Michael's entry into the world of comedy was seemingly predestined. Years prior, in a crowded Grand Rapids, Michigan movie theater, the projector malfunctioned, and the film snapped, leaving the house lights on. On a dare, young Michael jumped onto the stage, capturing the attention of the restless crowd. When the theater manager attempted to usher him off, the audience demanded he stay, and Michael Jr. discovered his gift.
Comedian George Wallace provided Michael with his first break, taking him to the legendary Comedy & Magic Club in Hermosa Beach, a hub for talented comedians, including Jay Leno and "The Tonight Show" staff. The club's owner gave Michael a chance to shine, and a week later, he was performing at the prestigious "Just for Laughs" comedy festival in Montreal, where he made history by becoming the first comedian to appear live via satellite on "The Tonight Show."
This groundbreaking performance catapulted Michael's career, leading to numerous appearances on prominent television shows, including "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," Comedy Central, TV One, "The Late, Late Show," BET's "ComicView," Jimmy Kimmel Live, SiTV, CNN, "The Tom Joyner Show," "The Bob and Tom Show," "DayBreak USA," and "Bryon Allen's Comic Unleashed." Michael has also performed at the most renowned comedy clubs across the nation, such as The Improv, The Laugh Factory, The Comedy Store, The Punchline, The Comic Strip, and Zanies Comedy Club.
In addition to his television appearances and comedy club performances, Michael has also taken his talents to major universities, including Notre Dame, the University of Massachusetts, and the University of Alabama, as well as church events, such as the 60,000-member Willow Creek Church in Chicago, the 17,000-member West Angeles Church in Los Angeles, and the 10,000-member New Life Church in Colorado Springs.
Michael's ability to seamlessly transition between the heartland and the inner city, churches and prisons, corporate events and youth rallies, is attributed to his concept of comedy accountability. This versatility has enabled him to author a children's book, "The Parts We Play," be featured in the successful comedy DVD "Thou Shalt Laugh," and make his directorial debut with "Comedy: The Road Less Traveled."
On a personal note, Michael is happily married to his wife, and they are the proud parents of five beautiful children.
