FILM & TV
Welcome to a comprehensive look at Michael Riley's remarkable career in film and television. This page is a tribute to his extensive body of work, from award-winning television series to unforgettable feature films, that showcases the depth of his work over the decades.
2025 - Doc: "Something To Prove" - S2E4
In this medical drama, Michael Riley guest-stars as Grant, a man drawn into a proxy dispute that tests personal conviction and moral responsibility.
2023 – Ruby and the Well : “I Wish I Was the Next Well Keeper” - S3E8
Canadian family fantasy drama series that revolves around a magical wishing well that helps people in the town of Emerald. Michael Riley portrays a man with schizophrenia in this episode where Ruby gets the worst-possible wish.
2022-2024 - Transplant (TV Series)
Michael Riley appears in a recurring role as Theo’s father in this critically acclaimed medical drama.​
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2020 - Like a House on Fire
In this Canadian drama, Michael Riley plays Jack, the supportive father of the main character, Dara—who returns home after two years to reconnect with her estranged family.
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2018 - Insomnia : "Because We Can" - S1E8
An action drama filmed in Moscow about a high-stakes, illegal endurance contest. Michael Riley appears as Dr. Engels in the series finale of Season 1.​
2012 - Hardsell (Short Film)
Rick Miller stars as a TV host seeking meaning in his life, while Michael Riley plays Daniel, the director trying to boost ratings.
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2012 - My Mother's Secret aka The Good Daughter (TV Movie)
Michael Riley portrays Gabe, a supportive love interest to a woman uncovering her biological mother’s criminal past.
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2012 - Willed to Kill (TV Movie)
In this thriller, Michael Riley plays Dr. Aaron Kade, a police-appointed therapist assisting a homicide detective investigating murders reminiscent of a past serial killer.​
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2009-2011 - Being Erica (TV Series)
In this acclaimed Canadian series, Michael Riley portrays Dr. Tom, the mysterious therapist who helps Erica Strange confront her choices by sending her back into key moments from her past.
2009 - Mr. Nobody
In this movie about the life of a 118 year-old man, Michael Riley plays Harry, his mother's boyfriend (and later, girlfriend's father) back when he was a teenager.
2009 - Flashpoint : "Coming to You Live" - S3E5
Canadian police drama that follows an elite team of officers from the Strategic Response Unit (SRU) as they handle high-stakes situations. In this episode, Michael Riley guest-stars as a radio shock jock who threatens to kill a politician on air.
2008 - The Tenth Circle (TV Movie)
Lifetime movie that centers around a family whose secrets come to light after their daughter's ex-boyfriend, whom she accused of rape, is found dead.​ Michael Riley plays Mike Bartholomy, who is caught in the emotional fallout of the family tragedy.
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2008 - Murdoch Mysteries : "Bad Medicine" - S1E11
Set in 1895 Toronto, this series revolves around William Murdoch, a young detective who uses radical forensic techniques to solve varied cases. In this episode, Michael Riley plays Dr. Greyson, co-founder of a medical research institute haunted by a sinister specter.
2007 - Normal
Directed by Carl Bessai, this feature film sees Michael Riley in the role of Carl, one of three strangers bound together after the accidental death of a young man.
2007 - Race to Mars (Miniseries)
Michael Riley stars as Rick Erwin in this speculative miniseries about a 2030 manned mission to Mars.
2007 - St. Urbain's Horseman (Miniseries)
Adapted from Mordechai Richler’s novel, winner of the 1971 Governor General's Award. Michael Riley portrays Harry Stein in this story of psychological and social conflict.
2007 - What You're Ready For (Short Film)
As his marriage collapses, Michael Riley’s character, a spiritual guide, helps the narrator navigate profound personal transformation.
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2005 - Supervolcano (Miniseries)
Inspired by BBC’s documentary, Michael Riley stars as Dr. Rick Lieberman in this four-hour miniseries dramatizes the threat of a Yellowstone super-eruption.
2005 - Missing : "Off the Grid" - S3E4
In this Lifetime series about an FBI agent who helps locate missing persons through her cryptic psychic visions, Michael Riley guest stars as the abusive husband of a kidnapped woman.
2004-2006 - This Is Wonderland (TV Series)
Michael Riley co-stars as quirky and sarcastic lawyer Elliot Sacks in this gritty courtroom drama following the complexities of the Toronto legal system.
2004 - The Perfect Husband aka Her Perfect Spouse (TV Movie)
In this Lifetime movie Michael Riley plays Ty, a husband whose picture-perfect façade unravels with disturbing consequences.
2004 - Sugar
In this gritty drama set in Toronto’s underground, Michael Riley plays a john whose world intersects with a troubled teen.
2004 - Cube Zero
Michael Riley plays Jax, the main antagonist, in the third installment (but prequel) of the cult horror franchise Cube bout strangers trapped in a giant maze.
