Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Michael Sarrazin
Michael Sarrazin
Obituary
Guest Book
Michael Sarrazin Obituary
Sarrazin died Sunday in Montreal surrounded by family after a battle with cancer, said Michael Oscars, his agent and friend of 27 years, said Wednesday.
Born Jacques Michel Andre Sarrazin in Quebec City on May 22, 1940, he appeared in such films as "Sometimes a Great Notion," ''They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" and "The Flim-Flam Man," among others.
He also starred in the popular 1973 TV miniseries "Frankenstein: The True Story."
Sarrazin was remembered by his brother Pierre for his "wicked sense of wit," but fans might recall his "soulful eyes."
Major stardom proved elusive. Sarrazin suffered a professional setback in 1969 when he had to give up the role of Joe Buck in "Midnight Cowboy."
The actor was on his way to Texas for a costume fittin g when he found out his studio wouldn't release him from his contract, his brother said. He had to turn down a part that eventually went to Jon Voight.
"It was a very disappointing moment for him because the movie was wonderful," Pierre Sarrazin said. "Jon Voight's always been very gracious in mentioning that Michael had that role."
Sarrazin moved back to Montreal from Los Angeles a few years ago to be closer to his children.
Oscars, his agent, said the actor's daughters, Catherine and Michelle, were at his side when he died.
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
170 Entries
Jeanne Rice
July 27, 2025
I don´t say this about too many actors, but Michael is one I wish I could have met in person. He was an excellent actor, extremely good looking. My favorites with him are For Pete´s Sake and Buellah Land. I hope his family is doing well.
Peggy White
July 15, 2025
He was my dream actor. I could not believe I sat next to him at Barney's Beanery in LA early 1980's. Nothing would come out of my mouth, but he was very kind to me. RIP you are missed
Gary Gottlieb
April 21, 2025
Gumball Rally, I remember fondly . And other films .
June LaBarbera
February 22, 2025
You were a great actor one of my favorites so handsome, I'm watching you now on Ray Bradbury theatre you are dearly missed rip
How you can show support
James D McDaniel
December 11, 2024
Superior in his Craft.
Julie Devin
March 22, 2024
You touched my soul playing the tragic, yet 'beautiful' monster/creature in Frankinstein: The True Story. I watched other films of yours and loved your deeply spiritual eyes resonate in the roles you played. Rest in peace.
Joy Ziegler
November 11, 2023
I still think about you in my dreams I loved your work and you and Miss Bissets romance!!
Love and prayers Joyz❤✝
Suzanne Ivanoff
September 12, 2023
I loved Michael. He was great in the Reincarnation of Peter Proud. May he RIP
Joy Ziegler
August 29, 2023
I fell in Love with you in 3rd grade...the first time I got to stay up late and watch a monster movie started at 10:00 pm had my best friend Ann overnight. Mpls. MN 1974 the Frankenstein movie was on. I´m 57 now and you´re in Heaven where my daughter has been for 9 years. You have a special place in my heart
God blessing be on your family
Robert j Links
October 26, 2021
excellent actor especially in the Flim Flam man and They shoot horses don't they. My deepest condolences to his family.
Sandy Jones
December 4, 2020
What a wonderful actor. And like so many teenage girls & young woman crushing on him. Love his movie. I just can’t believe no ones has started fan club for him. I will keep looking.
Robert Sinko
June 16, 2019
Just watched him in the film flam man, he did a great job also saw him in many other films and he was always great. My condolences to his family .
Bob Sinko
Aquebogue, N.Y.
Crystal Brown-L'Heureux
January 23, 2019
I am so very sorry to learn of Michael's passing. He, was a great actor and a wonderful person, I extend condolences to his children, family and friends and all those who knew him best and loved him best.
I only knew of Michael from afar. Especially from his moves, and appearances. I also have always had the biggest crush on him.
I send my love and prayers to one and all,may God bless one and all.
December 6, 2018
He was one of the hottest and sexiest actors and i envied his leading ladies.
He will be missed.
