How much does Maurice Benard make from his long-running role on General Hospital? His character, Sonny Corinthos, has made him one of the most recognizable faces in daytime television. But beyond his acting career, what are his other sources of income?
In this article, Aupeo breaks down Maurice Benard’s wealth, salary, and financial decisions. We explore his career earnings, investments, and financial challenges while comparing his income with other actors in the industry.
Maurice Benard Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Mauricio José Morales |
| Popular Name | Maurice Benard |
| Birth Date | March 1, 1963 |
| Age (as of 03/10/2025) | 62 years old |
| Birthplace | Martinez, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Nicaraguan and Salvadoran descent |
| Education | N/A |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Paula Smith (m. 1990) |
| Children | 4 (three daughters and one son) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Martha (mother), Humberto Morales (father) |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m) |
| Net Worth | $2 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, investments |
What is the Net Worth Of Maurice Benard in 2025?
Maurice Benard’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $2 million. His primary income comes from his role as Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital, where he has appeared in over 1,600 episodes. Despite decades in the entertainment industry, his net worth is lower than some other soap opera stars.
Comparing his wealth, actors like Steve Burton and Laura Wright, who also star in General Hospital, have reported higher earnings. However, his financial standing remains solid due to consistent work in television and film.
Related People & Companies
- General Hospital
- Steve Burton
- Laura Wright
- Soap Opera Digest Awards
- Daytime Emmy Awards
- Paula Smith
- Mental Health America
- Hollywood Hills Real Estate
- TV Soap Opera Industry
- Film Industry Earnings
Want to explore more about high-earning celebrities? Check out this list of the richest celebrities.
Maurice Benard Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Much Does He Earn from His Acting Career?
Maurice Benard’s biggest financial asset is his long-standing role on General Hospital. He joined the cast in 1993 and quickly became one of the show’s most significant characters.
His salary per episode remains undisclosed, but leading daytime actors can earn between $2,000 and $5,000 per episode.
In addition to his TV role, he has also acted in films like Lucy & Desi: Before the Laughter and The Ghost and the Whale, though these projects have not been as financially rewarding.
What Are His Other Sources of Income?
Besides acting, Maurice has multiple income streams:
- Guest Appearances & Public Speaking – He has made appearances in TV shows like Castle and has been invited to mental health awareness events.
- Book Sales & Endorsements – While no official endorsements are confirmed, many actors in his position work with brands related to health or entertainment.
- Sponsorships & Brand Collaborations – His work with Mental Health America could lead to collaborations with wellness brands.
Has He Made Any Significant Financial Investments?
Yes, real estate has played a role in his financial portfolio. In 2007, Maurice Benard and his wife purchased a home in the Hollywood Hills for $1.25 million. After renovations, they sold the property in 2011 for $1.386 million.
His future investments remain unknown, but many actors in Hollywood diversify their income through real estate or side businesses.
How Does His Wealth Compare to Other Soap Opera Actors?
Compared to prime-time TV stars, daytime actors typically earn less, but they have more job stability. While Maurice Benard’s net worth of $2 million is substantial, it is lower than actors like Susan Lucci or Eric Braeden, who have built larger fortunes over the years.
Factors affecting financial success in soap operas include:
- Contract length – Some actors negotiate multi-year deals.
- Syndication & residuals – Unlike prime-time actors, many daytime stars don’t receive substantial residuals.
- Side projects – Those with endorsements or business ventures tend to earn more.
What Financial Challenges Has He Faced?
Maurice has been open about his struggles with bipolar disorder, which has affected his career. Shortly after joining General Hospital, he experienced a manic episode, which temporarily disrupted his work.
Financially, he has:
- Faced periods of financial instability before securing his long-term role.
- Spoken about mental health advocacy, which has become a focus over profit for him.
Despite these challenges, his career longevity has helped him maintain financial stability.
How Has He Used His Wealth for Advocacy and Personal Growth?
Maurice Benard is a strong advocate for mental health awareness. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 22, he has used his platform to educate audiences.
His impact includes:
- Encouraging General Hospital writers to make Sonny Corinthos reflect his own struggles.
- Working with Mental Health America to promote treatment and awareness.
- Speaking at public events about mental health.
While some celebrities focus on building massive wealth, Maurice has prioritized stability and advocacy. His finances allow him to continue his acting career while supporting causes that matter to him.
Conclusion
Maurice Benard’s net worth may not be as high as some other actors, but his career longevity and advocacy work make him a respected figure in Hollywood. If you enjoyed this breakdown, check out more celebrity financial insights at Aupeo. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
