**Breaking News: Maurice Benard Exits ABC’s General Hospital to Champion Mental Health Advocacy**

In a shocking turn of events, Maurice Benard, the iconic actor known for his role as Sonny Corinthos on ABC’s long-running soap opera General Hospital, has announced his departure from the show after an astounding 32-year tenure. The beloved star is stepping away to focus on his mental health advocacy platform, State of Mind, a decision that promises to reshape the landscape of daytime television forever.

At 62, Benard faced a crossroads that many would find daunting. The actor, who has captivated audiences with his portrayal of the complex mob boss, has been candid about his ongoing battle with bipolar disorder. In recent months, the pressures of a demanding filming schedule took a toll on his mental health, prompting him to reassess his priorities. After taking a rare two-week hiatus earlier this year, Benard realized he needed to make a significant change.

In a heartfelt conversation with his wife, Paula, Benard expressed his frustration with the limitations of daytime storytelling and his desire to expand the reach of his mental health advocacy. “There are millions of people struggling with mental health issues who never get a platform,” he stated. His vision for State of Mind includes taking the conversation to the streets, connecting with everyday people facing real battles, and amplifying voices often overlooked.

As the September 2025 storyline unfolded on General Hospital, Benard’s character, Sonny, found himself grappling with health issues and contemplating his legacy, mirroring the actor’s own journey. In a poignant scene that felt almost prophetic, Sonny delivered a message about prioritizing family and stepping away from violence, a reflection of Benard’s own decision to shift his focus.

The industry response has been overwhelmingly supportive yet bittersweet. Fellow actors and the show’s writing team are crafting an exit storyline that honors Sonny’s legacy while allowing for potential future appearances. “Maurice deserves an exit worthy of his three decades on the show,” co-headwriter Elizabeth Court remarked. The storyline will depict Sonny making a conscious choice to step away from the mob life, paralleling Benard’s commitment to mental health advocacy.

With his decision solidified, Benard is diving headfirst into expanding State of Mind. The first episode under his new vision is set to film in downtown Los Angeles, where he will engage with individuals facing homelessness and mental health challenges. “We’re not exploiting anyone’s pain for views,” he emphasized. “We’re giving voice to people society often ignores.”

As fans of General Hospital grapple with the news of Benard’s departure, they are also buzzing about the show’s current plot twists, including a shocking murder investigation and a brutal shooting that has left Port Charles on edge. However, the focus remains firmly on Benard’s courageous leap into a new chapter of his life, one that promises to make a significant impact on mental health awareness.

As Maurice Benard prepares to leave the set of General Hospital, he is not just closing a chapter; he is opening a new door to a mission that could save lives. “This isn’t the end of our conversations,” he told viewers. “This is just the beginning of taking those conversations where they’re needed most.”

In the coming months, Benard will transition from a beloved soap opera star to one of America’s leading mental health advocates, proving that sometimes the most important decision isn’t about what you’re leaving behind, but what you’re moving toward. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to unfold.