“After many incredible years with General Hospital, I’ve decided to step away from the show,” Duell wrote in an Instagram post alongside an image of himself with the cast.
“This wasn’t an easy decision for me, but it feels like the right time in my life,” he continued. “I’m beyond grateful to Frank Valentini, the cast, crew, and everyone behind the scenes who have been like family to me throughout this amazing journey.”
Duell thanked his fans “from the bottom of my heart for your unwavering support and for letting Michael Corinthos be a part of your lives. Your love and encouragement has meant the world to me.”
“This isn’t a goodbye—it’s a see you later,” he concluded.
In 2015, Duell won a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.
"I am sad to confirm the news of Chad Duell’s forthcoming exit from #GeneralHospital," he wrote. "I have loved working with Chad over the years and wish him nothing but the best. He is a terrific actor and will be missed by everyone at #GH."
"There are no plans to recast his role at this time, but you never know in daytime,” Valentini continued. “I can promise a great story for Michael and his family when Chad exits in the new year.”
“He’s very protective and supportive of his family and always wanting to keep the peace. He has a good heart and he’s a good father,” he said.
However, Duell noted that his character is “frustrating” because of how naive he can be at times, adding that Michael is not very street-smart and oblivious to things happening around him.
“Welcome to the world lil Dawson Been quite the journey.. can’t wait to see the great man you become,” Durell captioned the post.