General Hospital Spoilers | Donna Critical After Attack, Sonny Retires Out of Regret

General Hospital spoilers reveal that one of the emerging ideas related to the current storyline involves a significant shift in Sonny Corinthos’ character.

The writers have started steering Sonny down a darker path, returning to his mafia roots after years of softening his image. The once-restrained Port Charles crime boss is becoming increasingly ruthless, more emotionally unstable, and willing to use violence directly rather than through intermediaries as he once did.

Recent scenes show Sonny confronting his adversaries head-on, making outright threats, and even handling betrayers personally—an obvious departure from the businessman image he has tried to build in recent years. These changes not only affect the dynamics between Sonny and other characters on the show but also present new acting challenges for Maurice Benard, who has portrayed the character for over three decades.

The new scenes require Maurice to delve into the darker aspects of Sonny that he hasn’t had to confront in a long time. This demands a level of emotional and physical intensity that can be difficult for an actor who has been in the role for so many years.

As part of the storyline, Sonny’s bipolar disorder is also being explored more deeply. Developments indicate that Sonny has stopped taking his medication, leading to a new period of chaos. This situation has made Maurice Benard consider the possibility of retiring.

The storyline explores how Sonny copes with his bipolar disorder without the support of medication, leading to increasingly unstable and dangerous behaviors. This is particularly difficult for Maurice, who has publicly shared his own struggles with bipolar disorder in real life.

Insider sources reveal that Maurice has expressed exhaustion with the emotional intensity required for the new scenes, especially in portraying the symptoms of bipolar disorder—a condition he personally faces. Having to immerse himself in Sonny’s unstable mental state day after day could take a toll on Maurice’s own mental health, as he has worked hard over the years to maintain balance in his personal life.

At the age of 60, Maurice Benard has begun to seriously consider leaving the show to focus on personal projects, particularly his podcast State of Mind, where he discusses mental health. This podcast has become an important platform for Maurice to raise awareness about mental health issues and help those struggling with similar challenges. Dedicating all his time and energy to this project could allow him to make a more significant positive impact and reach more people with his message.

Furthermore, Maurice has also expressed a desire to spend more time with his family, especially his grandchildren. The demanding filming schedule of a long-running series like General Hospital makes it difficult to maintain a work-life balance. After decades of sacrifice, Maurice may feel it’s time to prioritize his loved ones.

Behind the Scenes Chaos at General Hospital

This has caused major upheaval behind the scenes of General Hospital, with producers hurriedly preparing contingency scripts in case Maurice decides to leave. An emergency meeting between producers, writers, and ABC executives was held to discuss potential scenarios and how the show could continue without the iconic character of Sonny Corinthos.

Some sources reveal that they are considering several options. These include:

• Recasting Sonny with a new actor, a highly risky decision given Maurice’s three-decade-long association with the role.

• Writing a storyline where Sonny leaves Port Charles, possibly retiring to a remote location or pursuing business opportunities elsewhere, leaving the door open for Maurice to return in the future.

• Kɪʟʟɪɴɢ off Sonny permanently, a shocking twist that could lead to intriguing new storylines but would also prevent Maurice from returning.

Each option presents challenges and risks. Finding a new actor to take on the role of Sonny could result in backlash from fans who have known Maurice as the character for over 30 years. However, this would allow Sonny to remain a central figure in the show.

Having Sonny leave Port Charles would be a safer choice, as it wouldn’t require an immediate recast or alienate fans. It would also allow the show to move in new directions while keeping the possibility of Maurice’s return open.

The most controversial option—ending Sonny’s story tragically—would create a major shock for viewers. However, it would permanently close the door on Maurice returning and could trigger negative reactions from longtime fans.

Fans React to Maurice Benard’s Possible Departure

Fans are divided. Some support Maurice’s decision to retire after decades of dedicated work, while others cannot imagine General Hospital without Sonny Corinthos.

Online forums and social media are filled with discussions about the character’s future. Many fans fear that Maurice’s departure could mark the beginning of General Hospital’s decline. Some argue that he deserves a break and should be free to pursue other projects without criticism. Others worry that no actor can replace Maurice and that the show will never be the same without him.

Whatever the final outcome, General Hospital is at a major crossroads. Maurice Benard’s decision will shape the future of America’s longest-running soap opera.

With over 60 years on the air, General Hospital has undergone many changes and transitions. But the potential departure of one of its most iconic characters will surely mark the end of an era.

As we await official word from Maurice Benard or ABC, one thing is certain: Whether Sonny Corinthos continues to exist or not, the legacy of this character—and Maurice Benard’s extraordinary talent—will forever be a part of television history.