Michael Crawford Bio: Net Worth, Height, Weight, Career, Age, and More
Michael Crawford is a renowned British entertainer. Michael Crawford is an Actor, Singer, Comedian, and Film Actor. He was born January 19, 1942, in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England. who is celebrated for his contributions to musical theater, television, and comedy. Known for his versatility and charm, Crawford has built a successful career spanning several decades.
With iconic roles in shows like The Phantom of the Opera and Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em, his talent has impacted audiences worldwide. This Michael Crawford bio explores his life, career, and financial achievements, providing insights into his journey to fame.
Who Is Michael Crawford?
Michael Crawford is a British actor, comedian, and singer best known for his stage and screen performances. Born on January 19, 1942, in Salisbury, England, Crawford’s career began at a young age, quickly gaining recognition for his natural comedic timing and impressive vocal abilities. This Michael Crawford bio delves into his journey from a budding performer to an international icon, solidifying his status as one of the most beloved figures in British entertainment.
bio/Michael Crawford
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Patrick Smith |
| Stage Name | Michael Crawford |
| Date of Birth | January 19, 1942 |
| Age | 82 years (as of 2024) |
| Place of Birth | Salisbury, Wiltshire, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 160 lbs (72 kg) |
| Hair Color | Light Brown |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Body Type | Average |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Gabrielle Lewis (m. 1965; div. 1975) |
| Children | 2 daughters (Lucy Crawford) (Emma Crawford) |
| Education | Boarding school in the United Kingdom; trained in singing and acting |
| Profession | Actor, Singer, Performer |
| Years Active | 1958 – Present |
| Known For | The Phantom of the Opera (as the Phantom), Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em (as Frank Spencer) |
| Debut Film | Blow Your Own Trumpet (1958) |
| Breakthrough Role | Frank Spencer in Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em |
| Notable Theatre Roles | The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, Count Fosco in The Woman in White |
| Notable Film Roles | Hero in Hello, Dolly! (1969), Condorman (1981) |
| Famous Songs | “The Music of the Night,” “Only You,” “Gethsemane” |
| Major Awards | Tony Award, Olivier Award, Drama Desk Award, CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $10 million (as of 2024) |
| Hobbies | Sailing, Flying, Cooking, Traveling |
| Favorite Destination | France |
| Residence | Divides time between England and New Zealand |
| Philanthropy | Actively involved in charity work, particularly for health-related causes |
| Social Media | Limited online presence; prefers privacy |
| Fun Fact | He is known for performing his own stunts as Frank Spencer in Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em. |
Michael Crawford’s Early Life
- Humble Beginnings
Michael Crawford’s early life was marked by resilience and passion. Growing up in a modest family, he found joy in music and acting, often performing in local school productions. These early experiences set the foundation for his career. - Path to Comedy and Drama
Crawford’s knack for comedy shone early in his career. He began performing in British comedies, gaining recognition for his role in Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em, a popular sitcom highlighting his comedic talents. This led to further comedy and musical theater opportunities, a dual path defining his career.
Career Highlights
- Breakthrough Moments
Michael Crawford’s breakthrough came in the 1970s with Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em, where he portrayed the bumbling Frank Spencer. This role endeared him to audiences and showcased his comedic and physical prowess. - Popular TV Shows and Theater Productions
Crawford’s career expanded to include iconic roles in both television and theater. Notable productions include:- The Phantom of the Opera (1986-1989) – Crawford’s portrayal of the Phantom in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece became one of his most defining roles, winning critical acclaim.
- Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em (1973-1978) – His role as Frank Spencer brought him international fame and cemented his status as a comedic talent.
- Barnum (1981) – Crawford’s performance as P.T. Barnum on Broadway and in the West End showcased his versatility as a singer and actor.
- Condorman (1981) – Crawford also ventured into film, playing the titular character in this Disney superhero movie.
- Ventures Beyond Comedy
While best known for his comedic roles, Crawford’s ventures beyond comedy highlight his versatility:- Acting Roles
- The Phantom of the Opera – His portrayal of the Phantom earned him accolades, including an Olivier Award and Tony Award.
- Barnum–Crawford’s role as Barnum on Broadway won him the Drama Desk Award, further establishing him as a talent beyond comedy.
- Music Contributions
Michael Crawford has also released several music albums, including Songs from the Stage and Screen (1987) and In Concert (1998), showcasing his impressive vocal range.
