Maurice Benard is a well-known American actor, primarily recognized for his role as Sonny Corinthos on the long-running ABC soap opera General Hospital. Over the years, he has gained immense fame and wealth through his acting career. If you’re curious about Maurice Benard’s net worth, personal life, family, and more, this article provides an in-depth look at his life and achievements.
Quick Bio: Maurice Benard Net Worth
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mauricio José Morales |
| Known As | Maurice Benard |
| Date of Birth | March 1, 1963 |
| Age | 61 years old (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Martinez, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Salvadoran and Nicaraguan descent |
| Profession | Actor, Author |
| Famous For | Playing Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital |
| Net Worth | $2-3 million (estimated) |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) |
| Weight | Around 75 kg (165 lbs) |
| Spouse | Paula Smith (married in 1990) |
| Children | 4 (Cailey, Cassidy, Joshua, Heather – adopted) |
| Father | Humberto Morales |
| Mother | Martha Morales |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
Maurice Benard Net Worth
As of 2024, Maurice Benard’s net worth is estimated to be between $2 million to $3 million. He has earned this fortune mainly through his acting career, with General Hospital being his primary source of income.
Sources of Income
- Television Career – Benard has been playing Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital since 1993, earning a significant salary.
- Film Roles – He has appeared in films such as Joy (2015) and The Ghost and the Whale (2017).
- Books – He published his memoir Nothing General About It, which details his life and struggles with bipolar disorder.
- Endorsements & Public Speaking – Benard is also involved in mental health advocacy, which adds to his income through speaking engagements.
Early Life and Background
Maurice Benard was born as Mauricio José Morales on March 1, 1963, in Martinez, California. He was raised in a middle-class household with his parents, who were immigrants from Central America. His father, Humberto Morales, was a bakery superintendent, while his mother, Martha Morales, was a bank employee.
Growing up, Benard developed a passion for acting and entertainment. He started his career as a model before making his way into the television industry.
Age and Physical Appearance
Maurice Benard is 61 years old as of 2024. He has maintained a youthful and charismatic appearance despite his age.
Physical Attributes
- Height: 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
- Weight: Around 75 kg (165 lbs)
- Hair Color: Dark brown (graying with age)
- Eye Color: Dark brown
His well-maintained physique and charming smile have made him a fan favorite over the years.
Education
Maurice Benard completed his early education in California. While there are no records of him attending college, he pursued acting at a young age, joining various acting classes and workshops. His early involvement in theater helped him develop his craft, eventually leading to success in television.
His Father: Humberto Morales
Maurice’s father, Humberto Morales, was a hardworking man who worked as a bakery superintendent. He played an important role in shaping Maurice’s work ethic and discipline. Humberto, along with Maurice’s mother, supported their son’s ambitions despite the challenges that come with the entertainment industry.
His Mother: Martha Morales
Maurice’s mother, Martha Morales, worked in the banking industry. She was instrumental in providing a stable and supportive home environment. Maurice has often spoken about the love and support he received from his mother, which helped him navigate the ups and downs of his career and personal life.
Children: How Many Kids Does Maurice Benard Have?
Maurice Benard and his wife, Paula Smith, have four children together:
- Cailey Benard
- Cassidy Benard
- Joshua Benard – He has followed in his father’s footsteps and has acted in General Hospital.
- Heather Ann Smith Benard – She was adopted by Maurice and Paula in 2008.
Maurice is known for being a devoted family man. He frequently shares pictures and moments with his children on social media.
Who Is Maurice Benard?
Maurice Benard is an accomplished actor best known for his iconic role as Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital. He has played the character since 1993, making him one of the most recognized faces in daytime television.
Notable Works
- General Hospital (1993–present)
- All My Children (1987–1990)
- Joy (2015)
- The Ghost and the Whale (2017)
Mental Health Advocacy
Beyond acting, Maurice has been an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder at a young age, he has openly discussed his struggles, helping to break the stigma around mental illness. His book Nothing General About It is a powerful memoir that details his personal experiences with mental health challenges.
Current Life: What Is Maurice Benard Doing Now?
Maurice Benard continues to play Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital, a role he has held for over 30 years. In addition to acting, he focuses on his:
- YouTube Series: “State of Mind” – A mental health podcast where he interviews celebrities, professionals, and everyday people about mental wellness.
- Family Life – Spending time with his wife and children.
- Public Speaking – Advocating for mental health awareness.
He remains active in Hollywood and continues to inspire his fans through his work and personal journey.
Conclusion
Maurice Benard is more than just a successful actor; he is a family man, mental health advocate, and an inspiration to many. With a net worth estimated between $2-3 million, he has built a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. His journey from a struggling actor to a daytime TV legend is truly remarkable.
Whether through his portrayal of Sonny Corinthos, his advocacy for mental health, or his role as a father and husband, Maurice continues to be a beloved figure in the industry.
FAQ‘s: Maurice Benard Net Worth
1. What is Maurice Benard’s net worth?
Maurice Benard’s net worth is estimated to be between $2-3 million as of 2024.
2. Who is Maurice Benard’s wife?
Maurice Benard is married to Paula Smith, and they have been together since 1990.
3. How many children does Maurice Benard have?
He has four children – Cailey, Cassidy, Joshua, and Heather (adopted).
4. What is Maurice Benard’s real name?
His real name is Mauricio José Morales.
5. What mental health condition does Maurice Benard have?
He has bipolar disorder, which he has openly discussed in his book and interviews.