2004 - Saving Emily aka Blood Trap (TV Movie)
Michael Riley plays a troubled ex-con who reconnects with his estranged family to save his daughter’s life as a potential bone marrow donor.​
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2003 - America's Prince: The John F. Kennedy Jr. Story (TV Movie)
The title says it all… Michael Riley plays Douglas Conte, a biographer of JFK Jr.
2003 - C.S.I. Crime Scene Investigation : "Lady Heather's Box" - S3E15
In this episode of one of the the most watched TV show in the US, and People's Choice Award winner for Best Series, Michael Riley plays Steven McCormick, a character connected to a murder investigation.
2003 - Veritas: The Quest : "Sangraal" - S1E6 (unaired)
The show follows a father and son team who seek the truth behind the mysteries of history and civilization. Michael Riley guest-stars in this episode, where the team goes to Tibet to rescue a kidnapped woman and find the Holy Grail.
2003 - Homeless to Harvard (TV Movie)
Based on the true story of Liz Murray, this movie tells the moving story of a young woman who turned her life around after being raised in severe poverty. Michael Riley portrays her loving yet drug-addicted father.
2003 - DNA (Short Film)
Premiered at the 2003 Toronto Film Festival, Michael Riley stars in this haunting tale of grief and memory.
2002 - 2004 - Ace Lightning and the Carnival of Doom
Michael Riley lends his voice to the CGI character Ace Lightning in this live-action/CGI hybrid series.
2002 - The Associates : "Ground Zero"
in this legal drama about bright young lawyers working at Young, Barnsworth & King in Toronto, Michael Riley guest-stars as Gary Sanger, a YBK lawyer from the New York firm.
2002 - Rideau Hall : "The Royal Pain"
The show followed the newly elected Prime Minister and his secret agenda to get rid of Canada's links to the monarchy. In this episode, Michael Riley appears as Lyle, a legendary music producer who approaches the Governor General to record a song.
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2002 - The Interrogation of Michael Crowe (TV Movie)
Docudrama based on a real-life case where a 14-year-old boy was coerced into confessing to his sister’s murder. Michael Riley plays Stephen Crowe, the distraught father of the accused.
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2002 - 100 Days in the Jungle (TV Movie)
Michael Riley stars in this tense drama about oil workers kidnapped by Colombian guerrillas while on a job in Ecuador.
2002 - Punch
Michael Riley stars as Sam, a single father struggling to connect with his teenage daughter after she punches his date.
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2001 - The Way We Live Now (Miniseries)
Based on Anthony Trollope's novel set in the 1870's London, the miniseries follows Augustus Melmotte, a shady financier, who lures prominent citizens and politicians into a colossal get-rich-quick scheme. Michael plays Hamilton K. Fisker, an American businessman.
2000 - Mile Zero
Michael Riley stars as a father who kidnaps his young son after a painful divorce. Michael described this film as “the hardest thing” he’s done.
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2000 - The Outer Limits : "Decompression" - S6E13
In this episode of the sci-fi anthology series, Michael Riley plays a man warned by a mysterious woman of impending disaster.
2000 - The Last Debate (TV Movie)
Michael Riley plays a political magazine editor embroiled in the fallout of a scandalous political debate.
2000 - Black Swan aka Murder in Hopeville
In this indie feature, Michael Riley portrays a hometown boyfriend standing between his ex and her path forward.
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1999 - The Outer Limits : "Better Luck Next Time" - S5E22
In this episode of the sci-fi anthology series, Michael Riley appears as a compelling witness in a crime-centric supernatural tale.
1999 - Win, Again (TV Movie)
In this movie written by and starring Gordon Pinsent, Michael Riley portrays John Morrissey, the estranged son of a man returning to his hometown after being on the run from the law for 14 years.
1998-2000 - Power Play (TV Series)
Michael Riley stars as Brett Parker, a former sports agent turned NHL general manager in this series that focuses on the high-stakes and chaotic world of professional hockey.
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1998 - Ice (TV Movie)
In this post-apocalyptic drama, following a group of survivors struggles to escape a frozen world, Michael Riley plays Greg, who joins the group of survivors on their perilous journey to a warmer place.
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1998 - Style & Substance : "Chelsea Gets an Opinion"- S1E5
Michael Riley has a guest role as a producer in this short -lived comedy starring Jean Smart.
1997 - Heart of the Sun
A harrowing drama about a farmer's wife believing she’s cursed with infertility. Michael Riley portrays a local priest involved in a wrenching town secret.
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1997 - The Grace of God
Michael Riley stars in this darkly humorous personal odyssey in which director Gerald L'Écuyer attempts to make sense of life and love in a series of short, lyrical vignettes.
1997 - Pale Saints
Michael Riley plays Dody, the sidekick to a con artist attempting one last heist before heading to California, but their plan quickly spirals out of control.
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1997 - Every 9 Seconds (TV Movie)
Michael Riley plays Ray, who supports a crusading journalist helping abused women through crisis hotlines.
1997 - Amistad
Michael Riley appears briefly as a British officer at the end of this Steven Spielberg's historical drama.
