Michael Corinthos Returns to General Hospital with New Actor

POR CHARLES, CA — Michael Corinthos returns to ABC‘s ‘General Hospital‘ on Friday, May 23, but he will have a new face. Rory Gibson, known for playing Noah Newman on ‘The Young and the Restless‘ from 2021 to 2023, has stepped into the role last portrayed by Chad Duell, who exited in January after 15 years on the show.

“We are excited to welcome Rory to our show,” said a spokesperson from ABC. Gibson shared that his journey to ‘General Hospital’ was a lengthy one. “I originally sent in a tape for Vaughn,” he recalled. After a chemistry read with Eden McCoy (Josslyn Jacks), Gibson had a follow-up chat with executive producer Frank Valentini. “I could kind of see the wheels turning as we were talking,” he added.

Gibson later received a callback, but had to keep the details of the role a secret. “It was super, super top secret,” he said. Following screen tests with Kristina Corinthos and Willow Tait, Gibson felt he was on the right track. A few weeks later, he was locked in for the role. “It’s been a nice little journey ever since,” he noted.

Although Gibson was new to Port Charles, he was familiar with the soap’s history. “My family watched ‘General Hospital’ religiously,” he explained. When the news broke about his casting, his family was overjoyed. “I called my grandma first, and she was just shouting and hollering,” Gibson recounted, proudly sharing that she immediately shared the news with his uncle.

To prepare for the role, Gibson studied Michael’s complex backstory but chose not to watch older episodes too intensely. “I tried to stay away from watching too many old episodes,” he stated, indicating that he relied on character summaries provided by the show and insights from a close friend who is a dedicated fan.

Gibson hinted at the challenges Michael will face upon his return. “He has a thirst for vengeance and justice because it’s no secret what Drew Quartermaine put him through,” he explained. “I think he wants a calm and peaceful life, especially after everything he’s gone through, but I don’t see that happening for him.”

Gibson praised the cast and crew for their support during his transition into the role. “Mark Teschner, our casting director, really took me under his wing,” he shared. “Katey MacMullen and Sasha Gilmore have also been unbelievably kind.”

Every day presents an exciting opportunity for Gibson, who has connected well with his colleagues offscreen. “It’s been incredible,” he said, mentioning how Sonny Corinthos, played by Maurice Benard, is both intense on-screen but light-hearted in real life.

Although Gibson experienced a bit of buzz on social media about his role before the official announcement, he took it in stride. “It can be intimidating jumping into a recast, especially after someone has done it so well for so long,” he acknowledged. However, he has appreciated the warm welcome from fans who have been supportive of his new journey.

Looking back at his previous role on ‘The Young and the Restless,’ Gibson expressed gratitude for the relationships he formed there. “I had a wonderful time, but I am very excited for this change of scenery and change of pace,” he concluded as he anticipates his first episode airing.