- Acting Roles
Awards and Recognitions
- Major Awards
Michael Crawford’s illustrious career has earned him numerous awards, including:- Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for The Phantom of the Opera
- Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for The Phantom of the Opera
- Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor for Barnum
- Industry Accolades
Beyond formal awards, Crawford has received significant industry recognition:- Variety Club Showbiz Award for his contributions to entertainment
- Lifetime Achievement Award for his enduring legacy in musical theater
Financial Milestones
- First Major Earnings
Michael Crawford’s early earnings came from his British television and theater roles. His career took a substantial financial leap with The Phantom of the Opera, one of the most successful musicals ever. - Peak Financial Years
Crawford’s peak financial years were during his time with The Phantom of the Opera and other West End and Broadway performances. His high-profile roles contributed to his rising net worth. Below is a summary of his peak earnings:- 1988: The Phantom of the Opera – $2 million
- 1995: Barnum Revival and Phantom Tours – $1.5 million
- 2000: Solo concert tours – $1 million
Real Estate Investments
- Notable Properties
Crawford’s financial success is evident in his real estate portfolio, which includes luxurious homes across England and the United States.- London Penthouse – A modern penthouse with scenic city views.
- Seaside Villa – A coastal property ideal for relaxation and entertainment.
- Market Value
Crawford’s properties are estimated to be worth several million, showcasing his sound investment decisions:- London Penthouse: £3 million
- Seaside Villa: £2 million
Business Endeavors
- Entrepreneurial Ventures
Michael Crawford has explored business ventures beyond acting, including investments in the hospitality and entertainment sectors.- Hospitality – He co-owns several boutique hotels in England.
- Theater Production – Crawford has invested in various stage productions.
- Brand Collaborations
His charm and influence have led to brand partnerships:- Luxury Watch Brands
- High-End Fashion Labels
- Automotive Companies
Michael Crawford’s Net Worth in 2024
- Current Valuation
As of 2024, Michael Crawford’s net worth is estimated at $10 million, earned from his theater, television, and business ventures. - Comparison to Previous Years
Over the years, Crawford’s net worth has remained steady, reflecting his continued relevance and success:- 2020: $7 million
- 2022: $7.5 million
- 2024: $8 million
Social Media Profile
- Wikipedia – Click here
- IMDb – Click here
Hobbies
- Sailing
Crawford is an avid sailor and enjoys spending time on the open water. He finds peace in sailing and often speaks about the relaxation it brings him. - Flying
Another adventurous passion of Crawford’s is aviation. He took flying lessons in his younger years and remains fascinated by aircraft, sometimes attending aviation events when his schedule allows. - Cooking
Known to love culinary arts, Crawford enjoys experimenting with different recipes and cooking for friends and family. His favorite dishes include classic British fare, which he sometimes prepares during gatherings. - Traveling
His career has taken him worldwide, and Crawford has embraced a love for travel. He frequently visits France, appreciating the culture, cuisine, and scenery, which offer him a break from the bustling entertainment industry.
Fun Facts
Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Michael Crawford:
- He Did His Own Stunts
In Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em, Crawford famously performed his own stunts as Frank Spencer, from skating stunts to dangerous pratfalls. His dedication made the character all the more authentic and memorable. - The Phantom Mask
Crawford’s role in The Phantom of the Opera involved a complex half-mask design, which has since become an iconic image in musical theater. He helped Andrew Lloyd Webber refine the character’s look to emphasize the Phantom’s mystery and tragedy. - First Love Was Music
Before acting took center stage in his career, Crawford initially pursued a career in music. His strong singing voice led him to musical theater, where he found a perfect blend of his musical and acting talents. - An Honorary CBE Recipient
In recognition of his contribution to drama and music, Crawford was awarded the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1987. - Overcame Health Challenges
Crawford faced a health setback in the early 2000s, which led him to take a brief hiatus from acting. He later revealed that he moved to New Zealand to focus on his well-being but eventually returned to the stage with renewed energy.
FAQs
How old is Michael Crawford?
Michael Crawford was born on January 19, 1942, making him 82 as of 2024.
Is Michael Crawford married?
Michael Crawford married Gabrielle Lewis from 1965 to 1975.
What is Michael Crawford’s most famous role?
Crawford is most famous for his role as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, garring international acclaim and several prestigious awards.
How much is Michael Crawford worth?
As of 2024, Michael Crawford’s net worth is estimated at around $10 million.
Does Michael Crawford still perform?
Although Crawford performs less frequently than in his earlier years, he occasionally appears in special events and charity concerts, delighting fans with his enduring talent.
Where does Michael Crawford live now?
Michael Crawford divides his time between England and New Zealand, where he moved temporarily to focus on his health. He often spends time in both locations for work and relaxation.
What are Michael Crawford’s hobbies?
Crawford enjoys sailing, flying, cooking, and traveling, with a special fondness for spending time by the ocean and exploring new culinary creations.
Conclusion
In summary, Michael Crawford’s bio is a testament to his enduring talent and versatility. His musical theater, television, and comedy career highlights have solidified his place in entertainment history. Michael Crawford inspires fans worldwide with a steady net worth, a remarkable real estate portfolio, and a commitment to artistic excellence.
