Mike Schank, a well-known musician, and actor, died on October 13, 2022, at the age of 56. Schank rose to prominence after appearing in the 1999 documentary film American Movie, for which he also wrote music. On social media, filmmaker Edgar Wright paid homage to Schank, writing:
“Mike Schank, the lovely and hilarious person at the center of the wonderful documentary ‘American Movie,’ has died. We were captivated by it, and because Mike’s home phone number was available on the DVD extras, we contacted him from London one night. If you haven’t watched it yet, please do so right now.”
Mike Schank was afflicted with cancer.
Mike died in his mother’s arms on Thursday morning, according to the Milwaukee Record. The reason of death, however, was not immediately known. It should be emphasized that Schank was diagnosed with cancer in June 2022 and was in the latter stages of the disease at the time. He announced the news on Facebook, writing:
“I was just diagnosed with a rare kind of cancer. It began in my esophagus and progressed to my liver, lungs, and a variety of other organs. It’s stage 4, and they won’t be able to cure it, but they will attempt to manage it with radiation and chemotherapy.”
However, it is uncertain if cancer had a factor in his demise. However, it has been established for the time being that he was not hospitalized prior to his death and may have died as a result of other health conditions.
Twitter users pay tribute
Mike Schank has earned notoriety in recent years for his roles in films such as Hamlet A.D.D., Small Change, Modus Operandi, and others. Even as the years passed, the guitarist remained a fan favorite. However, upon the news of his unexpected death, Schank’s followers and admirers flocked to social media to express their sadness and pay their respects to the musician.
RIP Mike Schank. Whenever I’m feeling like filmmaking is a massive uphill battle, I watch AMERICAN MOVIE and remember that it is possible to attain your dreams. Thanks for all of the inspiration. #RIPMikeSchank #AmericanMovie pic.twitter.com/2EWIN8XxM1
— 👻 Sane the Uncanny 🎃 (@mrjsane) October 13, 2022
RIP Mike Schank. If asked what my favorite movie is, I often say “American Movie.” The world needs more friends like Mike. pic.twitter.com/WqgWBFnbES
— 7/11 Truther (@DaveMcNamee3000) October 13, 2022
All About Mike Schank
Mike Schank, who was born in the United States on August 3, 1966, was a close friend of independent filmmaker Mark Borchardt and helped him produce the short film Coven. Coven was shot in black-and-white using Milwaukee actors. Despite conflicting reviews, the short film showed Mark as a skilled director. Following that, Mike participated in the 1999 documentary film American Movie. It was directed by Chris Smith and released in November 1999. It studied the creation of Coven. Critics gave it favorable reviews. Schank portrayed a loyal and laid-back buddy as well as a superb musician.
Schank appeared in an episode of Family Guy, a Fox adult animated comedy. He also worked as a cameraman in the 2001 comedy-drama film Storytelling. Schank continued to work with Borchardt on programs like Mark and Mike and presented a nationwide television special called Night of the Living Dead: Live from Wisconsin on Halloween night.
Prior to his death, he marked his 27th year of sobriety with a tweet stating that August 3 was his 27th clean and sober birthday. Schank never mentioned anything about his personal life, and it’s unclear if he was married or dating anybody. Details regarding his work, parents and educational background are still unknown.
