Michael Polley, a highly acclaimed and accomplished Anglo-Canadian thespian, is most notably and prominently associated with his profound connection to the multifaceted and exceptionally talented actress-director, Sarah Polley, who is, in fact, the cherished offspring of his late wife, the incomparable Diane Polley.
Michael Polley, a thespian born in England in the year 1933, embarked on a lifelong journey to hone his craft during the 1950s, a period marked by great upheaval and transformation in the world of acting. It was during this pivotal decade that Polley had the unique opportunity to study alongside none other than the illustrious Albert Finney, a renowned actor whose own path to stardom was filled with countless challenges and triumphs.
As Polley delved deeper into the world of acting, he found himself in the esteemed company of Finney, who, with his characteristic wit and humor, drew parallels between the profession of acting and that of bricklaying. This intriguing comparison served as a poignant reminder of the meticulous attention to detail and the unwavering dedication required to succeed in both art forms.
During the tumultuous decade of the 1960s, Polley made the bold and life-changing decision to uproot himself from his familiar surroundings and embark on a new journey by emigrating to the vast and diverse nation of Canada.
He tied the knot with Diane MacMillian, a union that would ultimately yield a brood of four offspring, consisting of a talented thespian by the name of Mark Polley, a skilled producer known as John Buchan, as well as a lawyer and a distinguished university professor.
Sarah's journey in the acting world began when she was just four years old, courtesy of her mother Diane's profession as a casting director. Diane, who is herself a talented actress, played a pivotal role in launching Sarah's career, utilizing her expertise to secure the young girl's first acting opportunities.
Michael Polley, a dedicated individual, embarked on a professional journey as an insurance agent, diligently working to provide for his family's well-being. Meanwhile, as his wife Sarah's career began to flourish, he remained an unwavering source of support, often accompanying her to film sets, including the acclaimed production of Terry Gilliam's "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen" in 1988, where he even made a minor on-screen appearance.
Michael, a renowned actor, has garnered widespread recognition for his prolific acting career, with a notable recurring role as the town doctor on his daughter's esteemed television series, Avonlea, which premiered in the year 1990.
Throughout his illustrious career, Michael has continued to captivate audiences with his versatility and range, as evidenced by his significant part in Sarah's directorial debut, The Shields Stories, a television series that showcased his talents in the mid-2000s, specifically in 2004.
As a testament to his enduring appeal, Michael's performances continue to leave a lasting impression on fans and critics alike, solidifying his status as a beloved and respected figure in the world of entertainment.
Michael's romantic association with Sarah Polley, a renowned Canadian actress, filmmaker, and writer, was extensively examined in her critically acclaimed documentary feature film, Stories We Tell, which premiered in 2012.
