Maurice Benard's Spouse & Family: What You Need To Know
Who is the man behind the iconic Sonny Corinthos, and how has his personal life mirrored the dramatic storylines he portrays on screen? Maurice Benard, the celebrated actor known for his role in "General Hospital," has a life off-screen that is as compelling as his on-screen persona, particularly when it comes to his family and long-lasting marriage.
The world of daytime television often blurs the lines between reality and fiction, but for Maurice Benard, the man who has embodied the complex character of Sonny Corinthos for over three decades, the distinction is clear, especially when it comes to his personal life. While Sonnys love life on "General Hospital" has been a rollercoaster of passionate affairs and tumultuous relationships, Benards real-life romance with his wife, Paula Smith, stands as a testament to enduring love and commitment. The couple recently celebrated a significant milestone, marking over thirty years of marriage, a feat that is nothing short of remarkable in the often-fickle world of Hollywood.
As the world celebrated the 32nd wedding anniversary, the actor shared a throwback picture, which showed the depth of feelings for each other.
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Category | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Maurice Benard |
Date of Birth | March 1, 1963 |
Birthplace | San Francisco, California, USA |
Occupation | Actor |
Known For | Role of Sonny Corinthos on "General Hospital" |
Spouse | Paula Smith (Married) |
Children | Cailey Sofia, Cassidy Rose, Joshua James, Heather Rose (Adopted) |
Notable Awards | Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (1996, 2003, 2019) |
Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis | Diagnosed at age 22, has been open about managing the condition |
Official Website Reference | IMDB |
The story of Maurice and Paulas love affair began in the 1980s, a time when big hair, neon colors, and the music of the decade dominated the scene. It was at a mall, a quintessential teenage hangout, where their paths first crossed. Maurice, already pursuing his acting career, met Paula, who was just sixteen years old at the time. The age difference, with Maurice being five years her senior, did not deter the connection that sparked between them. This initial encounter blossomed into a relationship that has stood the test of time, weathering the storms of Hollywood and personal challenges.
Their love story is not without its share of hurdles. During one of the tough times, there was a situation in which the actor threatened to kill his wife. In a candid interview, Maurice opened up about a time in his life when he was grappling with the grips of his bipolar disorder. But, through it all, the couple managed to come out stronger on the other side, their love for each other providing a constant source of support.
The couple's family has grown to include four children: three biological daughters, Cailey Sofia, Cassidy Rose, and Joshua James, and an adopted daughter, Heather Rose. The couple also adopted Heather, Paulas younger sister after their mother's death. This journey with adoption has melted the hearts of fans everywhere.
The actor is also an advocate and an inspiration for millions, as his son Joshua has even starred in a few episodes of general hospital alongside his dad.
The celebration of milestones, such as anniversaries and birthdays, is something Maurice cherishes. On his wifes birthday, the "General Hospital" star pulled out all the stops to make the occasion unforgettable. As he shared on Instagram, he wanted to surprise Paula, emphasizing that for him, "that is the ultimate."
Benards career began with a role as Nico on the soap opera "All My Children" in 1987. However, it was his portrayal of Sonny Corinthos on "General Hospital" that catapulted him to stardom. He has played the role of the manic depressive mob kingpin, living in Port Charles, since the character's storyline originated on August 13, 1993.
The bond between Maurice and Paula extends beyond the realm of romance and family. Paula has also been a source of support for Maurice in his professional endeavors. The couple often collaborates on projects, and her presence on set and in his creative process is invaluable. Moreover, Paula has worked in the entertainment industry herself, bringing her own experiences and insights to their shared life.
The journey of Maurice Benard is a testament to the power of resilience, love, and the importance of family. His candidness about his bipolar disorder and his ability to thrive in both his personal and professional life have endeared him to fans worldwide. Through his portrayal of Sonny Corinthos and his life off-screen, Maurice Benard has demonstrated that it is possible to navigate the complexities of life with grace, humor, and unwavering love.
Maurice's journey with adoption has melted the hearts of fans everywhere. He has played one of daytimes most recognizable characters of all time for almost 30 years.
The star of the General Hospital has also had an emotional reunion with his adopted daughter heather on the tamron hall show in 2023.
The love story of Maurice and Paula Smith is a reminder that even in the dazzling world of Hollywood, true love and enduring partnerships are possible. It's a narrative of resilience, dedication, and the unwavering power of family, resonating with audiences who have followed Maurice Benard's career for decades.



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