A big change is coming to the daytime drama.
Or, at least, one of the most famous and beloved daytime dramas of all time is about to undergo a major change.
On November 23, Chad Duell – who has played Michael Corinthos on General Hospital for 14 years – confirmed that he was stepping away from the ABC soap opera.
Actor Duell surprised fans and followers immensely when he announced the news in an Instagram post on Saturday, writing:
“After many incredible years with General Hospital, I have decided to step away from the show.
“This was not an easy decision for me, but it feels like it is the right time in my life.
“I am so grateful to Frank Valentini, the cast, crew and everyone behind the scenes who have been like family to me during this amazing journey.”
It seems as if the split is amicable, although Duell did not provide any further details behind their decision.
Duell concluded his statement with a message for his supporters.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your unwavering support and for making Michael Corinthos a part of your life,” she wrote.
“Your love and encouragement means a lot to me. This is not goodbye – see you later.”
Duell appeared in an episode of The CW’s Arrow in 2020 and in the 2008 installments of The Suite Life on Deck and Wizards of Waverly Place.
He is a seven-time Daytime Emmy nominee, most recently earning a nomination in 2023 for Outstanding Performance by a Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama Series.
He won a Daytime Emmy in 2015 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.
Meanwhile, General Hospital creator Frank Valentini revealed on Twitter over the weekend, “There are no plans to recast [Duell’s] role at this time.”
“I have loved working with Chad over the years and wish him nothing but the best. He is a fantastic actor and will be missed by everyone on #GH,” Valentini wrote on social media.
“There are no plans to reprise his role at this time, but you never know in daytime. I can promise a great story for Michael and his family when Chad walks out in the New Year.”