Michael Kanin, the older brother of renowned writer, producer, and director Garson Kanin, was a talented individual in his own right. Prior to embarking on a career in the entertainment industry, Kanin served a creative apprenticeship by writing and acting in Catskill resort shows alongside his brother. Subsequently, he honed his skills as a commercial artist and musician.
In 1939, Kanin was signed to a screenwriting contract with RKO Pictures, where he met his future wife and frequent collaborator, Fay Mitchell. This marked the beginning of a successful partnership that would span many years. Kanin's breakthrough in the film industry came when he co-wrote the screenplay for MGM's Woman of the Year (1942) with Ring Lardner Jr. Their collaborative efforts earned them an Academy Award.
Kanin's subsequent work led to a best screenplay Oscar nomination for the 1958 comedy Teacher's Pet (1958),which he co-wrote with his wife. He also produced the popular Ronald Colman melodrama A Double Life (1947),penned by his brother Garson and Ruth Gordon. Furthermore, Kanin made a solo attempt at directing with the 1951 seriocomedy When I Grow Up (1951).
After 1960, Kanin's work began to show signs of being out of touch with contemporary audiences. He eventually retired from the industry, with his final project being the anachronistic Bob Hope vehicle How to Commit Marriage (1969).
