General Hospital fans are stunned after Maurice Benard finally revealed his official plans for retirement. The beloved actor, who has portrayed Sonny Corinthos for decades, confirmed he’s nearing the end of his journey—leaving viewers heartbroken and wondering how much longer Port Charles will have its iconic mob boss.
General Hospital Star Maurice Benard Drops the Bombshell
Maurice Benard just shook General Hospital fans to their core. In a candid chat with Richard Taite, the daytime legend revealed that while the rumors of illness are false, his retirement talks are very real. And yes, the clock on Sonny’s reign might be ticking.
Benard stated that he has “a year left” on his contract and is seriously eyeing retirement by 65. Currently 62, that means fans could be saying goodbye to Sonny within just three years. The admission has fans emotional, as Benard’s honesty signals that the end may be closer than anyone imagined.
Why the Decision Feels So Emotional for Fans
For three decades, Maurice Benard’s Sonny Corinthos has been the beating heart of General Hospital. His struggles with family, loyalty, and inner demons have shaped countless storylines—and viewers can’t picture Port Charles without him. Losing Sonny feels like losing a piece of the show’s soul.
Benard confessed that the mental toll of portraying such a layered, emotionally heavy role is significant. He’s given everything to the character, but the pressure of embodying Sonny’s darkness for so long is hard to carry. His decision, while heartbreaking, reflects his need for peace and balance beyond the set.
A New Chapter Beyond the Mob World On General Hospital
Even with his General Hospital future uncertain, Benard isn’t stepping out of the spotlight completely. His YouTube series, State of Mind, continues to flourish with over 155,000 subscribers. The series allows him to share his experiences, advocate for mental health, and inspire fans on a deeper level.
He also emphasized that he’s in a good place personally and financially. This new chapter could give him time to focus on other passions while staying connected with the fans who have supported him since his first day in Port Charles.
Will Sonny’s Story Get a Legendary Farewell?
Now that Maurice Benard’s official plans are out, fans are already speculating how General Hospital will handle Sonny’s exit. Will he get the heroic goodbye he deserves—or will the mob world swallow him one last time? With his current feud with Jenz Sidwell heating up, the stakes are high.
It’s clear that when Sonny leaves, it won’t be quietly. Fans are preparing for one of the most emotional departures in soap history. But many are still clinging to hope that Benard might change his mind—because General Hospital just wouldn’t be the same without its kingpin.
Maurice Benard’s official plans for retirement have sent shockwaves through the General Hospital fandom. With just a year left on his contract, the countdown to Sonny’s possible farewell has begun. For now, fans are cherishing every scene—because Port Charles may never be the same again. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for the latest updates and exclusive General Hospital news.