General Hospital Performer of the Week: Maurice Benard as Sonny Corinthos

General Hospital's Maurice Benard has been taking Sonny Corinthos through a journey this year as the mobster character has faced his immortality, while also dealing with family fallout from his career choices.

This week, Sonny's public persona collided with his personal one in a big way, with a subtle but powerful performance from Benard.

Sonny's heartache hits close to home

Rocco's words stung Sonny on General Hospital | Image: ABC

Sonny's tough guy attitude took a backseat during one vulnerable moment when he overheard something that broke his heart more than a woman could. It was supposed to be a joyous afternoon celebrating Dante's (Dominic Zamprogna) birthday, but that joy turned to sadness when Sonny overheard Rocco (Finn Carr) tell Dante he didn't want his Grandpa to attend his debate.

The moment Sonny heard, "Unless Grandpa doesn't go to my debate," Benard showed us that one facial expression can replace pages of dialogue to know exactly what a character is feeling. We saw a mix of shock, heartbreak, disappointment, and understanding in just a few brief seconds.

Benard gives General Hospital's Sonny a stiff upper lip

Sonny told Carly about his heart condition | Image: ABC

In the next scene, we watched Benard help Sonny regain his composure almost immediately, as he didn't hide the fact that he had heard Rocco's words. He gave Sonny his usual suit of emotional armor. Sonny told Rocco that he understood why he didn't want him at the debate. The press would hound Laura (Genie Francis), and the mayor would come under more pressure over her friendship with Sonny.

Sonny's hurt was palpable in his voice, thanks to Benard knowing his character and how to convey his emotions without becoming emotional. He knows when the moments need to be subtle, and he also knows when to go all in.

As Sonny has dealt with the realities of his heart condition, we have also seen that stoicism in him. After processing Rocco's words, Sonny visited Carly the next day and finally told his ex-wife about his heart condition. We could see the fear in his face as he talked about the surgery, but we didn't hear it in his voice. He knows he is dealing with something life-threatening, but is not about to show anyone how terrified he is.

When Sonny finally does have his surgery this coming week, we expect some incredible performances from both Benard and Laura Wright, and we can't wait.

Catch all-new episodes of General Hospital weekdays on ABC and Hulu.