exit. Sonny has faced a series of life-threatening scenarios, from mob conflicts to health scares, leading fans to wonder if the writers are setting the stage for a dramatic farewell. The possibility of a heroic sacrifice or a peaceful retirement for Sonny looms large, echoing Benard’s own contemplation of life beyond the soap opera.
As fans grapple with the impending change, reactions have been mixed. While many express understanding and support for Benard’s mental health priorities, others mourn the potential loss of a character that has become synonymous with General Hospital. Social media is abuzz with speculation, particularly following the recent departures of other longtime cast members, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty about the show’s future.
November 2025 stands as a pivotal moment for both Benard and General Hospital. It could mark the end of an era that began in 1993, allowing the writers to craft a meaningful farewell during a high-viewership period. Whether Sonny rides off into the sunset or meets a more dramatic end, one thing is clear: Maurice Benard’s legacy in daytime television is unparalleled, and his departure would signal a seismic shift in the landscape of General Hospital.
As fans await further developments, one thing remains certain: the impact of Maurice Benard and his portrayal of Sonny Corinthos will endure long after the final curtain falls in Port Charles. The clock is ticking, and viewers can only hold their breath as they navigate the uncertain waters ahead.
