Or at least one of the most famous and beloved daytime dramas of all time is about to undergo a major transformation.
On November 23, Chad Duell, who played Michael Corinthos on General Hospital for 14 years, confirmed that he is leaving the ABC soap opera.
Chad Duell attends the Television Academy Daytime Programming Cocktail Reception at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theater at the Saban Media Center on August 28, 2019 in North Hollywood, California. . (Photo by Rachel Luna/Getty Images)
Actor Duell announced the news in an Instagram post on Saturday, much to the surprise of his fans and followers, writing:
“After many wonderful years on General Hospital, I have decided to step away from the show.
“This was not an easy decision for me, but I feel it is the right time in my life.
“I could not be more grateful to Frank Valentini, the cast, crew, and everyone behind the scenes who have treated me like family during this incredible journey.”
Duell did not reveal the details of the decision, but it sounds like the breakup is amicable.
Duell concluded his statement with a message to his supporters.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your unwavering support and for making Michael Corinthos a part of your lives,” he wrote.
“Your love and encouragement meant so much to me. This is not goodbye, let’s meet again.”
PASADENA, CA – APRIL 27: Actor Chad Duell attends the 45th Annual Daytime Creative Arts Emmy Awards held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on April 27, 2018 in Pasadena, California. Attended. (Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images) (Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images)
Duell appeared in an episode of The CW’s Arrow in 2020, and appeared in The Suite Life on Deck and Wizards of Waverly Place in 2008.
He has been nominated for seven Daytime Emmy Awards, most recently for Best Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama Series in 2023.
He won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2015.
Meanwhile, General Hospital producer Frank Valentini announced on Twitter over the weekend that there are “no plans to recast.” [Duell’s] This is my role at this time. ”
“I have loved working with Chad over the years and wish him all the best. He was a great actor and will be missed by everyone at #GH,” Valentini wrote on social media. I wrote this.
“There are no plans to recast his role at this time, but we won’t know until the day comes. We can promise a great story for Michael and his family as Chad retires in the new year.”
