Michael Norell Obituary and Cause of Death
by Abinaya
Updated May 27, 2023
Who is Michael Norell?
Michael Alden Norell (October 4, 1937 – May 12, 2023) was an American screenwriter, actor, and executive producer. He is best known for his role as Captain Henry "Hank" Stanley in the Jack Webb-produced television series Emergency! from 1972 to 1978. Norell was born in Wallace, Idaho, and raised in Arlington, Virginia. He attended Washington and Lee University, where he majored in journalism. After graduating, he enlisted in the United States Army and served for five years.
After leaving the Army, Norell moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. He landed a role in the television series Police Story, and then was cast as Captain Stanley in Emergency! Norell played Stanley for six seasons and was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 1976.
Michael Norell Obituary
The world bids farewell to Michael Alden Norell, a distinguished individual hailing from Huntingdon, PA, who passed away on May 12, 2023, at the age of 85. Born on October 4, 1937, in Wallace, ID, he was the son of the late James Alden and Wilma Helen (Snook) Norell. Michael's educational journey led him to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree from Washington and Lee University in 1959.
Following his academic pursuits, he dutifully served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1964, demonstrating his commitment to his country. Michael embarked on a path that showcased his exceptional talents as an actor, writer, and producer. His memberships in esteemed organizations such as the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, Writers Guild of America West, Actors Equity Association, and Sigma Delta Chi are testaments to his dedication and expertise in the entertainment industry.
In recognition of his outstanding writing abilities, Michael received the prestigious Writers Guild Award for Longform in 1990, solidifying his place among the literary elite. While Michael's journey was not without its sorrows, having experienced the loss of his parents, brother James, and first wife Liz, he found love and companionship once again.
He married Cynthia Ann Cherbak in 1991, and their union endured for 32 fulfilling years. Cynthia, residing in Toluca Lake, CA, remains his cherished wife. Michael leaves behind a loving daughter, Chelsea Cherbak Norell of Eagle Rock, CA, and a devoted son, James Cherbak Norell of West Los Angeles, CA, who will forever cherish the memories they shared with their exceptional father.
As we honor the memory of Michael Alden Norell, we reflect upon his multifaceted life filled with artistic brilliance and literary achievements. His contributions to the entertainment industry and his ability to captivate audiences through his performances and writings have left an indelible mark. The legacy he leaves behind serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors, writers, and producers, reminding them of the power of talent, dedication, and perseverance.
In this time of remembrance, we extend our deepest condolences to Cynthia Ann Cherbak, Chelsea Cherbak Norell, James Cherbak Norell, and all those whose lives were touched by the extraordinary presence of Michael Alden Norell. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Michael Norell Died
Yes, Michael Norell died on May 12, 2023, at the age of 85. He was best known for his role as Captain Henry "Hank" Stanley in the television series Emergency! from 1972 to 1978. Norell was born in Wallace, Idaho, and raised in Arlington, Virginia. He attended Washington and Lee University, where he majored in journalism. After graduating, he enlisted in the United States Army and served for five years.
After leaving the Army, Norell moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. He landed a role in the television series Police Story, and then was cast as Captain Stanley in Emergency! Norell played Stanley for six seasons and was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 1976.
After Emergency! ended, Norell turned to screenwriting. He wrote for several television series, including The Love Boat, Nash Bridges, and The Magnificent Seven. He also wrote several made-for-television movies, including The Incident, for which he was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series or a Movie in 1991.
Michael Norell Early Life
Norell made his entrance into the world on October 4, 1937, in Wallace, Idaho. His parents, Wilma Helen Snook (1905–2001) and James Alden Norell (1908–1989), played significant roles in shaping his early life. With his father serving in the Army, the family, including Norell's brother James, relocated frequently, following his father's assignments.
Eventually, his father reached the esteemed rank of Brigadier General and was deployed to Korea during the war. For a period, the family resided in Tokyo, Japan. After the war, Norell returned to the United States and attended Falls Church High School in Virginia, where he discovered his passion for acting by participating in various school productions. Continuing his education, he enrolled at Washington and Lee University, focusing his studies on journalism.
Upon completing his college degree, Norell embarked on a five-year journey in the Army, attaining the rank of captain before concluding his military service. Transitioning into civilian life, he joined the Richmond Times-Dispatch, delving into the field of journalism. However, drawn to the allure of acting, Norell relocated to New York City, immersing himself in the craft on a full-time basis. Shortly thereafter, he ventured to Hollywood, where he successfully secured the role of Captain Henry "Hank" Stanley in the acclaimed television series, Emergency!
In addition to his acting prowess, Norell exhibited his talent as a screenwriter, penning four episodes of Emergency!. This foray into writing marked the beginning of his career in the realm of screenwriting. Reflecting on the process, Norell described how he would pitch ideas for rescues, hospital stories, and firehouse tales to executive producer Bob Cinader.
Once an idea resonated with Cinader, Norell would proceed to develop the concept further, eventually delivering a first draft. Subsequent revisions and rewrites were then handled by other writers.
Michael Norell Obituary - FAQ
Michael Norell was an accomplished American screenwriter, actor, and executive producer, best known for his role as Captain Henry "Hank" Stanley in the television series Emergency!.
Michael Norell passed away on May 12, 2023, at the age of 85.
Michael Norell achieved recognition for his portrayal of Captain Henry "Hank" Stanley in the TV series Emergency! from 1972 to 1978. He was also a talented screenwriter, contributing to various television shows and movies.
Michael Norell was born in Wallace, Idaho, and raised in Arlington, Virginia.
Michael Norell attended Washington and Lee University, majoring in journalism.