He was perhaps best known for his unforgettable turn as Hamlet in 1980 (his third Hamlet for the company, having first appeared as the base of a twelve-foot mobile Ghost in 1965) and, over 20 years later, his stirring performance in the title role of Timon of Athens in 2003.
Michael’s final appearance with the company came in 2012, playing John of Gaunt alongside David Tennant in Gregory Doran’s critically-celebrated staging of Richard II; a full circle moment and a fitting end to a truly historic career.
An understated master of his craft and a true actor’s actor to the end, such was Michael's deep-seated love of the theatre that he famously turned down a major Hollywood role to return to Stratford-upon-Avon back in 1980.
For this, and so much more besides, we thank him. In the words of Mark Antony, “There’s a great spirit gone” …but by no means forgotten.
Our thoughts go out to all those who knew and loved him.
Daniel, Tamara and Andrew
