|
2GE+HER
Throughout Michael's life, he attained many of
his goals and dreams. One of them came through
his role on 2gether.
2gether was a comical show about a five piece
boy band parody, spoofing bands such as Backstreet
Boys and 'N Sync. Michael played "the cutie"
role of Jason "QT" McKnight, a young
talented singer suffering from a disease. Also
included in the band were Evan Farmer playing
"the heart throb" role of Jerry O'Keefe,
Noah Bastian playing "the shy one" role
of Chad Linus, Kevin Farley playing "the
older brother" role of Doug Linus and Alex
Solowitz playing "the rebel" role of
Mickey Parke.
2gether started out as MTV's first ever made-for-TV
movie, the film and soundtrack premiered February
21, 2000. The movie was headed by video director
Nigel Dick, also known for his videos with artists
like Britney Spears and Guns 'N Roses. The bands
songwriters and producers were also top-notch
known for their work with the Backstreet Boys,
'N Sync, Natalie Cole and Mandy Moore. With the
talent of the five boys and their strong behind-the-scenes
crew, 2gether was an instant success. The soundtrack
for the movie produced hit songs "U + Me
= Us (Calculus)" and "Say It (Don't
Spray It).
Due to the success of the movie, a regular television
series was created and aired in August 2000. A
second album, entitled 2gether Again, was also
released. The single "The Hardest Part Of
Breaking Up (Is Getting Back Your Stuff)"
made Billboard's top 100 chart and the band even
opened for a number of Britney Spears concerts.
The massive popularity also lead to the production
of 2gether Dolls.
In November 2000, 2gether began filming their
2nd TV series. Michael was only able to shoot
the first three episodes. Due to his health conditions,
Michael had to have an oxygen mask on set in the
filming of the latter episodes. The 2gether series
was cancelled after Michael passed away.
 |
 |
click images
to enlarge |
Michael's dream of becoming an established recognized
actor was realized with 2gether. He adored his
many fans as much as they adored him. His fans
recognized him as an actor through 2gether as
well as a humanitarian through his Foundation.
They took interest in Michael's work against the
fight against cancer and it inspired many to join
the fight by organizing their own fundraisers
and sending in donations. The Cuccione residence
received hundreds of pieces of mail with many
thoughtful notes and gifts. Michael was truly
grateful to his fans and the fact that so many
were inspired by him was an honour in itself.
|