'General Hospital' Star Maurice Benard Is a Loving Husband and Father of 4 Beautiful Kids

Maurice Benard is best known for being on "General Hospital," but he is a loving husband and father to four beautiful kids.

Maurice Benard is the longtime star of "General Hospital," a show that has been on air since 1968. The three-time Daytime Emmy Award-winning actor plays Sonny Corinthos, a wealthy manic depressive drug kingpin living in Port Charles; he’s had the role since 1993.

His character's life isn't one to emulate, as he's fathered seven children and had several marriages on the show. However, Benard and his wife Paula are going strong and have been together since 1990.

BENARD'S CAREER

Benard's married life to Paula tells the story of love, friendship, and faith in each other. Whenever the opportunity presents itself, the actor sings his better half's praise. He once told Oprah that she is his anchor in dealing with his mental condition.

The father-of-four suffers from bipolar disorder, which he got diagnosed with in his early 20s. Now, he is a fierce advocate for mental health in America.

HIS ADVOCACY

The actor is a spokesperson for Mental Health America. As for what he hopes people get out of his messages, it's this:

"I just want people to know that there's hope and to never give up when it comes to mental illness and when it comes to the person you love."

COPING WITH THE PANDEMIC

In a recent interview, Benard revealed that coping with the pandemic is like a family affair. He's sought help for his anxiety, which he shares happens during a crisis like this.

Last year, he also released a memoir called "Nothing General About It: How Love (and Lithium) Saved Me On and Off General Hospital." The book, according to Benard, details his stay at a mental institution.

ABOUT HIS CHILDREN

Benard and his wife Paula are parents to Cailey Sofia, Cassidy Rose, and Joshua James. In 2008, their family grew after they adopted Paula's 15-year-old sister Heather Ann Smith Benard.

According to Benard, Heather is "very, very sweet." They decided to adopt the teenager after Paula's mom unexpectedly passed away.

A PROUD DAD

The proud dad often shares snippets of their family on social media. He once posted a picture on Instagram with his daughters, writing:

“The greatest feeling in the world is for a father to know his kids have grown up to be beautiful souls, and never have to question who they are in his heart.”

HIS OWN MINI-ME

The "General Hospital" actor is equally proud of his son, who is growing up to be his mini-me. He once revealed that his son "controls the house."

Although the young man isn't too fond of photos, that hasn't stopped his dad from sharing some with fans on social media. In one snap, the proud dad called his son "so damn handsome."

A DOTING GRANDFATHER

Benard continues his work on "General Hospital," but when he isn't busy filming, he is at home spending time with his family. He is a doting grandfather to Eloise, his daughter Heather's firstborn.

He often shares photos and videos of the little one under his care, and fans can't get enough of the adorable duo. The proud actor might have accomplished a lot in life, but to him, being a granddad is the best feeling in the world.

Earlier this August, the doting grandpa shared a before-and-after video of Eloise sitting in the front seat of his car, looking at him intently. The little girl grew a whole lot since the last video, but she remained calm and well-behaved in both.