Emmy award-winning actor Maurice Benard was recently spotlighted in “Live On Air with Steven Cuoco.” #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos has the scoop.
He is known for his portrayal of Sonny Corinthos on the hit ABC soap opera “General Hospital.” He hosts his weekly podcast on mental health, “MB State of Mind.” “I started ‘State of Mind’ in my car as an Instagram story,” he admitted. “I did it on YouTube, and it was really difficult at first, but now it has become a brand, it’s really cool.”
“The pandemic has been great; it’s a curse and a blessing,” he admitted. “The blessing is that there is a ton more awareness. I was one of the first men to come out as bi-polar on ‘Oprah.’ Now, the curse is way too many suicides.”
With his work in the mental health field, Benard has been able to bring “bi-polar” to the forefront.
Maurice Benard is a true luminary in the world of film and television. With a distinguished presence and acclaimed performances, he has left an indelible mark on the industry. As a member of the prestigious Actor’s Studio and an Emmy Award winner, Benard’s talent knows no bounds.
In his most recent ventures, Benard commanded the screen as the iconic John Gotti in Lifetime’s captivating “Victoria Gotti: My Father’s Daughter.” His compelling portrayal showcased his unparalleled acting prowess. Additionally, he delved into the realm of horror in the chilling film “Nightmare Cinema,” alongside the legendary Mickey Rourke, captivating audiences and earning critical acclaim at the New York Horror Film Festival.
Benard’s versatility extends beyond the big screen, as he has graced independent films such as “Hold On” and “Equal Standard,” sharing the spotlight with the iconic Ice T. His captivating performances also include Lifetime’s gripping “A Lover Betrayed.” From David O’Russell’s acclaimed “Joy” to the captivating biopic “Lucy & Desi: Before the Laughter,” Maurice Benard’s filmography continues to astound.
Yet, his commitment to the art of storytelling goes beyond acting. The indie film “The Ghost and the Whale,” produced by his wife Paula, became a testament to his dedication to raising awareness about mental health.
In this deeply personal project, he portrayed a bipolar man grappling with his illness following the loss of his wife. Inspired by a heartfelt letter from a young man who lost his brother to suicide, Benard embarked on a public crusade to shed light on mental health issues.
His own journey with bipolar disorder revealed to the world during a candid appearance on “Oprah” in 2009, showcased Benard’s courage and resilience.
From his time in a mental institution as a young man to his rise as a television star, he has become a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges. Magazines like PEOPLE, LA LIFE, and BP, and the online publication Digital Journal have celebrated his story, amplifying his message of compassion, understanding, and mental health advocacy.
Their entire informed conversation may be heard below on Spotify. It was raw, vulnerable, and pensive chat.
To learn more about Maurice Benard, follow him on Instagram.
