Michael Smith was an American actor who is best known for Ma Barker’s Killer Brood, The Activist, and December Bride. He was born on August 29, 1945, in Burbank, California, and passed away on December 3, 1982, in Hollywood, California.
Personal and Family Life
Michael, the younger of two boys, was born to Glenn Smith and Marie Carrillo. His mother played a significant role in supporting his early career in entertainment. As a child, he trained in various dance styles and gained experience as a performer, being an original Mouseketeer on The Mickey Mouse Club at just nine years old. After leaving the show, he continued to develop his skills in dance and performance.
Career Highlights
Michael showcased talents in singing, tap dancing, and square dancing. After his time with The Mickey Mouse Club, he danced with Karen Larsen, specializing in ballroom and square dancing. The duo claimed a trophy in a waltz competition at the Palladium, highlighting their achievements outside of acting. Michael’s active participation in both dance and television laid a foundation for his career in the entertainment industry.
Death and Legacy
Michael Smith died on December 3, 1982, at the age of 37, making him the first original Mouseketeer to pass away. His contributions to television and film, along with his childhood fame as a Mouseketeer, left a memorable mark on those who followed his career. His early work and talent continue to be remembered by fans of classic television.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Ma Barker’s Killer Brood | 1960-02-03 | Fred – as a Boy |
| The Young Lions | 1958-04-02 | Draft Board Member (uncredited) |
| Bye Bye Birdie | 1963-04-04 | Teenager (uncredited) |
| The FBI Story | 1959-10-01 | George Crandall at 12 (uncredited) |
| The Activist | 1969-12-10 | Mike Corbett |
| All Access | The Documentary | 2023-03-07 | Self – World Champion |