After over a decade of playing Michael Corinthos on General Hospital, Chad Duell’s unexpected exit has left fans with more questions than answers. The actor, beloved for his portrayal of the charismatic yet often conflicted character, opened up about why he decided it was time to step away from the iconic daytime soap. In a candid conversation on The Daily Drama Podcast with Steve Burton and Bradford Anderson, Duell peeled back the curtain on the deeply personal reasons behind his decision—and what lies ahead.

A Personal Tragedy That Changed Everything

The emotional weight of Duell’s departure became clear when he revealed that the death of his father played a pivotal role in his decision. “I’m still coming to terms with that,” Duell shared, hinting that the loss had shaken him to his core. His father’s passing, a life-altering event, forced the actor to reflect on the transient nature of life, ultimately leading him to reevaluate his priorities.

For Duell, it was not just about leaving a show—General Hospital was a part of his identity, and his departure was a necessary step toward healing and growth.

Breaking Free: Why Duell Needed to Move On

Despite the personal loss, Duell’s decision wasn’t purely driven by grief. He expressed a desire for personal growth, revealing that he had begun to feel stifled by his routine. “I feel like I stifled myself,” Duell admitted, acknowledging that after spending over 14 years in the same role, the time had come to shake things up.

He needed to push himself in new directions—both spiritually and mentally. The actor described his exit as a “life adjustment,” signaling that stepping away was not just about healing, but about evolving as a person. The shift wasn’t just a professional one—it was personal.

Fatherhood: A New Chapter of Priorities

If there’s one thing that became crystal clear in Duell’s interview, it’s that fatherhood has changed his perspective.

With the birth of his son, Duell found himself drawn to a new sense of purpose. “I’m preparing myself for the next chapter,” Duell said, reflecting on his transition into fatherhood. His decision to leave General Hospital wasn’t just about leaving a job—it was about being there for his family. For Duell, the birth of his son marked a turning point where he could no longer ignore the pull of his personal life and the responsibilities that came with it.

Spending more time with his partner and child became paramount.

A Dramatic Exit: Michael Corinthos’s Fiery Sendoff

For fans who were invested in Michael Corinthos’s storyline, Duell’s final moments on General Hospital were nothing short of dramatic. The actor’s last scenes saw Michael embroiled in a fiery explosion at Sonny Corinthos’s office—a fittingly explosive exit for a character who had spent years navigating the twists and turns of Port Charles.

The dramatic sendoff mirrored Duell’s own life, full of emotional highs and lows, making his departure from the show both symbolic and heartfelt.

What’s Next for Chad Duell? A New Beginning

While Duell’s time with General Hospital has ended for now, he’s not ruling out a return to the soap in the future. “The door’s always open,” he said, leaving fans with hope that his character may one day make a return.

However, Duell made it clear that for the time being, his focus is on new ventures—and, most importantly, his family. He hinted that there are “a few things planned” in his future, but wouldn’t go into specifics. The future is uncertain, but Duell’s commitment to growth and exploration is unmistakable.

Reflecting on a Legacy: Chad Duell’s Impact on General Hospital

Chad Duell’s tenure on General Hospital wasn’t just about playing a role—it was about crafting a character that became ingrained in the hearts of fans. His portrayal of Michael Corinthos won him accolades and a devoted following, with fans closely following his journey from the young son of mob boss Sonny to a seasoned, multi-layered character navigating love, loss, and family drama. Duell’s impact on the show is undeniable, and though he’s moving on, the legacy he leaves behind will continue to influence the show long after his exit.

A Bold Move: Why Duell’s Decision Is a Win for His Mental Health

Chad Duell’s decision to step away from General Hospital serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health and personal well-being. As the entertainment industry places high demands on its stars, it can often be easy to overlook one’s own needs.

Duell, however, has shown a rare level of self-awareness. By prioritizing his mental and emotional health, he is setting an example for others in the industry. It’s a move that speaks to the broader conversation about self-care, balance, and the importance of putting oneself first—something not often seen in the public eye.

A New Era for Chad Duell: What’s Next?

As Duell begins this new chapter of his life, fans are left wondering what’s next for the actor. Will he return to acting? Will he focus more on family life? There’s no clear answer just yet, but one thing is for certain—Duell is taking this time to build the life he’s always wanted. Whether or not he returns to the screen, his legacy in the world of daytime TV is firmly cemented. And for fans who have followed his journey on General Hospital, this is not the end, but simply the beginning of a new and exciting chapter.