In a stunning announcement that has left fans reeling, Chad Duell has declared that he is stepping away from his iconic role as Michael Corinthos after 14 memorable years on ABC's beloved soap opera, "General Hospital." The 37-year-old actor made the heartfelt revelation via a social media post on Saturday, effectively marking the end of an era for both himself and the long-running series.

“This wasn’t an easy decision for me,” Duell shared with his followers, expressing gratitude for the support he has received throughout his career. “After many incredible years with General Hospital, I’ve decided to step away from the show. It feels like the right time in my life.” In a thoughtful message, he thanked his co-stars, cast, crew, and the show's producers, including Frank Valentini, for making his journey unforgettable. “To all the fans: thank you from the bottom of my heart for your unwavering support,” he added, promising that this is “not a goodbye—it’s a see you later.”

Frank Valentini, the executive producer of "General Hospital," took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to confirm Duell's exit, expressing his sadness while also commending the actor's talent and contributions to the show. "He is a terrific actor and will be missed by everyone at #GH," Valentini remarked. However, he reassured fans that there are currently no plans to recast the role of Michael Corinthos, although he teased that a "great story" is in the works for the character that will unfold when Duell departs in the new year.

Duell's portrayal of Michael, the son of A.J. Quartermaine and Carly Spencer, has garnered him accolades, including a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2015. His character has been central to many dramatic storylines, and Duell previously described Michael as someone who always prioritizes family and values peace, crediting him with a good heart and solid intentions.

Interestingly, Robert Adamson has intermittently filled in for Duell since last year due to his scheduling conflicts, leading to speculation that Adamson might be primed for a more permanent takeover of the role.

The timing of Duell’s departure coincides with another major shift in the series, as longtime star Kelly Monaco, known for her role as Sam McCall, recently exited the show. Monaco's final episode aired on November 1, and she has expressed her confusion about leaving after 21 years, stating it "still doesn’t make any sense to me."

As fans digest this news, one thing is for certain: the world of "General Hospital" is poised for substantial changes, and all eyes will be on how the show adapts to these significant departures in the coming months. What will be the fate of Michael Corinthos, and can the show maintain its iconic status without these beloved characters? Stay tuned for more updates!