God bless
L
February 23, 2018
Deepest condolences to Michael's loved ones. The Reincarnation of Peter Proud was one of his best movies. Michael is missed and will always be remembered in his work. God bless.
April 30, 2017
Love this man....bless his heart...
Janet Stanek
March 15, 2017
So sad he passed at a young age. He was awesome in every movie he was in. My favs are The Sweet Ride, Frankenstein, & Gumball Rally. But I do so luv all of his work. Has been & will be truly missed. Love & Peace to this gorgeous man.
Dawn Bishop
September 29, 2016
Always loved this man & his acting so sad he has passed. Rest in peace, we will always have you in your films...
Sharon Conaway
June 27, 2016
I first saw him in "The Reincarnation of Peter Proud" and then in a version of "Frankenstein" where he played the monster in a very different way. Always wondered what happened to him and made the mistake of thinking he died young because it seemed he just disappeared off the film map after a certain time. Glad he stuck around for a normal life span but sad he died of cancer. He was absolutely beautiful and was sensitive in both his looks and acting.
Maris Trecallion
April 11, 2016
Today is your birthday,I wish you were still here. Have lit a candle for you & laid flowers.RIP Michael. x
Harry Simpson
April 17, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
gloria dunkin
February 4, 2015
I just watched him in "Harry in your pocket" next to James Coburn in MGM channel & I had to look him up. Striking looks, great acting!
R.I.P.
June 19, 2014
better late than never so sad at his passing still watching Peter Proud what a great looking gur
March 29, 2014
I remember him standing up in 5th grade in St Dominic's on Delormier street in Montreal telling Mr Phelan's class he wanted to be an actor. I'm very glad he made it. R.I.P.
John Coady
Clara Rodríguez
July 21, 2013
I've been a fan of Michael Sarrazin since I was 13 years old, seen most of his films and he will forever be one of my top favorite actors. My favorite films are Frankenstein-The True Story, The Sweet Ride, and The Reincarnation of Peter Proud (couldn't put the book down after I saw the movie).
I was saddened today when I read that he passed away. I was watching For Pete's Sake on TCM and looked him up and was in shock when I read of his passing.
My condolences to his family. Rest in peace, Michael.....
January 20, 2013
I was thrilled to recently find and purchase a DVD of "The Reincarnation of Peter Proud" which I'm watching right now. I was thinking of you and how you might be doing. Terribly saddened to learn of your passing just now. You were a Beautiful man and a Wonderful Actor. May God bless your family with peace and comfort during this time. Rest in Peace Dear Michael ...
September 8, 2012
A beautiful Angel on Earth...now an Angel in Heaven...may you rest well on High. God bless.
Penny Barber
March 18, 2012
The best looking actor of all time and sexy
andy evans
August 15, 2011
A terrific actor, usaually in good stories.
I will miss him, his Frankenstien was the best
ANDY
Jenn Movielover
August 9, 2011
I just wachted "Sometimes a great notion" and wanted to check to see what he had been doing. Was so sorry and surprised to hear of his death. He seemed to show his qualities with his acting...gentleness and love of fun. Prayers for his family.
karen gould
June 27, 2011
An amazing actor,will so miss him,saw the "gumball rally" 14 times!dear michael rip.
Rob Castelli
June 18, 2011
Such an incredibly sad loss of such a great talent, "For Pete's Sake" was on a few nights ago on Turner Classic Movies, they mentioned Michaels passing, I watched it with a heavy heart. He was magical on screen with those hauntingly beautiful eyes..will you be missed Michael? You were irreplaceable. I wish I had a chance to meet you to tell you how much your pictures had an impact on my life. Rest In Peace, you will never be forgotten.
June 9, 2011
I said "OH NO" when I was so shocked. I missed him so much, I admired him. I remembered the first I saw him "Frankenstein: the True Story" was terrific. I'm only his fan.
