Glen Michael dead: Beloved STV legend dies as family pay tribute to Cartoon Cavalcade star

Children’s TV presenter and entertainer Glen Michael has been remembered as an “STV legend”, as the broadcaster announced his death at the age of 99.

The TV star was known to millions as the face and writer of Cartoon Cavalcade each Sunday on the network between 1966 and 1992. The legendary star died at his cottage in Ayrshire, where he had lived alone since the death of his wife, Beryl, ten years ago.

His child, Yonnie, 74, now a guide at King Charles' home, Dumfries House, said: "Dad died peacefully at home, and not in hospital, which is what he wanted. He had people beside him, and he just literally took a deep breath and passed away.

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"Dad had been determined to make it to 100, as he wanted his telegram from the King, but sadly it wasn’t to be. But he was still driving until six weeks before falling ill and had also filmed a video for the Veterans charity Erskine in his back garden, which he did in one take. He was a performer to the end."

Reflecting on the performer's passing, Bobby Hain, STV's Managing Director of Audience, expressed: "We are deeply saddened to hear that Glen Michael has passed away. Glen was a wonderful performer and personality, and we know that many viewers will have very fond memories of him.

"He was an STV legend, with Glen Michael's Cavalcade a particular favourite for children across Scotland during its 26-year run. Our thoughts are with his family at this time, and we send them our deepest condolences."

The Devon-born entertainer, initially named Cecil Buckland, found his stage name from his admiration for bandleader Glen Millar. Before becoming an RAF serviceman himself, Michael had started out entertaining British forces during the war with his wife, Beryl.

His career saw him performing alongside big names like Ricki Fulton and Jack Milroy and featuring in an array of STV's programmes and dramas.

When Scottish graphic novelist Mark Millar drafted him for a bit part in the 2010 movie Kick Ass, Hollywood beckoned, though his scene was eventually omitted from the final film. Despite this, attending the premiere made Michael feel like a genuine celebrity.

Throughout his extensive career in stage, radio, and TV, Michael collaborated with numerous big names in show business, including Jack Milroy, Rikki Fulton, Stanley Baxter, Jimmy Logan, Billy Connolly, Alan Cumming, Phil McCall, Duncan McCrae, Una McLean, Craig Ferguson and Johnnie Beattie.

He was also one of the original presenters on Radio Clyde in 1974. He is survived by his two adult children, former journalist Yonnie, 74, and award-winning film editor son Chris Buckland, 66, who has worked on high-profile shows including Outlander.

Funeral plans are yet to be decided. The family have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all the medical professionals for his care and his at-home carers, who they said "were simply amazing".

Tributes have since poured in on social media, with one person writing: "Sad times. Grew up watching Paladdin and the Cavalcade." "A big part of my childhood memories, RIP Glen," added a second.

Meanwhile, a third typed: "National Hero. Rest easy Glen." This was our weekly fix of cartoons long before cartoon network and various other channels. RIP Glen," said another.

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