Michael Gray, best known for his role as Billy Batson in the 1970s “Shazam!” series, has died at 75. He passed away of natural causes on October 16, according to his publicist, who confirmed the news on October 22.
Michael Gray’s career as a teen heartthrob and “Shazam!” star defined his legacy, but his journey from 1970s television to later roles in animated series and film showcased his enduring appeal. Born in Chicago on September 2, 1951, Gray rose to fame in 1972 with a role in NBC’s The Little People, followed by a 1973 appearance on The Brady Bunch as Marcia’s boyfriend. His breakthrough came in 1974 as Billy Batson, the teenage hero who transformed into Captain Marvel with a shout of “Shazam!” The series, which aired on CBS from 1974 to 1976, made him a household name.
A Career Shaped by ‘Shazam!’
Gray’s role as Billy Batson was both a blessing and a challenge. I didn’t know the character or the story when I was initially cast, so I had to be a quick study – so it was fun and exhausting, challenging and thrilling, all at once,
he recalled during a Comic-Con panel. The show’s live-action format and Saturday morning slot made it groundbreaking, though filming was not without its quirks. I remember when we were experimenting with the change from Billy to Captain Marvel, using a sort of flash device, and poof – the smoke would clear, and I was a little singed,
he said. They changed that real quick. That definitely didn’t work.
Despite the show’s success, Gray felt typecast after its conclusion. He stepped away from Hollywood in the 1970s, exploring careers in retail and even owning a flower shop. After too many hours working and not enough money, I quit that too, and now I work in one of the best men’s clothing stores in the country,
he said in an interview. His return to the spotlight came decades later, as Shazam! experienced a resurgence. In 2012, the series was remastered for DVD, reigniting interest in Gray’s work. I run into people ten times a week who ask me, ‘When is Shazam! going to come out on DVD?’ … And they just showed it (at San Diego Comic-Con), it’s happening now,
he said.
Legacy and Later Work
Gray’s influence extended beyond Shazam!. He voiced a fictionalized version of himself in the FX series Archer, appearing as one of Sterling Archer’s boyhood idols. He also joined the Surge of Power franchise, a superhero comedy series, and made a cameo in 2023’s Shazam! Fury of the Gods, where he interacted with Zachary Levi’s Captain Marvel. “From my very first day on Shazam!, Mike and Les [Tremayne] welcomed me like a king,” said co-star John Davey, who played Captain Marvel. Mike was just a loving, sweet guy with a great sense of humor. He loved acting, loved doing the show and, in recent years, loved appearing at comic cons.
Gray’s connection to his fans remained strong. I meet people [every day] who say, ‘You have no idea what you did for me as a child,’
he told Fanboy Planet. You helped me get through life. You made me the better man, or woman, that I am today.
His final years saw him balancing personal life with public appearances, including a panel where he reflected on the show’s lasting impact. It didn’t matter that it was on Saturday morning or prime time – though the fact that it was one of the first few live-action shows on Saturday morning was exciting. It truly was a thrilling show to work,
he said.
Personal Life and Final Days
Gray is survived by his wife, Stacy Benon Gray, whom he married in 1994, along with his stepchildren Ryan Cooper and Laurel Cooper, and son-in-law Lee Barker. His career, though marked by the shadow of Shazam!, was defined by his resilience and willingness to reinvent himself. After leaving Hollywood in the 1970s, he found fulfillment in retail and later in men’s fashion. It’s a job, and I enjoy it,
he said of his final career move.
Michael Gray, Star of 'Shazam!' TV Series, Dies at 75 https://t.co/gqZELqyHX9
Gray’s death marks the end of an era for fans of 1970s television. His role as Billy Batson not only shaped his career but also left an indelible mark on pop culture. As Shazam! continues to inspire new generations, Gray’s contributions remain a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of a hero who could turn ordinary boys into superheroes.
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Michael Gray, star of the 1970s “Shazam!” television series, has died at 75.In 1974, he joined the cast of “Shazam!” as Billy Batson, starring alongside John Davey and Les Tremayne in the series, which ran for three seasons until 1976.https://t.co/gqZELqzfMH pic.twitter.com/G7B8uKtfxJ