Michael James Bell spent a decade acting in New York City, where he received much critical praise (including in the New York Times) as Apollo in David Johnston's adaptation of "Eumenides" at American Theater of Actors. Michael also played the unscrupulous Jeffrey in Blue Coyote Theater Group's acclaimed production (and subsequent sold-out revival) of Johnston's "Busted Jesus Comix".

Other favorite roles include Adolf in "The Creditors" (Red Room), Charlie the homicidal elf in Joshua James' "The Elf, the Bunny, and the Big Xmas Blowup" (All You Can Eat Theater Company); the abusive Yang Sun (and others) in the NYC premiere of Tony Kushner's adaptation of Brecht's "Good Person of Setzuan" (Wings Theater); and a pissy, nasty, saber-wielding waiter in "Night of Faith" (Theatre-Studio, Inc).

While in New York, Michael studied improv with Armando Diaz and frequently performed at the Magnet Theater. He studied acting with Caymichael Patten.

Michael now lives in Los Angeles. He studies improv at the Groundlings (currently on the waitlist for Writing Lab). You can see him on the Comedy Central series "Jon Benjamin Has a Van" airing June 22, and in the comedy short "First Time Therapy".