Toby Michaels
Actor
About Toby Michaels
Toby Michaels was an American actor who had a brief but memorable appearance in Roger Corman's cult classic 'The Little Shop of Horrors' (1960). His career appears to have been extremely short-lived, with his only known film credit being this iconic B-movie. In the film, he played the character of the Burson's Delivary Boy, a small but notable role in the ensemble cast that populated Seymour Krelborn's chaotic world. Like many actors who appeared in Corman's quick productions, Michaels was likely a local actor or someone hired for a day's work rather than an established performer. The film itself was shot in just two days and three nights on a budget of approximately $30,000, which explains the use of many non-professional or one-time actors. After this appearance, there is no record of Michaels continuing in the film industry, suggesting that this role may have been his only venture into acting. His contribution, however small, became part of cinema history as 'The Little Shop of Horrors' evolved from a quickie production to one of the most beloved cult films of all time.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in Roger Corman's 'The Little Shop of Horrors' (1960)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Toby Michaels, despite his brief appearance, became part of one of cinema's most enduring cult phenomena. 'The Little Shop of Horrors' has transcended its humble origins as a quickie B-movie to become a cultural touchstone, spawning a successful off-Broadway musical, a 1986 musical film adaptation, and countless references in popular culture. Every actor who appeared in the original film, including Michaels in his small role as the delivery boy, contributed to the film's unique charm and lasting legacy. The film's success story—from a rushed two-day shoot to international cult status—serves as a testament to how even the smallest roles in cinema history can become part of something truly special.
Lasting Legacy
Toby Michaels' legacy is tied directly to the enduring popularity of 'The Little Shop of Horrors.' While he may not have had a substantial career in film, his contribution to this beloved cult classic ensures his place in cinema history. The film's remarkable journey from exploitation movie to cultural phenomenon means that even minor players like Michaels are remembered by dedicated fans and film historians. His appearance represents the type of grassroots filmmaking that characterized Roger Corman's productions, where local talent and aspiring actors could participate in creating something that would ultimately stand the test of time.
Who They Inspired
As a bit player with only one known film credit, Toby Michaels did not have a direct influence on other performers or filmmakers. However, his participation in 'The Little Shop of Horrors' contributes to the film's status as an example of how low-budget, quickly produced films can achieve lasting cultural significance. The film has inspired countless filmmakers and demonstrated that creativity and enthusiasm can overcome budgetary limitations, a lesson that continues to influence independent filmmakers today.
Off Screen
Very little is known about Toby Michaels' personal life, as he appears to have been a one-time actor rather than a professional performer. Like many bit players in Roger Corman's films, he was likely hired locally for the production and did not pursue a career in entertainment beyond this single appearance.
Did You Know?
- The Little Shop of Horrors was shot in just two days and three nights
- The film's budget was approximately $30,000, making it one of the most profitable films ever made relative to its cost
- Jack Nicholson, who later became a major star, appears in the film as a dental patient
- The film was reportedly written in a week by Charles B. Griffith
- Director Roger Corman claimed he never made a film in fewer days than 'The Little Shop of Horrors'
- The film's plant, Audrey Jr., was operated by up to four people at different times
- The film was originally titled 'The Passionate People Eater'
- Many of the actors, including likely Toby Michaels, were paid very little or worked for experience
- The film's success inspired a 1982 off-Broadway musical and a 1986 musical film
- The original film has been selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Toby Michaels?
Toby Michaels was an American actor who appeared in Roger Corman's 1960 cult classic 'The Little Shop of Horrors' as the Burson's Delivery Boy. His acting career appears to have been limited to this single film appearance.
What films is Toby Michaels best known for?
Toby Michaels is known exclusively for his role in 'The Little Shop of Horrors' (1960), where he played a delivery boy. This appears to be his only film credit.
When was Toby Michaels born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Toby Michaels are not publicly available, as he was not a professional actor with a documented career beyond his single film appearance.
What awards did Toby Michaels win?
Toby Michaels did not receive any awards or nominations for his brief acting career. His contribution was limited to a small role in 'The Little Shop of Horrors'.
What was Toby Michaels' acting style?
Given his brief appearance as a delivery boy in 'The Little Shop of Horrors,' there is insufficient material to determine a distinct acting style. Like many bit players in Corman films, he likely provided a straightforward, functional performance.
Was Toby Michaels a professional actor?
It appears Toby Michaels was not a professional actor, but rather someone hired for a single role in Roger Corman's production. Many actors in Corman's low-budget films were local hires or people working for experience rather than established performers.
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Films
1 film
