Michael A. Hoey, the son of renowned character actor Dennis Hoey, was born in London and relocated to the United States as a child, growing up in the vicinity of the Hollywood studios. It was during this formative period that Hoey developed a passion for the entertainment industry, which ultimately led him to pursue a career in the business.
Initially, Hoey began his professional journey in the editing room, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. He subsequently expanded his scope by forming a production company, Bardin Productions, in partnership with actor Britt Lomond. This collaborative venture yielded the documentary The Legend of Mandinga in 1961.
In the early 1960s, Hoey joined Warner Brothers, where he worked alongside director Norman Taurog on several notable Elvis Presley films. Additionally, he independently wrote and directed the science fiction horror film The Navy vs. the Night Monsters in 1966.
Throughout his illustrious career, Hoey has continued to wear multiple hats, working as a writer-producer-director on the popular television series Fame in 1982, as well as contributing to numerous television series episodes and TV movies. Furthermore, he has been involved in the writing, directing, and editing of various television programs.
From 1997 to 2006, Hoey, alongside John Moffitt, served as executive producers of the Creative Arts Emmy Awards, solidifying his position as a respected and accomplished figure in the entertainment industry.