Maurice Benard’s recent comments about his time on General Hospital have fans asking one big question: is Sonny leaving? With over three decades on the show, Benard’s retirement hints have stirred concerns in Port Charles.
Maurice Benard Opens Up About His Timeline On General Hospital
In a candid interview on the Soapy podcast, Maurice Benard didn’t hold back. When asked if he could see himself acting into his 80s, he admitted that it might not be possible—mentally or physically. Unlike his daytime peers John McCook or Eric Braeden, Benard feels unsure about pushing those limits.
The General Hospital star shared that he’s currently 62 and can see himself working another “couple of years, three years,” before reevaluating. That simple sentence has left fans wondering: is Sonny’s exit inevitable within the next four years?
Benard was quick to clarify—it’s not about desire or loyalty. It’s about being mentally fit for the job. “If I can’t act at at least 90 percent, I shouldn’t be doing it,” he said, emphasizing the pressure he places on himself to maintain performance quality.
Mental Health Is Key to Benard’s Decision
Mental health isn’t just a buzzword for Maurice Benard—it’s the cornerstone of his career choices. He was honest on the podcast about how he’ll know when it’s time to step away. “I’ll know from mental health,” he explained, stressing that his well-being will guide his next move.
Benard has long been open about his mental health journey. In a 2024 Woman’s World interview, he revealed that a severe bout of anxiety left him unsure if he’d ever return to the set. He took two weeks off—a rare move for the actor—and during that time, he questioned everything. The anxiety was so overwhelming that he couldn’t sleep, and both his body and mind suffered.
That experience clearly changed his perspective. It’s not surprising now that he’s thinking ahead. Even fans who love seeing Sonny on General Hospital every day may understand that long-term mental health comes first.
What If Sonny Exits General Hospital?
Benard’s words don’t signal an immediate departure. He’s still deeply committed to General Hospital. But they do plant the seed: what happens when Sonny eventually leaves Port Charles?
The show has always revolved around core families—and Sonny Corinthos is central to nearly all major storylines. A future without him is hard to imagine, but it’s something producers and fans may need to prepare for.
Whether it’s three years or four, Benard’s exit would mark the end of an era. However, knowing he plans to leave on his own terms and at his best is something longtime viewers can respect.
Maurice Benard Still Has Passions Beyond Acting
Though acting has defined his life for decades, Benard has interests that might shape his retirement years. He joked that if he weren’t an actor, he would have been a boxer or lawyer—two jobs he finds endlessly compelling.
He’s also a major fan of true-crime shows like Dateline and 20/20, as well as documentaries on Netflix. Clearly, his curiosity and drive won’t disappear once he steps off set.
For now, Benard remains an active part of General Hospital. But his eyes are set on a horizon where life slows down, and peace takes priority.
General Hospital may not lose Sonny Corinthos tomorrow, but Maurice Benard’s words are a soft warning. He’s thinking ahead, and fans should too. He’s given his all—and still plans to—for at least a few more years. So while we may worry, we can still enjoy every scene while it lasts. For the latest General Hospital updates, stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily.