When Chad Duell took to Instagram on November 23 to announce his General Hospital exit, it took the soap world by surprise. After all, Duell had been playing legacy character Michael Corinthos since 2010 and never gave any indication he would leave the soap.
Chad Duell Rocked the GH World
Duell was gracious when he shared his goodbye to GH in November.
“After many incredible years with General Hospital, I’ve decided to step away from the show,” Duell wrote. “This wasn’t an easy decision for me, but it feels like the right time in my life. I’m beyond grateful to Frank Valentini, the cast, crew, and everyone behind the scenes who have been like family to me throughout this amazing journey. To all the fans: thank you from the bottom of my heart for your unwavering support and for letting Michael Corinthos be a part of your lives. Your love and encouragement have meant the world to me :). This isn’t a goodbye—it’s a see you later.”
Recently, Duell appeared on The Daily Drama Podcast with Steve Burton and Bradford Anderson to explain his decision further. One reason was related to the death of Duell’s father.
“A lot of stuff has been going on in my life,” Duell said. “As people know, my dad passed away and I’m still coming to terms with that, also, my intention was to spend some time back in Arizona but that’s becoming a little harder to do. Right now, I’m just more about doing things mentally, physically, preparing myself for whatever comes.”
Duell also just felt it was time for a change after nearly 15 years in the same role.
“I feel like I had a very strong complacency and comfort for such a long time that my identity was wrapped up in that, and who I was with the show (and) this character that I’ve done for so long.”
What Happens to Michael now?
Although Duell and Executive Producer Frank Valentini have not ruled out a return for Michael down the line, the character will be written out for now and not recast.
According to TV Insider, Michael is going to go out in a spectacular way in the coming month.
“Drew and Willow’s affair has Michael’s family crumbling around him,” GH Head Writer Elizabeth Korte said. “But he doesn’t take their transgression lying down. He’s ready to fight back — when a shocking act of violence has his plans go up in smoke.”
Stay tuned to find out how this act of violence takes place…
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