Ms. L. Reis-Ong
Chicago area
Jeffrey Chase
June 7, 2011
I have been never forgotten about Michael's wonderful and funny actor since. Sometimes I loved to watch my favorite movie "The Flim Flam Man" with Michael and George. Then I learned and understood that Michael passed away and became his best peaceful in the heaven now. My sympathy to his family. God bless all you so much.
Jeffrey E. Chase
June 7, 2011
Michael was wonderful and funny actor since. Sometimes I loved to watch my favorite movie "The Flim Flam Man" with Michael and George. Then I learned and understood that Michael passed away and became his peaceful in the heaven. My real sympathy to his family. God bless all you so much.
June 2, 2011
ive only just found out michael died.so so sad.thought he was so handsome with those wonderful eyes!he was brilliant in Frankinsten the true movie.Rest in piece,and you will not be forgotten x tracy,chatham kent
Megan Philange
May 31, 2011
I'm so saddened by this.
May 31, 2011
Just found out we lost this wonderful actor. He was so talented and I really enjoyed his movies. My sympathy to his family.
Geraldine Mcfadden
May 31, 2011
Rest in peace Micheal
Julia Convery
May 29, 2011
I was so sorry to hear that Michael had died because I've been a lifelong fan. He was an excellent actor and I respected him for not seeking the celebrity limelight. My thoughts are with his family at this time.
AUDREY BELTON
May 15, 2011
i was saddened to find out about micheal sarrazin's passing. one of my favorite actors. first movie i seen him in was the seduction. my favorite movie of michael sarrazin is IN SEARCH OF GREGORY
May 14, 2011
Thank you for everything and rest in peace.
Janice Goosney
May 12, 2011
I am very saddened to hear of Michael's Passing.He was a Brilliant Actor.May you Rest in Peace.You will be sadly missed.My thoughts and prays to the family.
May 11, 2011
We miss you.
"GG" Bigrigg
April 28, 2011
I was saddened to read of Mr Michael Sarrazin's demise. Always enjoyed his work-a very talented actor.
Unfortunately, too often under-rated.
He is already missed here.
Rest In Peace, Michael Sarrazin.
"GG" Bigrigg/Fan
Carole Rocklin
April 27, 2011
The year was 1958 or 1959. I lived on Terrebonne Avenue and the Sarrazin's back garden almost abutted ours (they were on Walkley Avenue). I was friends with Enid and we all jammed in their basement. Michael's passing is truly a loss for everyone.
Gail Aspell-Sheehan
April 24, 2011
My sincere condolences to the Sarrazin family for the loss of their dear Michael. My late mother, Betty Aspell, worked with Michael's mom Enid in Montreal Trust for some years, and my mother had the wonderful chance of meeting Michael and Jacqueline Bisset, when they visited here back in the seventies.
Michael was a wonderful actor, and I know I speak for all Montrealers, when I say how proud we were to have Michael's name "up in lights" in Hollywood.
May the wonderful memories you have of Michael, bring you comfort, and may he rest in peace.
April 24, 2011
Pierre & Suzanne: We are deeply sorry to hear of Michael's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Terry & Lorraine Evanshen
Joanne W.
April 24, 2011
My condolences to the family of Michael Sarrazin. They Shoot Horses, Don't They? still stands out in my mind when the name Sarrazin comes up. Thank you for sharing your Michael with me, and all his fans, during his lifetime, and again bringing him home, on his passing.
Kathy Tickell
April 23, 2011
RIP Micheal. We will always remember you.
From a fan.
Kathy Tickell
April 23, 2011
I was very saddened to hear of Michael's death. I admired Micheal's work. He was a great actor. My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Michael's in your time of grieving. You will get through this. Be strong for one another. I was born in Montreal and moved to Ontario. Bless you and take care of each another.
Nurse Kathy
Victoria Harbour, Ontario
Mandy Owens
April 23, 2011
I discovered Michael Sarrazin in Gumball Rally, and have enjoyed his movies ever since. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Say "hello" to Raul Julia.
