Mike is one of four children born to a family that was deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. His father, Joe, a skilled carpenter, worked at Hollywood studios, where he left a lasting impression on the lives of his children. Mike's early years were spent attending grammar school alongside fellow future stars Natalie Wood and Ricky Nelson.
As he entered his teenage years, Mike made the courageous decision to enlist in the Marines, serving for two years before returning to his education. He then pursued his passion for acting at the prestigious University of California at Los Angeles, where he honed his craft under the guidance of renowned acting coach Jeff Corey.
Mike's big break in the film industry soon followed, leading to a string of prominent roles and eventually a regular spot on the popular soap opera Days of Our Lives in 1965. His success on the small screen paved the way for his iconic portrayal of Walter "Honeycutt" in the hit television series M*A*S*H, which premiered in 1972.
After M*A*S*H went off the air, Mike took a hiatus from series television, opting instead to focus on his own production company. One of his company's most notable projects was the biographical film Patch Adams, starring Robin Williams and based on Mike's personal friendship with the renowned doctor.
Mike is a dedicated advocate for social and political causes. He has been a vocal opponent of the firing of gay teachers and has spoken out against the US involvement in El Salvador during the 1980s. His commitment to public service has also led him to serve as a member of California's Commission on Judicial Performance from February 2, 1998 to February 28, 2001.
