Michael Mantenuto was an American actor who is best known for his roles in Miracle, Surfer, Dude, and Dirtbags. Born on May 13, 1981, in Holliston, Massachusetts, he gained recognition for his talent before his untimely death on April 24, 2017.
Personal and Family Life
Michael was married to Kati Vienneau and they had two children together. His father, Ed, was an assistant principal and hockey coach at Holliston High School. In 1993, Ed suffered a near-fatal stroke that left him paralyzed and mute for three years, but he eventually recovered after considerable rehabilitation. Michael learned to skate and play hockey at a very young age, guided by his father’s passion for the sport.
Career
Before becoming an actor, Mantenuto was recruited to play hockey by several universities, including Boston University and the University of Maine. He eventually chose to attend the University of Maine for hockey. Michael also served in the US Army, completing his basic training at Ft. Benning, Georgia, in 2010. His breakthrough role came when he apologized to director Gavin O’Connor after an on-ice fight during tryouts for the film Miracle, which ultimately led to his casting as Jack O’Callahan.
Death and Legacy
Tragically, Michael Mantenuto passed away on April 24, 2017, in Des Moines, Washington, due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His death was a shock to family, friends, and fans who admired his work. Despite his struggles, his contributions to film and his impact on those who knew him leave a lasting legacy.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Miracle | 2004-02-06 | Jack O’Callahan |
| Surfer, Dude | 2008-09-05 | House Poser |
| Dirtbags | N/A | N/A |