Richard Lauzon
April 23, 2011
Michael was a teen friend of ours. We used to hang out at Pickwicks (Earnscliff & Côte-St-Luc), play touch football in the postage size lot on that corner and be entertained by Michael in the evenings with his play acting. He showed promise way back then! Our sincere condolences to every member of his family.
julie
April 23, 2011
Surprised to hear that he passed, I always liked him. Cant believe he was 70, I just remember him as a younger man. My sympathy to his family. A fan in North Carolina
lesley Taylor
April 23, 2011
Deepest sympathies to the Sarrazin family. Michael was dearly loved and the tributes to him are heartwarming.
Lesley Taylor (MacKenzie)
Linda Allison
April 23, 2011
The first time I ever saw Michael Sarrazin was when I was a young teenager and I went to see "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" with some friends. We so enjoyed the movie, or at least I did. It was hard to understand at first, but then Michael made it fascinating. It made an impact on my life in the realization as to how fragile life could be.
My condolences to the family and my prayers for comfort at this time of loss.
Claire & Bernice Boutilier
April 23, 2011
To The Sarrazin Family
Our deepest sympathies, great people live in Point St Charles glad one of them was you, neighbour you will be missed. Rest in Peace
Reisa Rogovein
April 23, 2011
The loss of Michael Sarrazin is one not only to his family, but also to the world of drama. Rest in peace. Reisa Rogovein, Houston, Texas (formerly of Montreal)
Karen Miller
April 22, 2011
Rest in peace, Michael Sarrazin. I loved you in "Harry in Your Pocket". The world has lost a wonderful actor.
April 22, 2011
I feel very sad about hearing of Michael Sarrazin's passing. He was such a beautiful man and wonderful actor. I was in my early teen years when I discovered him and thought he was incredibly mesmerizing and talented. To his family and all who loved him, I send my deepest condolences.
Dee Parker
Belmont, NC
April 22, 2011
So glad he was a part of our lives through his talent as an actor. He made you feel as if he were the person he was portraying.
Peace to his family.
A Fan
DAN ZECCHINI
April 22, 2011
R.I.P.!!! MY FRIEND.
Gumball Rally 1976 ish
April 22, 2011
no date
April 22, 2011
Peter Proud 1974
April 22, 2011
Frankenstein 1973 ish
April 22, 2011
Pursuit of Happiness 1969 ish
April 22, 2011
circa 1968
April 22, 2011
April 22, 2011
Michael touched many with his sensitive performances. Condolences to his family and fans..........may he rest in peace.
Doris Cook, Sacramento, CA
April 22, 2011
I am very sorry to hear about Mr. Sarrazin's death. He was a wonderful actor. I am a professional actor and one of the reasons why I wanted to be one was after seeing incredible actors such as Michael Sarrazin perform. May his family be well and May He Be Happy In Paradise. T. Goodman
April 22, 2011
He lived his dream may he now rest in peace
Sherry Harrelson
April 22, 2011
I remember Michael Sarrazin from my teen years. I remember thinking how handsome he was. He was a wonderful actor. My sympathies to the family and friends.
April 22, 2011
My name's Judy. I used to live in Richmond, Va. between 1963-1979.. I remember seeing Michael on the big and small screen. II do remember seeing him as Frankenstein's Monster in "Frankenstein: The True Story". I'm not sure; but I think Kenneth Branagh played Dr. Frankenstein. he was a fairly decent actor and will be missed.
Judy nuckols
April 22, 2011
My name's Judy. I used to live in Richmond, Va. between 1963-1979. I remember seeing Michael on the big and small screens. I do remember seeing him as Frankenstein's Monster in "Frankenstein: The True Story". I'm not sure; but I think Kenneth Branagh played Dr. Frankenstein. Michael was a fairly decent actor and will be missed.
Karen
April 22, 2011
Good actor. God Bless.
Bobbie Vaughn
April 22, 2011
He was a good actor, its sad to hear he passed away, a good fan.
Joel Copeland
April 22, 2011
I remember the Frankenstien series very well. Michael was awesome in it. Truly a fine actor. I wish all the family well, and I will forever admire your father's excellent work.
