Michael McCleery, a notable individual, entered the world on August 18th, 1959, in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, to his parents, Robert S. McCleery and Virginia Kavanaugh McCleery. Following his birth, his family relocated to the charming city of Nashville, Tennessee, where his father, a highly respected and accomplished vascular surgeon, held a prestigious position as a surgical instructor at Vanderbilt Medical School.
Michael's familial heritage is a rich tapestry of diverse influences, with his ancestry comprising a dynamic blend of Scotch-Irish, Irish, German, French, and English roots. This complex cultural makeup was further shaped by his upbringing within the Irish-Catholic faith, which played a significant role in forming his values and worldview.
Meanwhile, his father, a decorated war hero who served with distinction in World War II, made a lasting impact on Michael's life. The elder Michael's experiences during the war had a profound effect on his perspective, as he became deeply committed to ensuring that veterans received the medical care they so rightfully deserved in the aftermath of the conflict. This dedication was a testament to the elder Michael's unwavering sense of duty and compassion, and it undoubtedly had a lasting influence on his son's life and values.
Michael's early years were marked by a brief stint at a pre-school in Nashville, a city he would later return to, before his family made the move to Great Falls, Montana, where his younger brother Gary would eventually be born.
The family made the decision to relocate to the esteemed town of Princeton, New Jersey, a place where Michael's fascination with the dramatic arts began to take shape, inspired by his initial exposure to Shakespearean productions at the renowned McCarter Theatre.
As he navigated his academic journey, Michael attended Princeton High School, where he had the privilege of being introduced to the highly respected and accomplished casting director, Marian Dougherty.
It was during his time at Princeton High School that Michael had the unique opportunity to be brought in to read for the film "The Friends of Eddie Coyle", a project that boasted an impressive cast, including the legendary actors Robert Mitchum and Peter Boyle.
Michael's nascent foray into the world of acting was marked by appearances in notable films such as "Harry & Tonto" and "Mother's Day", setting the stage for a promising career in the entertainment industry.
Michael's journey began in 1990 when he made the bold decision to relocate to the vibrant city of Los Angeles, a hub for creative expression and artistic endeavors. It was during this period that he took on supporting roles in two notable films, "Impulse" and "The Fires Within", further honing his craft and gaining valuable experience in the competitive world of cinema.
However, Michael's roots ran deep, and he soon found himself drawn back to his native Montana, where he immersed himself in the rugged and unforgiving landscape of a cattle ranch. This transformative experience allowed him to develop a profound appreciation and respect for the iconic American cowboy, a symbol of strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication.
Through his time on the ranch, Michael gained a deeper understanding of the trials and tribulations faced by those who work the land, and he emerged with a newfound sense of purpose and identity. His experiences in Montana not only shaped his perspective on the world but also influenced his artistic endeavors, imbuing his work with a sense of authenticity and a deeper connection to the human experience.
Michael, a talented individual, made a triumphant return to the vibrant city of Los Angeles in the year 1994, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career. His remarkable journey continued with a starring role in the esteemed Met Theatre's production of James Moody's captivating stage play, "The Fool". This outstanding performance did not go unnoticed, as casting director Mali Finn, a renowned expert in her field, took notice of Michael's exceptional talent and invited him to audition for the highly anticipated film adaptation of James Ellroy's critically acclaimed novel, "L.A. Confidential". As a result, Michael was selected to portray the character of Det. Carlisle, a pivotal role that further cemented his status as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
Michael's subsequent roles in the entertainment industry encompassed a diverse range of films, including "If I Die...", "Best Laid Plans", "Joy Ride", and "The United States of Leland". However, in a career pivot, Michael temporarily stepped away from acting to pursue a new passion, namely, becoming a certified personal trainer. After a brief hiatus from the spotlight, Michael made a triumphant return to acting in 2012, landing a significant role in the acclaimed HBO series "Luck", which was produced by the renowned filmmaker Michael Mann.
