Maurice Benard, the iconic actor known for his portrayal of mob boss Sonny Corinthos on *General Hospital*, has been a cornerstone of the long-running soap opera for decades. 

His intense performances, complex character development, and ability to bring depth to Sonny have earned him a devoted fan base and critical acclaim. 

However, recent revelations from the actor himself have left fans with mixed emotions. 

Maurice Benard has officially opened up about his retirement plans and the timeline for when he intends to bid farewell to *General Hospital*.

For many fans, the idea of Benard leaving the show is bittersweet. 

On one hand, his portrayal of Sonny has been a defining aspect of the show’s success, contributing to some of its most memorable storylines. 

On the other hand, his decision to step away is a natural progression for an actor who has spent a significant portion of his career embodying one character. In a candid discussion, Benard shared his thoughts on retirement, his reasons for eventually stepping away, and what the future holds for both him and his beloved character.

Benard, who first joined *General Hospital* in 1993, has played Sonny Corinthos for over three decades. During this time, he has navigated countless storylines that have challenged and evolved his character, from Sonny’s battles with mental health to his tumultuous relationships and his rise to power as a mob boss. These arcs have allowed Benard to showcase his range as an actor, making Sonny one of the most compelling figures in daytime television. However, even the most dedicated performers must consider when it’s time to move on, and Benard appears to be at that crossroads.

In his statement, Benard revealed that while he remains deeply passionate about acting and his role on the show, he is beginning to think about life beyond *General Hospital*. Retirement, he explained, is not an immediate decision but rather a future milestone that he is planning for. Benard emphasized that he wants to leave the show on his own terms, ensuring that his departure is meaningful both for him and for the fans who have supported him throughout his career.

One of the key factors influencing his retirement plans is his desire to spend more time with his family and explore other creative opportunities. Benard has always been open about his personal life, including his advocacy for mental health awareness, a cause close to his heart. Retirement could offer him the chance to focus on these passions while also pursuing new projects that challenge him in different ways. Whether it’s acting in new roles, writing, or dedicating more time to his podcast and public speaking engagements, Benard’s post-*General Hospital* life promises to be as dynamic as his time on the show.

As for when he plans to leave, Benard hinted at a timeline but stopped short of providing an exact date. He acknowledged that his departure would be a significant moment for the show and expressed his gratitude for the opportunities *General Hospital* has given him over the years. “I’ve been so lucky to play Sonny for as long as I have,” he said, adding that he wants to ensure the character’s exit is handled with care. Whether this means Sonny will ride off into the sunset, face a dramatic end, or leave the door open for a potential return remains to be seen.

Fans have reacted to Benard’s announcement with a mix of sadness and support. While many are heartbroken at the thought of *General Hospital* without Sonny, others understand his need to move on and are excited to see what he does next. Social media has been abuzz with messages of appreciation, as viewers reflect on the impact Benard and his character have had on their lives. Some have even speculated about how the show might handle Sonny’s exit and what it could mean for the future of *General Hospital*.

In the meantime, Benard continues to deliver powerful performances as Sonny, reminding fans why his character has become such an integral part of the show. His retirement plans may signal the end of an era, but they also mark the beginning of a new chapter for both the actor and the series. Whatever the future holds, Maurice Benard’s legacy as Sonny Corinthos is firmly cemented in the hearts of *General Hospital* fans. For now, viewers can cherish every moment he remains on-screen, knowing that his eventual farewell will be as unforgettable as the journey that brought him there.

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