Regarding Maurice Benard's status as Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital, Executive Producer Frank Valentini has provided clarity to concerned fans.
Executive Producer Frank Valentini's Statement
In recent interviews, Valentini has definitively stated that there are no current plans for Maurice Benard to leave the role of Sonny Corinthos. He has directly addressed rumors circulating online.
Clarifying the Rumors
The speculation appears to stem from:

- Misinterpretation of character storyline developments.
- Scheduling adjustments unrelated to departure.
- Standard contractual negotiation cycles common in long-running series.
Current Contractual Status
Maurice Benard remains under contract. Valentini emphasized Sonny's integral role within the show's core canvas, describing him as a fundamental character in Port Charles.
Possible Future Scenarios
- Contract Renewal: Ongoing discussions for future seasons are standard practice.
- Story Flexibility: Temporary exits for brief story reasons remain possible, as with any character.
- No Indicated Departure: There is no official communication suggesting Benard is exiting the series permanently.
Official Position
The show's leadership maintains that Maurice Benard continues his portrayal of Sonny Corinthos. Production encourages viewers to rely on official show announcements through verified channels for accurate information.