Semifinalist, 45 Forward Screenwriting Fellowship (2026)
BIO
A Chicago South Side native, Michael forged his storytelling path through television production in Los Angeles, including work at "Jimmy Kimmel Live" and Black Entertainment Television. After a personal crisis led to a transformative experience in Alaska, he earned his MFA from Hollins University. His award-winning work includes television pilots "Wilderness," "Last At Bat," and "Moss," as well as the web series "Bless Your Heart," which won Best Web Series at Top Shorts' November 2022 competition. Currently teaching at Arizona State University and Scottsdale School of Film+Theater, Michael balances his academic career with raising two toddlers in Arizona, regularly returning to Alaska for story ideas and sockeye salmon fishing