For over three decades, Maurice Benard has brought Sonny Corinthos to life on General Hospital,
captivating audiences with his portrayal of the powerful yet emotionally complex mob boss.
Throughout his time on the show, Benard has tackled countless dramatic storylines, from high-stakes mob wars to devastating betrayals.
However, in a recent revelation, he shared that one storyline in particular left a lasting emotional impact on him
—the heartbreaking Alzheimer’s arc involving Sonny’s father, Mike Corbin.
A Story That Hit Close to Home
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Benard reflected on the storyline, calling it one of the most powerful experiences of his career.
“People always ask me what my favorite storyline is,” he wrote. “I have truly had so many, but I would have to say the Alzheimer’s. The storyline. The writing. I don’t think the actors were acting, I think we all were just living the story.”
He credited General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini and the show’s writers for crafting such an emotional and authentic storyline. Benard also expressed gratitude to his co-stars, including Steve Burton (Jason Morgan) and Laura Wright (Carly Corinthos), for their unwavering support during the difficult scenes.
A Painful Period in His Life
Benard revealed that filming this storyline came at an especially difficult time for him personally. He had just returned to work after enduring what he described as one of the hardest four months of his life during the pandemic.
“I was in bad shape,” he admitted. The transition back to work was anything but easy, as he was immediately thrown into deeply emotional scenes depicting the decline and eventual passing of his on-screen father, Mike Corbin, played by Max Gail.
In his Instagram video, Benard momentarily slipped when discussing the storyline, saying, “And then my dad dies.” He quickly corrected himself, clarifying that he was referring to his character’s father, not his own. This small moment underscored just how deeply the storyline resonated with him on a personal level.
Letting the Emotions Flow
Benard recalled his approach to portraying Sonny during this heart-wrenching storyline, emphasizing that he chose not to “act” but rather to “just live it.” This decision allowed him to deliver a performance that felt raw and genuine.
“I came in the first day, and I had these monologues with my dad dying on the bed,” he said. “And I wasn’t in great shape.” Rather than forcing an emotional reaction, he allowed himself to simply be present in the moment, letting the emotions naturally surface.
Benard became visibly emotional in the clip as he praised the writing and the performances of his fellow cast members. “It was so beautifully written,” he said, struggling to hold back tears. He also commended Max Gail for his moving portrayal of Mike Corbin, acknowledging the impact of his work.
An Award-Winning Performance
The Alzheimer’s storyline was not only deeply affecting for the cast but also resonated strongly with fans and critics alike. Benard noted that the storyline went on to win multiple Emmy Awards, a testament to its powerful impact.
With its realistic and sensitive portrayal of Alzheimer’s disease, the storyline shed light on the struggles faced by families dealing with the condition. Sonny’s journey of watching his father slip away was both heartbreaking and relatable to many viewers who have experienced similar situations in real life.
Why This Storyline Meant So Much
Benard has always been known for bringing authenticity to his performances, but this storyline was different. It was personal, emotional, and deeply moving, making it one of the most memorable arcs in General Hospital history.
For many fans, Sonny Corinthos is a larger-than-life character, but this storyline reminded everyone that even the toughest individuals can experience deep, personal loss. It showed a side of Sonny that was vulnerable, allowing audiences to see a different layer of his character.
A Lasting Legacy
Years after the storyline aired, it remains one of the most talked-about moments in General Hospital history. Benard’s emotional recollection of the experience highlights just how powerful soap operas can be when they tackle real-life issues with authenticity and heart.
As General Hospital continues to evolve, fans can only hope for more storylines that capture the raw emotions and depth that made this one so unforgettable. And for Maurice Benard, this storyline will always hold a special place in his heart, reminding him—and the audience—of the power of storytelling.
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