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Born Name:
Michael James McDonald
Born Date:
December 31, 1964
Born Place:
Fullerton, California
Died Date:
Died Place:
Occupations:
Stand-up comedian, actor, writer, director
Brief Biography:
Michael James McDonald is best known for being the longest-tenured cast member on the sketch comedy show MADtv.
Early Life & Career Beginnings:
McDonald graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) with a degree in Business and initially worked as a loan officer at a bank. At the suggestion of a friend, he attended a sketch comedy and improv show at the famous Groundlings Theater in Los Angeles. He quit his banking job, enrolled in the Groundlings program, and performed with the troupe from 1992 to 1997.
Breakthrough: MADtv:
In 1998, McDonald joined the cast of the Fox sketch comedy series MADtv. He remained on the show for 10 seasons, becoming its longest-running cast member. During his run, he wrote, directed, and created a variety of highly popular, bizarre, and recurring characters. His most iconic role was Stuart Larkin, an eccentric, hyper-dependent little boy whose catchphrases include "Look what I can do!" and "No, don't, I mean..."
Film & Television:
Beyond sketch comedy, McDonald has built a prolific career behind and in front of the camera.
Acting: He has appeared in several blockbuster comedies directed by Paul Feig, including The Heat, Spy, and The Boss. He also had a notable dramatic acting role as "Little John" in the horror sequel Halloween Kills (2021).
Directing & Producing: He has directed multiple episodes of television shows like Scrubs, Cougar Town, and Mike & Molly.
Voice Acting: He is recognized for providing voices for several animated series, including Howard McBride on Nickelodeon's The Loud House and characters on Invader Zim.
Stand-Up & Live Performances:
McDonald has continued to tour the country performing live stand-up comedy. His live routine often leans heavily into his upbringing, his mother's sense of humor, and his self-deprecating perspective on life and family.