The world of daytime television is abuzz with the latest developments on General Hospital, and at the heart of this drama is the enigmatic Sonny Corinthos, played by the legendary Maurice Benard. With his character's recent decision to leave the mob, the question on everyone's mind is: what's next for Sonny? And what does this mean for the show's future? Let's dive into the latest insights and opinions from the star himself.
The Mobster's Evolution
Maurice Benard, a three-time Daytime Emmy winner, teases a fascinating arc for Sonny as he navigates life beyond the mob. He shares, "When the writers told me I was out of the mob, I was intrigued. I thought, 'Let's see what I can do here.'" This shift in Sonny's narrative is not just about his personal choice but also about the show's evolution. Benard acknowledges the past criticism of Sonny's gangster persona, stating, 'There were a lot of people who didn't like the gangster period. They found it too much Sonny, too much violence.'" This indicates a potential shift in the show's tone, moving away from the intense mobster lifestyle towards a more nuanced exploration of power and influence.
Power and Influence
Benard emphasizes that Sonny's power doesn't necessarily mean violence. He suggests, 'You can be powerful in business. You can be powerful in various aspects of life.' This hints at a potential storyline where Sonny explores new avenues of power, perhaps delving into the corporate world or political arena. The actor's enthusiasm is palpable, as he exclaims, 'I do know the story, and it's truly amazing! When I heard about it, I was like, 'Wow!'" This suggests a compelling narrative where Sonny's character development takes center stage.
The Future of Sonny Corinthos
With his contract up in 2027, Benard is committed to his role for the foreseeable future. He states, 'I'm not going to retire soon. I'm happy at GH, and they'll have to kick me out.' This dedication to the show is evident, but the question remains: how will the show handle Sonny's eventual exit? Benard envisions a dramatic departure, suggesting, 'If I were to leave, I'd want it to be a big cliffhanger. Something happens to one of his children, and it's his fault. He can't take it, and the story ends with a bang.' This raises intriguing possibilities for the show's narrative, leaving fans speculating about the potential consequences.
Returning Characters and Fan Favorite
When asked about potential returns, Benard names three characters he'd love to see back: Brenda (Vanessa Marcil), Luke (the late Anthony Geary), and Morgan (last played by Bryan Craig). These characters hold a special place in the hearts of fans and could provide a sense of continuity and nostalgia. The actor's enthusiasm for these returns is clear, as he expresses his love for these characters and their impact on the show. This highlights the importance of fan favorites in shaping the narrative and keeping viewers engaged.
The Anticipated Storyline
While the specifics of the upcoming storyline remain under wraps, Benard hints at a significant development. He mentions Sonny's desire to acquire Sidwell's assets and keep them away from Drew. This suggests a complex narrative involving power struggles, family dynamics, and perhaps even a moral dilemma for Sonny. The actor's excitement about the story is infectious, leaving fans eager to see how this unfolds.
In conclusion, Maurice Benard's insights provide a captivating glimpse into the future of General Hospital. With Sonny's departure from the mob and a potential shift in his narrative, the show is poised for a transformative phase. The actor's dedication to his role and his vision for the character's future leave fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Corinthos saga. As the show continues to evolve, one thing is certain: Sonny Corinthos will forever be a central figure in the dramatic world of Port Charles.
