For over 14 years, Chad Duell has been a prominent face on the ABC soap opera General Hospital, captivating audiences as Michael Corinthos, a central figure in the series. However, fans were met with unexpected news when Duell announced his departure from the beloved show.
His decision marks the end of an era for the character and the actor’s longstanding journey on the iconic daytime drama. Duell’s portrayal of Corinthos, the son of A.J. Quartermaine (Sean Kanan) and Carly Spencer (Laura Wright), began in 2010 and has since become a defining role in his career.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Duell shared the news with his followers, expressing his gratitude and explaining his choice.
“After many incredible years with General Hospital, I’ve decided to step away from the show,” he wrote. “This wasn’t an easy decision for me, but it feels like the right time in my life.”
The actor’s words resonated with fans, as they reflected on his contributions to the series and the character he brought to life with depth and complexity.
Duell took the opportunity to acknowledge the people who had been instrumental in his journey. He expressed his appreciation for executive producer Frank Valentini, the cast, and the crew, describing them as family. His gratitude extended to everyone behind the scenes who had supported him throughout his tenure.
This sentiment underscored the close-knit environment that has long characterized the production of General Hospital.
The actor’s time on the show was marked by significant achievements, including a Daytime Emmy Award in 2015 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. This accolade highlighted his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Through the years, Duell’s portrayal of Michael Corinthos has tackled complex storylines that have left a lasting impact on the show’s fans and its legacy.
Frank Valentini, General Hospital’s executive producer, confirmed Duell’s departure on X (formerly Twitter), sharing his thoughts on the actor’s contributions. Valentini expressed admiration for Duell’s work over the years, calling him a “terrific actor” and wishing him the best in his future endeavors. His message reflected the deep respect and fondness the team at General Hospital has for Duell.
While Valentini assured fans that there are no immediate plans to recast Michael Corinthos, he also left the door open, noting that “you never know in daytime.”
The announcement stirred curiosity among fans about the future of the character and the storyline developments that might follow Duell’s exit. Valentini promised an engaging narrative for Michael and his family as the show transitions into this new chapter.
Duell took a moment in his announcement to express his appreciation for the fans who have supported him over the years. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your unwavering support and for letting Michael Corinthos be a part of your lives,” he wrote. His words, filled with warmth and sincerity, emphasized the bond he has shared with the audience throughout his tenure on the show.
The actor reassured fans that his departure does not signify a permanent goodbye. “This isn’t a goodbye—it’s a see you later,” Duell wrote, ending his post with a note of optimism.
His message left the door open for potential future projects or even a return to the role that made him a household name. The connection he has built with his audience over the years remains strong.
On a personal note, Duell is stepping into a new chapter of his life as a father. Last September, he and his partner, Luana Lucci, welcomed their first child, a son named Dawson.
Sharing his joy on Instagram, Duell wrote, “Welcome to the world lil Dawson 👶🏻 Been quite the journey… can’t wait to see the great man you become 🙌🏻.” The post reflected the actor’s excitement about this transformative phase in his life.
As Chad Duell embarks on new ventures, both personally and professionally, his legacy on General Hospital will undoubtedly endure. His portrayal of Michael Corinthos has left an indelible mark on the show’s history, and his departure signals the end of an unforgettable era. Fans and colleagues alike will cherish his contributions and look forward to seeing what lies ahead for the talented actor.
