The news has hit the General Hospital fandom like a wave, as Maurice Benard, the legendary actor who has portrayed the iconic Sonny Corinthos for over three decades, has announced that he will be bidding farewell to the long-running daytime soap opera at the 2025 Nurses Ball. Fans around the world are both heartbroken and nostalgic as they prepare to say goodbye to one of the most beloved characters in General Hospital history.
Since stepping into the role of Sonny in 1993, Maurice Benard has captivated audiences with his intense portrayal of the complex and often contradictory mob boss. Sonny’s journey from a troubled young man to a powerful figure in Port Charles has been a central element of General Hospital‘s many dramatic storylines. Over the years, Benard’s nuanced performance has earned him critical acclaim, including multiple Daytime Emmy nominations and wins, as well as a devoted fanbase that has followed Sonny’s every triumph and heartbreak.
Benard’s portrayal of Sonny has not only made him a soap opera icon but also allowed him to explore deeply emotional and complex aspects of the character. Sonny’s relationships with his family, particularly his children and his wife, Carly, as well as his constant struggle to balance his criminal empire with his personal life, have been central to the series’ emotional core. Benard’s ability to portray the multifaceted nature of Sonny’s character—tough yet vulnerable, ruthless yet loving—has made him one of the most compelling and enduring figures in daytime television.
The news of Benard’s departure has sparked an outpouring of emotions from fans, who have come to view Sonny as more than just a character on screen, but as a friend they’ve watched grow over the years. “It’s hard to put into words how much Sonny means to me, and how much General Hospital and this incredible cast has meant to me throughout my career,” Benard shared in an emotional statement. “But after much thought and consideration, I feel it’s time for me to move on to the next chapter of my life. I want to thank the fans for their unwavering love and support over the years. You’ve made this journey unforgettable.”
The 2025 Nurses Ball, which is set to air in the spring, will be a pivotal event in General Hospital’s history, not only because of the spectacular performances, glamorous fashion, and heartfelt moments it always brings, but also because it will serve as Maurice Benard’s final appearance on the soap opera. Fans are eagerly speculating how Sonny’s storyline will come to an end and what will unfold in this emotional send-off. Whether Sonny will find peace, closure, or face another dramatic twist remains to be seen, but one thing is for certain: it’s going to be a tearful and unforgettable farewell.
Benard’s departure will leave a significant void in General Hospital, and it’s unclear how the show will move forward without its leading man. However, it’s likely that Sonny’s legacy will continue to shape the stories and characters in Port Charles. For over 30 years, Sonny has been a central figure in the drama, and his influence is sure to reverberate even after his departure.
As the Nurses Ball draws near, fans are preparing for an emotional farewell to one of soap opera’s greatest icons. Maurice Benard’s departure marks the end of an era for General Hospital, but his contributions to the show and the impact he has had on the world of daytime television will never be forgotten.
For now, fans can look forward to the final performances, confrontations, and moments of reflection during Sonny Corinthos’s last days in Port Charles. The 2025 Nurses Ball will undoubtedly be a night to remember, as both the characters and the viewers bid farewell to one of the most beloved characters in soap opera history.
Maurice Benard, thank you for giving us the unforgettable Sonny Corinthos. The world of General Hospital will never be the same without you.
