Casting Shocker: Chad Duell Quits His Role As Michael Corinthos on General Hospital

On Saturday afternoon, Chad Duell surprised his fans when he shared the news that he would no longer be playing Michael Corinthos on General Hospital.

The actor first joined the ABC soap in 2010, assuming the role of Carly and Sonny’s son from Drew Garrett. Since making his GH debut, he has been nominated for a Daytime Emmy award six times for his work as Michael and won in 2015 for Outstanding Supporting Actor.

Saying… See You Later

“After many incredible years with General Hospital, I’ve decided to step away from the show,” Duell began his post on Instagram, alongside a photo of himself with castmates including on-screen mother Laure Wright (Carly) and his Port Charles wife, Katelyn MacMullen (Willow). “This wasn’t an easy decision for me, but it feels like the right time in my life. I’m beyond grateful to [Executive Producer] 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 has meant the world to me :),” he continued before adding, “This isn’t a goodbye—it’s a see you later. Much love, Chad.”

The actor told Digest back in 2023, “When I originally wanted to be an actor, soap operas didn’t even cross my mind, and I didn’t think that I was going to be here this long at first. It’s very fast- paced and the work can be difficult but I get to be part of a show that’s been on for [so many] years, that has been a part of people’s families for generations. It’s such a staple in television and that I’ve been on it for 13 years is really cool when I think about it. I have so many fond memories of those 13 years. It’s been a lot of fun, a lot of growth and it’s taught me a lot, not just as an actor but as a man. Being part of this show been quite a journey in so many aspects of my life, and I’m just grateful that it’s still going and that I’m still working with some of the same people that have been there since I started.”

Before Duell began playing Michael, Drew Garrett, held the role from 2009-10. Dylan Cash portrayed him prior to that from 2002-08. Tiarnan Cunningham played little Michael from 2001-02 and Dylan and Blake Hopkins were the initial twins to play baby Michael from 1997-2001.

As fans know, the character of Michael is currently heavy in storyline, as Michael recently discovered that his wife had cheated on him with his uncle Drew, and had a one-night stand with ex-girlfriend Sasha, who may be pregnant. To find out whether the show plans to recast the role once Duell wraps his run, click here.