Last updated on: August 30, 2025
Michael Hawkins was born Thomas Knight Slater on December 26, 1938, in Queens, New York. He spent part of his early years growing up in Texas and Tennessee before he settled in Long Island. As a young boy, he enjoyed acting. He participated in school plays and relished being on stage. Acting became a huge part of his life at an early age.
Quick Facts About Michael Hawkins
| Full Name | Thomas Knight Slater |
| Stage Name | Michael Hawkins (aka Michael D. Gainsborough) |
| Birthdate | December 26, 1938 |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Husband/Wife | Mary Jo Slater (1966–1976) |
| Died | 14 November 2022 |
| Age at Death | 83 years |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Grandchildren | Jaden Christopher Haddon-Slater, Eliana Sophia Haddon-Slater, Lena Slater |
| Children | Christian Slater (son) |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Acting Career
Hawkins began working in television acting. He worked under the stage name Michael Hawkins and occasionally Michael D. Gainsborough. He made appearances in CBS soap operas such as Search for Tomorrow, As the World Turns, and Love is a Many Splendored Thing.
His best-known character was Frank Ryan on Ryan’s Hope from 1975 to 1976. He also made appearances in some films. His final performance was in 1988’s Midnight Run. Hawkins made his mark with powerful performances. But he did experience some difficulties. Sources indicate alcoholism hampered his career. He also had issues working with some directors.
Personal Life
Hawkins wedded Mary Jo Slater, a casting director, in 1966. They had a child, Christian Slater. Hawkins’ son Christian became a well-known actor. Hawkins and Mary Jo divorced in 1976.
Hawkins and Christian were once estranged. They did not talk to each other for some time. Later, they were reconciled and mended their relationship. With problems, Hawkins cherished his family.
Christian Slater’s siblings are his brother, Ryan Slater, and sister, Helen Rachel Slater. Christian has three children: Jaden Christopher Haddon-Slater, Eliana Sophia Haddon-Slater, and Lena Slater (born 2019). Christian has been married twice, to Ryan Haddon (2000–2006) and currently to Brittany Lopez (2013–present).
Later Years
Later on in life, Hawkins experienced personal and professional challenges. It is reported that he sued his ex-wife and son. He alleged that comments regarding his mental health and acting career damaged him. Hawkins’ later years were characterized by these problems, though he stayed in touch with his son and the acting community.
Death
Michael Hawkins died on November 14, 2022, in Los Angeles, California. He was 83. His death brought to an end a life that had been filled with acting, with family, and with personal battles. Hawkins left a legacy of what he did as an actor and through his son, Christian Slater, who is still shining in Hollywood.
READ ALSO: Christian Slater Net worth, Age Wife, Family, Facts & More
Legacy
Michael Hawkins lived a career that other actors can only hope for. He acted on soap operas, TV, and in films. His characters earned him fame and respect. Despite his personal issues, he left a mark on the people around him.
Hawkins’ life is also about family. His life was also interwoven with Christian Slater, a popular actor. The two had a rollercoaster relationship that culminated in a stronger one. Michael Hawkins will be remembered as an avid actor and a father.
