Viewers believe that Chad Duell, who plays Michael Corinthos, is leaving General Hospital due to a sudden recasting. Introduced in 1997, Dylan and Blake Hopkins were cast to portray the baby version of the character. However, as Michael aged, his role went to Dylan Cash and later to Chad Duell. With recent casting shakeups, many have assumed that Sonny’s adoptive son will not be played by Duell from now on. But, is it true? Here are the details.
Is Chad Duell leaving General Hospital?
No, Duell has not left General Hospital but temporarily exited the show due to a scheduling conflict.
Fans of General Hospital need not worry as Robert Adamson taking on Michael’s role is a temporary casting arrangement, as per Soap Opera Digest. As Duell is experiencing scheduling conflicts, he will not be able to make it up in upcoming episodes, leading to a sudden recasting.
There are multiple instances when Adamson played Michael previously for a few episodes of ABC’s soap opera in Duell’s absence. However, it remains unclear how many episodes his latest stint is for.
Will Chad Duell return as Michael on General Hospital?
Yes, Duell is expected to return to General Hospital shortly.
In June 2022, Duell’s Michael was first recast, wherein Robert Adamson filled in for Duell for at least two episodes. This is because Duell had some Covid-related issues, leading to his absence.
Later, Adamson was summoned again to continue playing the character reportedly for another six episodes. At the time, the show’s premise revolved around Nina, Michael, and Willow’s court troubles.
Notably, recasting actors is a very common practice in soap operas, often due to their long-running nature. Several actors leave the show temporarily due to personal and professional issues and their roles are then filled in by another actor. Therefore, even Duell’s recasting is not permanent as he will return soon.