The soap opera world is abuzz with a shocking announcement that promises to change the landscape of Port Charles forever. After an incredible 32-year run as the iconic mob boss Sonny Corinthos, beloved actor Maurice Benard has made a life-altering decision that will have a profound impact on ABC’s General Hospital. In a raw and emotional social media post, Benard confirmed the rumors: he will be retiring from the show in early 2026 when his current contract expires.

This decision, while heartbreaking for fans, didn’t come lightly for the 62-year-old actor. Increasingly candid about his mental health struggles and the grueling demands of daytime television, Benard has been signaling this change for some time. In a revealing interview on a recent podcast, he shared his honest thoughts, admitting, “I don’t know, in all honesty, if I can last that long… I don’t think mentally if I can keep going that long.” For Benard, who has been remarkably transparent about his journey with bipolar disorder, a full-time commitment to the rigorous schedule of a daytime drama has become a concern. Earlier in 2025, he even took an unprecedented two-week hiatus—a first in over three decades—to prioritize his well-being.

Benard’s openness about his mental health has been as impactful as his on-screen work. Through his successful YouTube series, “State of Mind,” he has used his platform to advocate for mental health awareness, helping countless viewers feel seen and understood. His decision to step back is a powerful testament to the same self-care he champions, demonstrating that even a television legend knows when it’s time to put his own health first.

The Impossible Task for Frank Valentini

The news has sent shockwaves to General Hospital’s executive producer, Frank Valentini, who now faces an unprecedented dilemma. The character of Sonny Corinthos has been the undeniable heart of the show since 1993. His complex relationships, from his fiery romances with Brenda Barrett and Carly Benson to his intricate family dynamics, have consistently driven ratings and defined the modern era of the show. Valentini has always been a staunch supporter of Benard, particularly concerning his mental health needs. However, the task of preparing for the departure of a character so central to the show’s identity is an immense challenge.

The question on everyone’s mind is how the show will handle his exit. As Benard’s farewell approaches, two primary scenarios have emerged.

Death: The most dramatic option would be to permanently write the character out by killing him off. Given Sonny’s life as a mob kingpin, a violent or tragic exit would be fitting and provide narrative closure. This would also prevent the need to recast an iconic role that, for many, is synonymous with Benard.
Recast: The second option is to recast the role. While General Hospital has successfully recast other major characters, such as Michael Corinthos, this would be a monumental challenge. Maurice Benard has been the only actor to portray Sonny throughout his 32-year history, making him uniquely irreplaceable in the eyes of the show’s loyal fan base.

Recent storylines have been carefully laying the groundwork for Sonny’s exit. The character has been dealing with health issues, including alarming chest pains, and grappling with an existential crisis that could lead him to step away from the mob world. The show has also been positioning potential successors within his organization, hinting at what a post-Sonny Port Charles might look like.

The End of an Era

Maurice Benard’s three Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series speak to his exceptional talent, but his true legacy goes far beyond the trophies. Through his powerful portrayal of Sonny and his genuine advocacy for mental health, Benard has touched countless lives both on and off-screen.

As General Hospital prepares for its future, the show faces its biggest test in decades. Sonny’s departure will require a significant narrative restructuring, and the writing team is now tasked with crafting a farewell story worthy of both the character and the actor who brought him to life. When Benard takes his final bow, he won’t just be saying goodbye to Sonny Corinthos; he’ll be closing a chapter that has defined daytime television for over three decades.