Shazam star Michael Gray dies aged 75 in California

Actor Michael Gray died on Friday, October 16, in Palm Desert, California, at the age of 75, according to Variety, Deadline, ScreenRant, and TV Line. Deadline and TV Line reported that his representative and publicist confirmed he died of natural causes. [1][2][3][4]

Gray was best known for starring as teenager Billy Batson in the live-action superhero series Shazam!, which aired on CBS for three seasons from September 1974 to October 1976 as part of its Saturday morning lineup, TV Line reported. His character turned into Captain Marvel, played by Jackson Bostwick and later John Davey, whenever he said the title word, according to TV Line and The Hollywood Reporter. [1][2][4][5]

Early in his career, Gray was cast in NBC series The Little People in 1972 alongside Brian Keith and Shelly Fabares, Variety and Deadline reported. Variety, TV Line, and The Hollywood Reporter noted that his other television work included playing Marcia's boyfriend Jeff on The Brady Bunch, alongside appearances on Dynasty, Marcus Welby, M.D., Room 222, and The Flying Nun. [1][2][4][5]

Gray was born on September 2, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois. After stepping away from full-time acting following Shazam!, he later made voice appearances on the animated series Archer and made a cameo in the 2023 feature film Shazam! Fury of the Gods. [13]