It’s been months since Normal Hospital actor Chad Duell introduced his departure from the long-running sequence, however we nonetheless weren’t ready for his exit storyline to play out this week. Within the Jan. 6 episode of the cleaning soap opera, Duell concluded his character’s arc by going out with a bang — actually.
Duell, 37, had been enjoying the position of Michael Corinthos for over a decade earlier than followers lastly bought to see the ultimate destiny of his multi-layered character. As one of many beloved characters of the present, nevertheless, viewers might need been left surprised by how his storyline wrapped up when a surprising explosion tore by way of his adoptive father Sonny Corinthos’ residence this week.
However earlier than the flames engulfed Michael, tensions had been already boiling over in his private life. His determination to serve Willow (Katelyn MacMullen) with divorce papers in D.C. set the stage for a dramatic showdown, particularly along with her lover Drew (Cameron Mathison) by her aspect.
Willow was understandably indignant and heartbroken when Michael demanded full custody of their kids, Wiley and Amelia. She additionally couldn’t assist however suspect that Michael’s transfer was extra about revenge than the perfect pursuits of their youngsters.
Michael’s subsequent cease was a heated dialog with Sonny (Maurice Bernard). Ever the schemer, Sonny inspired his son to lean into his anger and go after Drew. Michael admitted he’d already taken Diane’s recommendation to make an “aggressive first strike,” however hoped for a extra amicable decision in the long run.
“Diane’s recommendation was to go for an aggressive first strike, so I did,” Michael defined to Sonny. “The hope is that after my preliminary calls for, Willow and I can negotiate and I can accept what I really need, which is shared custody.”
However Sonny, being the annoying puppet grasp that he’s, had his personal concepts. “You’re going to begin getting indignant, proper? As a result of I do know you’ll,” Sonny subtly prompt. That’s while you take it out on who deserves it probably the most, Drew.”
And boy, did Michael take the bait. He lashed out, questioning Drew’s integrity. “What sort of man goes after his nephew’s spouse?” he snapped. Michael even floated the thought of taking away Drew’s firm as retribution.
Because the episode progressed, Jason (Steve Burton) made a shock look to supply Michael assist throughout his darkest hour. “You’re not alone on this, son,” Sonny assured Michael earlier than stepping out of the room with Jason. That’s when issues took a catastrophic flip.
Michael, left alone, heard the ominous sound of ticking. Seconds later, an explosion ripped by way of the room, setting Michael on fireplace. Sonny and Jason rushed again in, however it was too late. Michael’s anguished screams echoed as flames consumed him, marking the tragic, fiery finish of his storyline.
Whereas followers are nonetheless reeling from the surprising flip of occasions, Duell himself has not addressed his character’s demise on the present. Nevertheless, many flooded his newest Instagram put up that includes a photograph of him and his 1-year-old son with girlfriend, Luana Lucci.
“Going to overlook you on GH. Want there was a greater finish scene. GH gained’t be the identical with out you,” one fan wrote, whereas one other commented, “I can’t wait to see what’s subsequent for you. I pray that spiritually and emotionally this break from GH offers you all the things that you just want and I hope that professionally you soar. I’ll miss seeing you on my display every day.”
In November, when he confirmed his departure from Normal Hospital, Duell took time to precise his gratitude to his supporters, saying, “thanks from the underside of my coronary heart to your unwavering assist and for letting Michael Corinthos be part of your lives. Your love and encouragement has meant the world to me. This isn’t a goodbye — it’s a goodbye. A lot love, Chad.”
On the entire, Duell’s exit has left a gaping gap in Normal Hospital and begs the questions: will Michael’s fiery demise go away everlasting scars on Port Charles, and the way will the remaining forged transfer on from his demise? Solely time will inform, however for now, we’re left selecting up the items of this game-changing exit.
