Dive into Chad Duell’s heartfelt message about Rory Gibson taking over Michael Corinthos on General Hospital. Read about his reasons for leaving, his support for Rory, and what the future holds for both actors.
Chad Duell recently broke his silence about passing the torch to Rory Gibson as the new Michael Corinthos on General Hospital — and fans are feeling the depth of his honesty and grace.
Bold Grace in Transition
During a candid Instagram Live on June 26, Chad expressed tremendous respect for Rory Gibson’s performance. He shared his goal was a “smooth transition”, saying he didn’t want it to be “all about me.” His kind words — “It worked out so well, with him … so I’ve heard.” — show his genuine pride in Rory’s seamless debut.
Bold Empathy from Experience
Chad admitted that stepping into Michael’s shoes himself was a whirlwind — “one day, boom, the next.” He empathizes deeply with Rory’s journey, knowing how intense such a shift can be for an actor.
Bold Self‑Care & Mental Health
After playing Michael for 15 years, Chad needed a pause. Losing his father last year hit him hard. He revealed that he was waking up exhausted: “I couldn’t get myself going… go to work and just feel—and look—tired.” He proactively gave the show months’ notice and asked writers for a dramatic exit scene — the explosive fire — so the character could depart with purpose.
Bold Legacy & Longevity
Chad’s tenure as Michael began in 2010, and his portrayal earned him a Daytime Emmy in 2015. His ability to grow the character through complex and emotional storylines cemented Michael Corinthos as a beloved soap icon for over a decade.
Bold Looking Ahead
While Chad is keeping future roles under wraps, he mentioned several projects in early development. This next chapter is focused on personal renewal, creative exploration, and embracing new opportunities beyond Port Charles.
In summary: Chad Duell’s graceful exit laid the perfect foundation for Rory Gibson, ensuring fans would be in capable hands. His openness about grief, burnout, and growth not only reflects a professional evolution, but a deeply human journey. And with Rory stepping in, the legacy of Michael Corinthos continues—understanding, evolving, and captivating audiences all over again.
