Micheal McNally - Producer

"When I was 18 I went to study law at the former Newcastle Polytechnic. I did a year there, but I got invited to go up for a film. I ended up getting the lead part in one of the first Film on Four's. That was my first big break and I left my law studies after that, moved to London and got an agent."

The work was pouring in. Michael played the Liverpool Playhouse, the Newcastle Playhouse and ended up doing a season at the Royal Shakespeare Company where he worked alongside the likes of Gary Oldman. He certainly doesn't feel he missed out by not having had a formal training. "Some actors really benefit from training, but some just learn from experience. I think some people go in and have knocked out of them what they instinctively have...

For Tynesiders Michael is probably a familiar face. After a fairly long stint of theatre his career seemed to veer away from acting as he got more and more presenting work, including a two year run of his own show, 'McNally'. I also did Going Live with Phillip and Sarah, and then I did the Holiday Programme for a year and traveled all round the world presenting little films from exotic locations such as Poole in Dorset... Following this I was offered the role as the latest transfer in BBC 2’s award winning gritty drama “The Cops”

"I did think about going back to finish the degree a few years ago, but no. I'd much rather carry on with what I'm doing and hope I'm on the right track!"

For the last four years Michael has become involved in a new area of work what he feels passionate about that is with young offenders. Through introducing young offenders to drama and the performing arts in a young offenders institution in County Durham remarkable results have already been achieved and it continues to grow and grow. Young men, most of whom, have been written of by society through his work have gained self esteem, confidence and empathy all pointing towards no re-offending.

Michael met Simon six years ago and was struck by his outstanding potential as a performer, also his work ethics and determination. Michael is proud to be involved in Simon’s work and looks forward to exciting successful ventures together.