Michael Norell was an American actor best known for his role as Captain Hank Stanley in the television series Emergency!, along with contributions to various TV shows and films. Born on October 4, 1937, in Wallace, Idaho, he spent a significant portion of his life in the entertainment industry.
Personal and Family Life
Michael Norell was born to James Alden Norell and Wilma Helen Snook. His father was a Brigadier General in the Army, which meant the family moved frequently during his childhood. Norell had two marriages; his first was to Elizabeth June Ingleson from 1965 until her death in 1983, and he later married Cynthia A. Cherbak in 1991, with whom he had two children. Cherbak is also a television writer.
Career
Norell’s career began on the stage after he completed his studies at Washington and Lee University and served five years in the Army, where he reached the rank of Captain. After moving to New York City to fully pursue acting, he landed the role in Emergency! after just six months in Hollywood. He also became a notable television writer, contributing to various popular series and receiving a Writer’s Guild Award for his work on The Incident in 1990.
Death and Legacy
Michael Norell passed away on May 12, 2023, in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. His legacy includes not only his memorable performances on screen but also his contributions as a writer in the television industry. He is remembered fondly by fans of Emergency! and the many other shows and movies he worked on throughout his career.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Police Story | 1973-03-20 | |
| Emergency! | 1972-01-22 | Capt. Hank Stanley |