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Michael Irby

Early Life and Education

Michael Irby was born in 1972 in Palm Springs, California, and raised in nearby Cabazon by his parents, Cindy and Ernie Irby. He has two brothers, Jason and Ernest III. As a young man, Irby demonstrated a strong passion for soccer and was talented enough to represent Team USA in competitions in Europe. Unfortunately, his budding athletic career was cut short due to an injury, prompting him to shift his focus to academics and the arts.

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Following his injury, Irby attended College of the Desert and later transferred to Orange Coast College. Encouraged by a professor, he pursued acting and was accepted into the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA) in New York City. It was there that Irby began to explore theater, laying the foundation for his future in entertainment.

Transition to Acting

Michael Irby began his professional acting career in 1997. During his time at AADA, he appeared in the off-Broadway production of Corpus Christi by Terrence McNally. This early theater experience helped sharpen his performance skills and led to new opportunities. Around the same time, Irby also began writing poetry and shared his slam poetry at the Nuyorican Poets Café in New York, which contributed to his casting in projects such as the film Piñero.

Breakthrough Roles and Notable Appearances

Irby's breakout role came as Sergeant First Class Charles Grey in the action-drama television series The Unit, where he starred alongside Dennis Haysbert, Robert Patrick, and longtime friend and co-star Max Martini. The series brought him wider recognition for his commanding screen presence and nuanced performance.

In addition to The Unit, Irby has had roles in various television shows including Line of Fire, The Haunted, and Almost Human. His television career showcases his versatility in both procedural dramas and science fiction series.


Quick Facts
Birth Date: 16 Nov, 1972
Age: 47 yrs
Occupations: Actor
Film actor
Television actor
Citizenship: United States of America
Birth Place: Palm Springs
Education: American Academy of Dramatic Arts
Orange Coast College
Gender: Male
Description: American actor
Net Worth 2021: 2 million
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Last Modified: Nov 15 2025
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