Michael Greer was an American actor and comedian who is best known for his roles in “Fortune and Men’s Eyes,” “The Gay Deceivers,” and “The Magic Garden of Stanley Sweetheart.” He made a significant impact on stage and screen with his performances, particularly in roles that addressed LGBTQ+ themes.
Personal and Family Life
Michael Greer was born James R. Maley on April 20, 1943, in Galesburg, Illinois. He was open about his sexuality and took pride in depicting gay characters positively in his work. Despite facing challenges in the industry’s climate at the time, he left a mark with both his performances and his contributions to comedy.
Career Highlights
Greer is best known for his role as Queenie in both the stage and film versions of “Fortune and Men’s Eyes,” as well as his performance in “The Gay Deceivers.” He also gained recognition for his live comedy acts, often performing as a character called Mona Lisa. He contributed his talents to several iconic productions and was a pioneer for gay representation in cinema.
Death and Legacy
Michael Greer passed away on September 14, 2002, in Riverside, California, due to lung cancer. His work has been acknowledged by those who knew him or attended his performances, although he remains less recognized in mainstream discussions about gay cinema. He is remembered for breaking ground in the portrayal of gay characters in film and for his dynamic stage presence.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Messiah of Evil | 1973-05-02 | Thom |
| The Gay Deceivers | 1969-07-30 | Malcolm |
| Fortune and Men’s Eyes | 1971-06-15 | Queenie |
| The Magic Garden of Stanley Sweetheart | 1970-05-26 | Danny |
| The Curious Female | 1970-11-10 | Bixby |
| Summer School Teachers | 1974-08-01 | John John Lacey |
| The Lonely Guy | 1984-01-27 | Counterman |
| The Rose | 1979-11-07 | Emcee |