Michael Des Barres

Michael Des Barres (born 24 January 1948) is a British actor and rock singer. He first attracted attention as an actor in To Sir, with Love in 1967. He continued to act in small roles throughout the following years, even as he pursued success in rock and roll.

Related Topics:
24 January - 1948 - British - To Sir, with Love - 1967

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He was the lead singer in the 1970s rock bands Silverhead and Detective, then released a solo album I'm Only Human in 1980. He was part of the band Checquered Past from 1982 to 1984, and during that time wrote the song "Obsession," which became a hit when covered by Animotion in 1985.

Related Topics:
1970s - Silverhead - Detective - Checquered Past - Animotion

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Des Barres met the members of Duran Duran when Checquered Past opened for a few shows during their 1984 tour. In 1985, when Robert Palmer withdrew from the Duran Duran side project Power Station just before their American summer tour, Des Barres was chosen to take his place as lead vocalist. He performed live with them for several months before they disbanded, including a set broadcast to millions at the 1985 Live Aid charity concert in Philadelphia. Des Barres' friendship with actor Don Johnson got Power Station a guest appearance on Johnson's TV show Miami Vice. He wrote one song with the band, "We Fight For Love" which appears on the soundtrack to the movie Commando.

Related Topics:
Duran Duran - Robert Palmer - Power Station - Live Aid - Don Johnson - Miami Vice - Commando

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He released a second solo album Somebody Up There Likes Me in 1986.

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Des Barres then appeared in the movie Nightflyers, and then in his famous recurring role in MacGyver as the apparently indestructible international assassin Murdoc. He has had numerous guest appearances on other successful TV shows. He also had a lead role in the movie Midnight Cabaret, and was part of the cast of The New WKRP In Cincinnati.

Related Topics:
Recurring role - MacGyver - Midnight Cabaret - The New WKRP In Cincinnati

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He was married to legendary groupie, actress and author Pamela Des Barres from 1977 to '91. She alleged he had numerous affairs.

Related Topics:
Groupie - Pamela Des Barres

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