Why Chad Duell Decided to Leave General Hospital After Nearly 15 Years: 'I Feel Like I Stifled Myself'

Chad Duell speaks openly about his unexpected departure from General Hospital.

In a recent episode Daily Drama Podcast, Duell revealed why he decided to leave the soap after almost 15 years playing Michael Corinthos. Explaining that he feels like things in his life have “stagnant”, the 37-year-old actor said he wanted to take time to figure out what was best for his future.

“It’s a life adjustment,” he said. “A lot of things happened in my life. There are a few things behind it, but one thing I said is that my dad passed away and I’m still coming to terms with it.”

“I’m preparing for the next chapters,” he continued, adding that a return to the show is still on the cards. “Obviously with [creator] Frank [Hursley] and all, I left the door open there. Right now, I’m just trying to grow in ways that maybe I feel like I’m suffocated in certain aspects, and sometimes you have to take drastic steps or feel uncomfortable taking a step.”

“And that’s what I didn’t allow myself for a long time, is to step into more uncomfortable situations and grow, instead of feeling comfortable and complacent,” he added.

Chad Duell announces he is leaving General Hospital After almost 15 years: ‘This was not an easy decision for me’

Chad Duell on ‘General Hospital’.

Christine Bartolucci/ABC via Getty

Duell said he used the holiday season to spend time with his family (including his one-year-old son), and hopes to take more risks in his personal and professional life in the new year.

First, however, he prioritizes his well-being in the midst of this massive change.

“Come January, I’ve planned a few things that I want to do for myself, and it’s different because now I have a child, but at the same time, for him, and for me, and for everyone, I’m doing what’s best for me, spiritually, mentally,” he said. “Everything will only reflect my energy in a better way towards everyone around me. I want to make sure I take care of myself.”

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Having played one role for so long — which Duell said he was “extremely blessed” to be able to do — he explained that he got lost in his work.

“I was very complacent for so long that my identity was wrapped up in it,” he said. “Who I was was the show and the characters I did for so long. It will be an unraveling process and I will really see who I am.”

“I have to work hard to reach the potential I know I have — not just career-wise, but in many ways,” he continued. “I feel like I’ve been in a comfort bubble for so long.”

Chad Duell on ‘General Hospital’.

Todd Wawrychuk via Getty

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Duell announced his departure from GH in November, writing a message to fans in a lengthy Instagram post that said in part: “[After] many amazing years with General HospitalI have decided to retire from the show.”

“This was not an easy decision for me, but it feels like the right moment in my life,” he continued. “I am beyond grateful [executive producer] Frank Valentini, the cast, crew and everyone behind the scenes who have been like family to me during this incredible journey.””To all the fans: Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your unwavering support and for allowing Michael Corinthos to be a part of your lives. Your love and encouragement meant everything to me,” he concluded. “This isn’t goodbye – it’s see you later. Much love, Chad.”

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Source: HIS Education