kids encyclopedia robot

Michael Caton facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Michael Caton
Michael Caton (34097004866).jpg
Caton in 2017
Born (1943-07-21) 21 July 1943 (age 81)
Occupation Actor, comedian, television presenter
Years active 1969–present
Spouse(s) Helen Esakoff

Michael Caton was born on 21 July 1943. He is a famous Australian actor, comedian, and TV host. Many people know him for playing Uncle Harry in the TV show The Sullivans. He also starred as Darryl Kerrigan in the popular 1997 movie The Castle. Later, he played Ted Taylor in the TV series Packed to the Rafters.

Early Life and Beginnings

Michael Caton was born in a town called Monto, Queensland. He spent his childhood growing up in Woolloongabba, which is a suburb of Brisbane.

Michael Caton's Media Journey

Michael Caton has had a long and successful career in television and movies. He started acting in the late 1960s.

Television Roles

In 1976, Michael Caton became well-known for his role as Uncle Harry Sullivan. This was in the long-running Channel 9 war family drama called The Sullivans. He appeared in many episodes of this popular show.

From 1983 to 1985, Caton also starred in another Australian drama series. This show was named Five Mile Creek. He played the character Paddy Malone.

Later, Michael Caton started hosting TV shows. Since 1999, he has presented two lifestyle programs. These shows are called Hot Property and Hot Auctions. They help people learn about real estate.

In 2005, he joined the third season of Dancing with the Stars. This was the Australian version of the popular dancing competition.

One of his most loved roles was Ted Taylor in Packed to the Rafters. This was a dramedy on Channel 7. He played the father of Julie Rafter and the grandfather to her children. He was part of the show from 2008 to 2013. He even returned for the sequel series, Back to the Rafters, in 2021.

Michael Caton also works with the Queensland rugby league team. He is their 'cultural ambassador'. This means he helps represent the team and its values.

Film Appearances

Michael Caton has starred in many Australian films. His most famous movie role is Darryl Kerrigan in The Castle. This low-budget film from 1997 became a huge hit. It is a comedy about a family fighting to save their home from being taken away.

Another important film role for him was in Last Cab to Darwin (2015). In this movie, he played a character named Rex. He also appeared in the 2020 film Rams.

On Stage

Michael Caton has also performed in live theatre. In 1971, he was part of the musical Hair in Melbourne. The next year, he was in the original Australian cast of Jesus Christ Superstar. He played a Priest in this famous musical. From 2007 to 2008, he performed in Priscilla Queen of the Desert - the Musical.

Music Connections

Michael Caton was part of the chorus for the 1972 original Australian cast recording of Jesus Christ Superstar. You can also hear his voice in the background of John Paul Young's 1975 hit song, "Yesterday's Hero". Because of his role in the movie Last Cab to Darwin, he sings on several songs from the film's soundtrack.

Awards and Recognition

Michael Caton has received many honors for his acting.

Honours

He has been added to the Australian Film Walk of Fame. This is a special honor that celebrates his contributions to Australian movies and television.

Film Walk of Fame Ritz Cinema Sydney 030
Caton's plaque at the Australian Film Walk of Fame, Ritz Cinema, Randwick, Sydney

Awards and Nominations

  • In 2011, Michael Caton won a Logie Award. This award was for Logie Award for Most Popular Actor for his role in Packed to the Rafters.
  • In 2016, he won a AACTA Award for Best Lead Actor. This was for his performance in the movie Last Cab to Darwin.

Personal Life

Michael Caton is married to Helen Esakoff. His son, Septimus, is also involved in television. Septimus is a narrator for shows like My Kitchen Rules and Robot Wars.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Michael Caton para niños

kids search engine
Michael Caton Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.