1996 - Crimes of Passion: Voice from the Grave (TV Movie)
Michael Riley plays Adam Shuster, a key role, in this supernatural movie about a woman possessed by the spirit of a co-worker who wants to bring her killer to justice.
1996 - The Prince
Michael Riley’s character, Roy Timmons, gets tangled in a web of political and personal intrigue orchestrated by Jamie Hicks (Billy Dee Williams), whose modus operandi is Machiavellian philosophy.
1996 - Heck's Way Home (TV Movie)
A heartwarming tale of a dog's journey across Canada to reunite with family. Michael Riley plays father Rick Neufeld.
1996 - Dogmatic (TV Movie)
A magical comedy where Michael Riley’s character, Dennis Winslow, and his dog swap bodies after being struck by lightning.
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1995 - Due South : "A Hawk and a Handsaw" - S1E12
In this episode of the beloved Canadian-US police comedy, Michael Riley guest-stars as psychiatric patient Walter Sparks.
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1995 - Strauss: King of 3/4 Time (TV Special)
Part of the Composer's Series, this special showcases Michael Riley as Johann Strauss who helps a young boy not to live in fear of his stepfather.
1995 - The Possession of Michael D. aka Legacy of Evil (TV Movie)
Michael Riley plays a parapsychologist, Dr. Nick Galler, investigating a couple’s supernatural affliction. He must uncover a secret from the husband’s past to perform an exorcism and free him from the demonic entity.
1995 - French Kiss
In this romantic comedy, Meg Ryan plays a woman who flies to France to confront her straying fiancé. Michael Riley plays M. Campbell, a Canadian consulate employee (cut from the TV edit).
1994 - Race to Freedom: The Story of the Underground Railroad (TV Movie)
The movie follows the escape of four slaves, two men and two women, who flee the oppressive clutches of their plantation and begin a harrowing trek toward Canada. Michael Riley portrays Dr. Alexander Ross, a Canadian abolitionist who helps them.
1994 - The Facts Behind the Helsinki Roccamatios (TV Movie)
Michael Riley stars in this poignant tale of friendship and illness in which two University students try to pass the time after one of them contracts AIDS.
1994 - Butterbox Babies (TV Movie)
In this true-story drama, Michael Riley portrays Russell Cameron, a health inspector who exposes a couple running an adoption ring from a home for unwed mothers in 1930s-'40s Nova Scotia.
1993 - The Making of '...And God Spoke'
Michael Riley stars as naive, pretentious film director Clive Walton in this documentary-style look at the making of a major biblical film.
1993 - Because Why
In this charming character study of change and self-discovery, Michael Riley stars as Alex, who returns to Montreal after a five-year absence.
1993 - Lifeline to Victory (TV Movie)
Michael Riley stars as Captain Paul Devereaux who, along with a crew of inexperienced sailors, battle the fierce menace of the German navy during WWII.
1993 - Mustard Bath
In this atmospheric journey of grief and reflection, Michael Riley portrays Matthew Linden who revisits his birthplace of Guyana, South America after his mother's death.
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1993 - Street Legal : "Fit Punishment" & "What's Love Got to Do with It?" S8E8&9
Michael Riley plays Adam Ruskin, a man accused of child molesting seeking parole, in two episodes of this Canadian long-running legal drama series about a law firm in Toronto.
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1992 - To Catch a Killer (TV Movie)
In this two-part TV movie based on the real-life case of serial killer John Wayne Gacy, Michael Riley portrays Joe Kozenczak, the small-town detective obsessed with proving Gacy’s guilt.
1991 - Diplomatic Immunity
Michael Riley portrays Les Oberfell in this political drama about a Canadian diplomat who lands in El Salvador and tries to clean it up before a Ministerial visit.
1990 - Perfectly Normal
Michael Riley stars alongside Robbie Coltrane in this quirky comedy about launching an opera-themed restaurant.
1988 - The Private Capital (Miniseries)
A look at turn of the century Ottawa and the various goings on, both political and private, of various characters.
1988 - Chasing Rainbows (Miniseries)
Set in post-World War I Montreal, this 14-hour period piece follows the intertwined lives of two veterans, Michael Riley’s Christopher Blaine and Paul Gross’ Jake Kincaid, as they struggle to adapt to civilian life during the dawn of the Jazz Age.
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1986 - Many Happy Returns (TV Movie)
A comedy starring George Segal. Michael Riley plays Rick, caught up in IRS-inspired antics.
1986 - Kay O'Brien : "Kayo on Call" - S1E1
Michael Riley makes a brief appearance as a medical student in the pilot for this short-lived CBS series set in a hospital.
1985 - Comedy Factory : "Fast Food" - S1E1
Michael Riley plays Gary opposite Keanu Reeves as “Crackers” in this comedy improv show.
1984 - The Littlest Hobo : "Small Change" - S6E14
Michael Riley’s first on-screen role: he portrays Vince, a would-be robber, in this classic Canadian series about a wandering dog.