Rita A. Redhouse-Yazzie
April 22, 2011
I was born in the 60's but I enjoyed watching Mr. Sarrazin on the screen. He was a very talented actor and very good looking! I admired his talent and his smooth performances. God be with you and your family and my deepest sympathies also. Rest in peace, you are already missed.
April 22, 2011
Sarrazin Families,
Sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Judy Taylor
Gingerrose
April 22, 2011
A short career, but a wonderful one. I waited a long time to see you once more.....Ginger, MA.
Norma D'Ermo
April 22, 2011
Sinceres condoleances a la famille et les amis de Michel. He was truly every Montreal girl's dream man back in the day. I had the fortune to briefly meet him when I was working at Eaton's in Montreal. He was a very charismatic, polite and gentle man. Loved all his movies. It's nice to see that so many from all over still remember. May you take comfort in knowing that Michael touched so many. He will be greatly missed. May God give you strength at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Michael!
Margaret Tardo
April 22, 2011
My prayers are with Michael Sarrazin and his family and friends. Those eyes were his charm and For Pete's Sake was my favorite all time movie. God has called another star to Heaven to watch over his family and friends. Prayers are with all.
Susan Gail Brown(Swope)
April 22, 2011
A wonderful actor.
Leslie Jones
April 22, 2011
I was very saddened to learn of Michaels demise. We lived across the street from the Sarrazin family on Mariette Ave. Knew his older brother Bobby & sister Nini. Remember the good times! Sincere condolences, Leslie Jones
David Lewis
April 22, 2011
He will always be remembered for his stellar performance in "The Flim Flam Man. Rest in Peace Michael...
Pam Martens
April 22, 2011
Was always a big fan. Whenever Flim Flam man was on I watched it. I enjoyed it simply because it was Michael and George. They had a good energy a good mix. So sorry for your loss. G-d bless you and keep you.
Donna Arpe
April 22, 2011
He will be so missed. I loved him in the Reincarnation of Peter Proud
Trish
April 22, 2011
I had a crush on Michael for years, I too feel in love with him during the movie......"Reincarnation of Peter Proud". My condolences to his family! May he rest in peace!
Bradford Thomas
April 22, 2011
I remember him in the movie "The Reincarnation of Peter Proud" awesome movie ! Mr. Sarrazin was great in that movie !
April 22, 2011
Oh my, I am so sorry to hear this. I was thrilled when I saw him a few years ago on an episode of "Cold Case"...I have always been a fan...especially since "The Reincarnation of Peter Proud"..he will be missed.
April 22, 2011
rip
Ralph Hahn
April 22, 2011
RIP, Michael. Seems that a lot of us remember him in "...Peter Proud" than some of the other films mentioned in the obit. I bought an out-of-print VHS of the movie awhile back. It was a favorite of mine from the '70s. I just saw the film a couple of weeks ago. May Michael's family and friends find peace.
julie
April 22, 2011
I was saddened to hear of the loss of Michael Sarrazin. He was my first crush as a young girl when I saw him in "Harry in my Pocket". My condolences go out to his family. He will be missed.
Alice Moore
April 21, 2011
One of my favorite actors.
April 21, 2011
I remember I had such a crush on him when he was at the height of his popularity. So sorry that he dropped from sight. He was quite a heart throb. Condolences to his family. - Fran Darms (Florida)
Catherine Migliano
April 21, 2011
I am truly sad to hear of Michael's passing. I remember him well from Flim Flam Man and They Shoot Horses, Don't They, along with his relationship with Jacqueline Bisset back in the 70's. His light and spirit will continue thanks to celluloid. Thanks 4 the memories, Michael! Fair winds.
Anne
April 21, 2011
Micahel was an actor of my generation. He was a fine actor and I enjoyed his work very much. He will be missed. Anne S. (Georgia)
Jacki
April 21, 2011
I am sorry for your loss. A great actor and I was a super fan of his.
Showing 1 - 100 of 170 results
Make a Donation
in Michael Sarrazin's name
How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Michael Sarrazin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored