Rory Gibson's Michael: A Progress Report

NuMichael has cast quite the ripple in Port Charles

First, let me say that I adore Rory Gibson as Michael Corinthos. He is a breath of fresh air that has reenergized the entire cast. But just showing up and looking pretty isn’t enough to sustain this central character long term, so let’s take a closer look at what has changed.

Dude can wear a suit.

1. His Relationship to Jason
   Jason has always played a significant surrogate dad and beloved uncle role for Michael, but the dynamic has shifted, and shifted significantly. When Jason and Michael talk now, it feels like two peers, two like-minded adult men who love one another deeply. Before, it felt more like Jason still thought of Michael as a “kid.” Jason definitely felt like the “Adult” in that relationship, but now they feel more on equal footing.

2. His Relationship to His Children
   Michael has been a good dad. Perhaps not the most attentive father, but hey, look at his examples. Whether it was the custody suit or the change in actor, Michael’s parenting feels much more present, and like he knows what he’s doing. Granted, this might have nothing to do with the actor and everything to do with how he’s being written. Regardless, this kind of dad works.

3. His Relationship with Curtis
   We’ve only seen a very few scenes of Michael interacting with Curtis, but once again, they feel like peers. Yes, I know they were considered peers before, but the previous Michael always felt like someone cosplaying a businessman. Now, Michael walks into a room, commands it, and he feels like the boss. I look forward to seeing him in his executive role.

   

   Daisy’s Pretty Parents

4. His Relationship with Sasha
   Daisy’s mom sure lights up when Michael is in the room. That one-night stand feels a whole lot more believable when you look at the way they moon at one another. Yes, CD’s Michael would look at Sasha as if he could eat her in one bite, but she always felt so much older and more mature than he was.
   
   Sasha has declared her “independence,” but I think she needs to do a bit more research on what it means to be a “single mom.” Hint: it doesn’t usually involve living in a mansion with the child’s father and his very entitled family. I have a feeling (I haven't seen Friday’s episode yet) that whatever catastrophe befalls Daisy will bring Michael and Sasha closer together.

5. His Relationship with Willow
   We haven’t really seen Willow and Michael interact that much since the recast, but I do sense a shift between them. Had Michael’s uncle not interfered with his little stunt with Wiley, there could have been some measure of reconciliation. But with Drew, we cannot have nice things. I think over the next several months, Michael and Willow’s relationship development will be interesting to watch. Of course, if Willow stays under the Congressman’s greasy thumb, there is no telling how bad it could get.

   

   Carly and Michael are demonstrating their excellent side-eye.

6. His Relationships with His Parents
   We have only had brief scenes with Michael interacting with his parents. Carly was supportive in the courtroom, and Sonny had spoken with him, explaining why he wouldn’t be there. But there hasn’t really been enough interaction to come to a solid conclusion, but that has never stopped me before. Therefore, I am leaping to the conclusion that Michael will have a more mature relationship with his parents. They will trust him more, listen to him more, and perhaps, (and that is a big if) not interfere in his life quite as much. (Yes, Carly, I’m talking to you!)

General Hospital is having a wee resurgence right now, and that is partially due to Rory Gibson joining the cast. It’s also because we’ve had some great storylines climaxing at the same time. When GH is good, more people tune in. And, believe it or not, when GH is good, it is easier to snark.