So, another “General Hospital” stalwart is checking out. Chad Duell, the actor who’s embodied Michael Corinthos for the last decade and a half, is departing Port Charles, leaving a Corinthos-sized hole in the canvas. Duell’s exit, announced with the usual vague pronouncements about it feeling like the “right time,” comes as his character, Michael, is embroiled in a rather operatic storyline. You see, Michael’s wife, Willow, has been dallying with someone else, and there’s a baby on the way – possibly not Michael’s. It’s all very dramatic, and now, even more so.
Naturally, the timing of Duell’s departure – right in the thick of this paternity puzzle – has fueled the recast rumor mill. After all, you can’t just leave a Corinthos dangling, can you? They’re practically royalty in Port Charles. The name whispered in the corridors of “General Hospital” (and on various internet forums) is Robert Adamson, formerly of “The Young and the Restless.” Adamson has, in fact, stepped into Michael’s shoes before, albeit briefly. Could this be a permanent arrangement? It’s starting to look that way.
Duell himself, while keeping mum on the specifics of his exit, offered the standard platitudes about being grateful for the experience, the cast, the crew, and the fans. All very diplomatic, of course. No juicy behind-the-scenes dirt to dish, unfortunately. Although, one can’t help but wonder if the recent arrival of a new baby in Duell’s personal life played a factor in his decision. Priorities shift, and 15 years is a long time to spend in the sometimes-stifling world of daytime drama.
This news comes hot on the heels of Kelly Monaco’s departure, further shaking up the “General Hospital” landscape. One wonders what’s in the water over at ABC. Are the writers deliberately thinning the herd? Or is there some other force at play? Regardless, it certainly makes for an interesting time to be a “General Hospital” viewer. The drama, both on and off-screen, continues to unfold. Now, the only question is, who will inherit the Corinthos mantle?
General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC.
