On Sunday, General Hospital star Maurice Benard, (Sonny Corinthos) went solo on his YouTube podcast, State of Mind. The ABC actor became very candid about “fatherhood,” admitting he rarely discusses what he learned and what he regrets about being a dad. Read on to find out more about his efforts in breaking generational cycles of trauma.
A Sometimes Painful Childhood
Maurice Benard cited his parents, especially his dad, for loving him “tremendously.” Additionally, he recalled his mom’s unwavering belief in him when “everybody would basically laugh at me.” Nevertheless, his childhood also had some painful memories for him.
The GH star shared on his podcast, that his dad disciplined him with a belt because that was the behavior passed down from his own father. Later in life, Benard confronted his dad about the trauma. In one of the best moments they shared, his dad said, “I’m sorry.”
Breaking The Cycle
Later, Maurice became a dad and he decided he didn’t want that for his kids. So, he consciously broke the abusive pattern. “I’ve never laid a hand on any of my children. I broke that chain of any kind of abuse,” he said.
However, parenting didn’t seem easy for him, because the ABC daytime drama star struggled with showing affection, just like his dad did. So, he admitted, “Where I think I should have done better is being affectionate.”
However, it always made him feel a bit uncomfortable. But to this day, he works on it, adding, “This is something in my life that needs to be fixed and I will fix it.”
Hiding Mental health Issues
By now, General Hospital fans know that Maurice Benard struggles with bipolar disorder and anxiety. But he wasn’t always open about it, even with his family, because he worried the kids might be impacted by it.
However, sometimes the anxiety and panic attacks simply couldn’t stay hidden. Benard recalled an incident on a plane when it got so bad, they had to get off again. His son, Joshua, basically wondered what the heck was wrong with his dad. So, the real-life Sonny Corinthos realized it “would have been better to be honest than to hide it.”
Being Vulnerable
Eventually, Benard discovered that there’s strength in being vulnerable. Again, he related an incident with Joshua. He explained how he was in a “horrible state of mind” and began crying uncontrollably.
When Joshua got into the car, he saw his dad in tears and offered unexpected comfort. “You’re going to make it, Dad,” Joshua said, “Because I’m going to help you. I’m going to get you through it.” Aww! That’s very sweet, do you agree?
Maurice felt very touched by it, noting that sometimes “your child becomes the parent, and it’s a beautiful thing.” He ended the emotional podcast by reminding his fans to hug their loved ones, urging them to “Do what I’m not doing, but I’m going to try.”
Fans React
In the comments section, many people appreciated that Maurice was so candid about how he tried to be a good dad, but sometimes felt as if he failed. One of them wrote:
Maurice thanks for sharing. Your conversation about what your father meant to you was wonderful. He was your hero and now you and SOM are the hero to so many people. Your son giving you encouragement by telling you that he would help you get though the feeling you were having is wonderful. Sometimes your children can be heroes..
Here are a few more responses from the discussion area:
What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below, and come back here often for all your General Hospital cast news and updates.
