General Hospital star Maurice Benard faced one of his most challenging roles yet, far removed from the fictional drama of Port Charles. The Daytime Emmy-winning actor, known for playing mob boss Sonny Corinthos, announced on October 12, 2026, that he was preparing to officiate the wedding of his youngest daughter, Cassidy Benard.
While Benard spent decades navigating intense storylines, shootouts, and dramatic television weddings on screen, he admitted that presiding over a real-life family milestone left him terrified. Taking to Instagram to share his nerves with fans, the actor posted a heartfelt message alongside a picture with his daughter.
“Friday, my baby girl @cassidybenard is getting married, and I’m terrified!!!” Benard wrote on social media. He explained that his anxiety stemmed entirely from the emotional weight of the moment, adding, “Only because I have to officiate and I’m thinking it’s gonna be through a lot of tears. Wish me luck.”
A Look Inside the Benard Family Celebration
Cassidy is the youngest of three daughters that Maurice shares with his wife of over three decades, Paula Smith Benard. The couple shares a close-knit family that includes daughters Cailey and Heather, as well as their son, Joshua Benard. Joshua followed in his father’s footsteps into the daytime television industry, appearing on General Hospital in 2022 as Adam Wright and previously portraying a younger version of Sonny Corinthos.
Cassidy’s journey to the altar began with a romantic proposal in April 2025. Her now-husband, Anthony Cammarata, surprised her during a trip to Japan by popping the question at Disneyland. At the time, a proud Maurice gushed over the couple on social media, writing that they were “two peas in a pod” and noting that the proposal felt straight out of a fairytale.
Not His First Time at the Altar
Though the actor expected an overwhelming wave of emotion, this milestone was familiar territory for him. Maurice previously officiated the wedding of his eldest daughter, Cailey, describing the opportunity as a true honor and privilege.
Fans and colleagues flooded social media with supportive messages, offering encouragement and tips for keeping the tears at bay as the big day arrived. As the ceremony unfolded, the beloved soap opera star proved once again that his most important and cherished role is simply being a devoted father.
