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The Long and Rich Career of Michael McKean
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Actor, comedian, composer and musician Michael McKean is best known for co-starring in the spoofs This Is Spinal Tap, Best in Show and A Mighty Wind. McKean got his start playing Lenny in the 1970s sitcom Laverne and Shirley. He is currently co-starring in the Broadway revival of The Pajama Game.
As the rocker David St. Hubbins, McKean carved out a lasting spot in movie and music culture, as his spiky hair, British accent and spirit of excess lampooned stars of heavy metal. He helped write both the music and the screenplay of the film, which was directed by Rob Reiner.
McKean has worked on a multitude of projects. His Internet Movie Database entry for work as an actor runs to some 140 listings. He has continued to write music, as well. In 1996, McKean teamed with Spinal Tap co-star Christopher Guest to write several songs for Waiting for Guffman.
In 2004, a song McKean wrote with Annette O'Toole for A Mighty Wind, "A Kiss at the End of the Rainbow," was nominated for an Oscar. The film was written and directed by Guest.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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