Obituary of Michael Fred Sloan

August 13, 2025

Michael Fred Sloan, 78, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025. Born on October 14, 1946, in New York City, he was a prolific screenwriter, producer, and novelist. Beyond his accomplished career, Michael will foremost be remembered as a devoted husband and proud father.

Michael was born into a show business family and moved to London at an early age, where he began his lifelong pursuit of storytelling. While in England, he wrote and produced feature films and penned an acclaimed episode of Columbo—the only one ever assigned to a freelance writer.

Returning to the U.S. in 1974, Michael built a celebrated television career, writing and producing for shows including McCloud, The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries, Battlestar Galactica, Kung Fu: The Legend Continues, and Quincy, for which he received an Emmy nomination. He also wrote 1983’s The Return of the Man From U.N.C.L.E. and numerous episodes of The New Alfred Hitchcock Presents, where he met his future wife, actress Melissa Anderson. Michael’s theater work included the thriller Underground, which ran in Toronto and London's West End.

Of his numerous accomplishments, he is perhaps best known as the co-creator of The Equalizer television series starring Edward Woodward, and producer of the ensuing Denzel Washington-led film franchise.

Michael married Melissa in 1990 and together they raised two children, Piper and Griffin. In his free time, Michael enjoyed sharing dinners with family and friends, walking his dogs along the beach, and getting lost in a good adventure novel or classic Western. A devoted Broadway fan, he took every opportunity to see a show, always appreciating the energy and storytelling of live theater. His favorite musical was Wicked.

Michael was larger-than-life, known for his charm, creativity, and dedication. Always quick with a joke, his sense of humor lit up every room he entered. Through his ideas, generosity, and talent, Michael left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Melissa; his children, Piper and Griffin; and his sister, Judy. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the ASPCA in honor of Michael’s deep love for animals.