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Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) has his hands full on General Hospital these days, trying to take down Drew as well as figuring out how to prevent Michael (Rory Gibson) from getting accused of shooting the nefarious politician. In the real world, Benard’s life is centered on a love story that has lasted nearly four decades. The actor has been married to Paula Benard since 1990, and together they share four children and a lifetime of memories. On Paula’s birthday, Benard took a moment away from the world of Port Charles to share a touching tribute that left fans both emotional and inspired.
His words of love
On Instagram, Benard reflected on the milestone with a moving caption about their journey together. He wrote: “It’s my wife’s birthday. I met her when she was 16. We’ve been together almost 40 years. Sometimes you just find your soulmate, the person who is there through thick and thin. I don’t really believe in coincidence, I believe it’s all meant to be. I’m very lucky to have met someone who is an angel from up above.”
His post was met with an outpouring of support from fans and friends alike, who filled the comments section with heartfelt messages for Paula. His General Hospital co-stars chimed in with Finola Hughes (Anna) writing, “Happy birthday, gorgeous Paula.” Kate Mansi (Kristina) also commented, “Happy Birthday to the woman behind it all!” Benard’s other on-screen daughter, Scarlett Spears (Donna), wrote, “Happy Birthday, Miss Paula.” Even his castmate Steve Burton’s (Jason) wife, Michelle Lundstrom, shared, “Happy birthday!!”
Fans celebrate Paula
@silvaaza_glamourfoodie wrote, “Happy birthday to your beautiful love!” while @marla_moves added, “Happy Birthday, Paula.” Another follower, @cassmarie3131, shared, “I have now met her three years in a row, and each conversation has been a gift. She is the most humbled, caring human being to me and everyone she surrounds, and deserves to be appreciated today and always. Happy Birthday, Paula, you are so loved and matter.”
The love continued with @inmynewmeera2025 posting, “Happy Birthday Mrs Paula,” and @jenlovesyankees offering, “Happy birthday to your Paula Z, may god bless her today.” Many echoed the same sentiment, with @jeanie.andy23 writing, “Happy Birthday Paula! Best wishes for many more,” and @thee_morales adding, “Happy Birthday Paula!”
There was also plenty of gratitude in the mix. @jus2sweet__ commented, “Happy Birthday Paula. She is truly a good wife to you, and I'm glad you have her, Sonny. Finding the Love of your life is a gift. Have fun celebrating with the Family.” Meanwhile, @pawprints805 summed up what many were feeling: “Happy Birthday Paula! You both are blessed to have each other.”
Trending
As Sonny’s life grows more complicated on General Hospital, Benard’s real-life love story stands as proof of lasting devotion—a reminder that some bonds are built to weather anything.
General Hospital can be seen weekdays on ABC and Hulu.
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