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Many thanks Michael for a wonderful Prisoner convention weekend. The 601 members have sent us
some wonderful comments about your appearance.
Geoff Lake and Rob Beale on behalf of 601 (http://www.netreach.net/~sixofone/)
Dear Mike & Michael, Heartfelt thanks for a very happy weekend in your company.
Fond Memories,
Ce Ce
Mr. Billington, thanks for the interview and for posting it in your articles section on your website.
My freinds and I watched you & Ed Bishop fight the aliens on UFO here in the U.S. when we were young
lads in the 70s (and still do on DVD!).
Barry King - PHASE II www.geocities.com/skywalker77.geo
You are the sexiest most fantantistic actor ever shallow message but true you are fantastic
ed
Totally agree!
Martin
How did Michael Billington touch your life? Please share your discovery of this wonderful man on the
www.mikebillingtonfans.com message board.
All contributions most welcome!
Ce Ce (on behalf of the mikebillingtonfans.com team)
I luv Michael x
greg
Mike,
You were always a great guy, you’ll never be forgotten,
Regards and best wishes,
Andy
Just heard the awful news, may I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the family, friends and fans of
Michael Billington. To lose both you, and Ed Bishop within days of each other is an awful loss.
Godspeed.
Claire
May I just say how deeply saddened I am to hear of the death of Michael Billington. You were one of
my childhood heroes.
RIP.
Chris Drake
Please accept my most sincere condolences on the sad occasion of Michaels passing. Like the
earlier message said, he was one of my childhood heroes too. What a wonderful appearance he
made at Portmeirion earlier in the year - such a friendly gentleman.
AL Smudge SAMUJH
I am absolutely stunned by the news of Mikes passing! Did not know him personally, but in the few chats
we had on this and other sites he was quite a gentleman with a lively sense of humor. He will be
greatly missed, and my heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.
Lisa
So stunned by the news. Michael was a guest at two of our conventions (in London and Portmeirion).
The most down to earth guy I ever met.
Our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.
Geoff Lake on behalf of 601 (The Prisoner Appreciation Society)
Its very sad to hear this news. Michael was an excellent actor and well known as Daniel Fogarty in
Germany. His part in the Onedin Line and especially the pathetic love story between Daniel and
Elizabeth will be never forget.
Condolences to his family and...
Mathias (Webmaster of www.onedinlinie.de in the name of all German Onedin Line fans)
so sad to read the news mike is now a star in heaven like he was on this earth
debbie b
Farewell to my first heart-throb! Ill never forget what pleasure your performances gave me Mike and to
all Mikes friends and family my sympathy at your loss. I can only say I was so pleased to eventually
meet Mike at a convention a few years ago
Lynda
You have given me treasured memories I’m sorry we will never meet.
Rest in Peace Michael
Andy.
I am still stunned by the news of Mikes death.
God bless
Martin
I am sad not to have met you in person. I came so near.
Simon
Can anyone tell me what happened? I didn’t know that Mike was ill.
Sue
Great shock to see that Mike had passed away. Always thought the guy deserved more recognition.
Was very pleased he took the trouble to reply to a couple of emails I sent him.
My thoughts are with his family.
Howard
Have only just discovered the sad news about Michael yesterday. My heart felt love and prayers
go out to his family, friends and all the fans. Please keep this site going.
Christopher
Very sad to hear the news.
My condolences to his family.
Diana (Onedin Line fan)
If you would like to read Sylvia Anderson’s personal tribute to Mike Billington and Ed Bishop
please click here
Rest in peace my friend, a sad loss to all,
age
You was great as well as Ed Bishop!! Life is strange, Id like to think that another Shado section is
already operative in a different place but strong just like the one in Earth. Thats why Commander Straker
and Colonel Foster have to go together.......
Luigi from Italy
Mike, You were simply the best actor for years. You will be so sorely missed. Would have loved to have
met you.
Rest In Peace
Steve B
Good Bye my friend.
Paolo M.
I am very saddened to hear of the passing of Michael Billington, a tremendous actor who had real
prescence. He will be sadly missed, but will not be forgotten.
Rest in peace Michael.
Alan Spencer
What boy growing up in the late `60s didn’t want to be Paul Foster? Long may you live on the small screen,
Michael, and I urge fans to listen to his UFO DVD commentary to experience his real-life charm and wit!
Robin
Thank Mike for your friendship, help and all the good moments. As I told you once, you will live...forever.
We will meet again!
Andre from Quebec City
Im an italian fan of UFO; when i was child i was fall in love of Col.Foster and when i know Mike in Italy,
i was too much happy!! Thanks Mike for emotions that give me and God bless your family especially
Mike Junior
Agnese from Italy
When I played in mine band always is called me Paul Foster. Enough this in order to understand my
admiration for you.
Always Yours fan. RIP Michael
Paolo from Italy
UFO was as significant part of my life in the 1970s and Paul Foster my favourite character. I was
very saddened to hear of Michaels death - he obviously touched many lives and will be much missed.
Andrew
So very sad to hear of Mikes (and Eds passing away. He filled my childhood with colour and imagination
in that all time great UFO. Something that has been with me for thirty-five years and will remain with me
forever. Mike Jnr: grow tall and strong...
Matthew, Simon, Alistair and John.
So often in life, good friends rarely hear how much they have meant to others, thankfully through this
site we had a chance to let Mike know these things BEFORE, not after. Will miss him greatly.
Sincere condolonces to the family, friends and fans.
Lisa
Im deeply saddened by this news... Michael was a great man and actor and will be greatly missed.
Marie-France Vienne, Sir Roger Moore Official Website
Michael brought much happiness to me as a child as well as an adult. I have nothing but good
memories about his life.
Peter
U.F.O. has always been my favourite T.V. show. Michael Billington was part of my childhood. I went to
the Prisoner convention this year and missed him, now I wish I’d met him.
Best wishes to family and friends.
Dave, Lichfield.
Im very sad to hear about Michaels passing. He was a wonderful teacher and a wonderful man.
My strongest wishes for his family and friends.
Todd Fredericks
Dearest Mike, Im so sad about your passing away! You’ve been my first TV crush and UFO and Foster
were and will always be among my warmest memories. You and Comm. Straker are back together:
do a great job up there, as you always did on Earth. I regret I couldn’t meet you. My condolences to
your family and a special hug to young Mike!
With love
Rossella, Italy
Dear Family of Michael, I met Michael at some Bond event occassions and each time was a pleasure
as he was so friendly towards me and I think other fans. He was always very interested about me and
I could se he was also very proud of his son (as many of...
Anders Frejdh, Sweden www.jamesbond007.se
For many years I admired Mike as a fine actor. Meeting your hero can be disappointing, but the opposite
with Mike. And with such a wicked sense of humour!
I’ll miss you greatly Mike.
Andy Lovie
I think my message got cut off, what I meant to say was... Mike Jnr: Grow tall and strong, remember
your dad everyday because he was the best!
Matthew
For Mike, He was a hero of mine as a child and I followed his career over the years, he was a fine
actor and gave many people pleasure. I am shocked.
Janet (Chester)
For Mike, I am absolutely shocked. He will be sorely, sorely missed. I have been a fan for many years,
a part of my childhood.
Sincere sympathies to his family.
Janet (Chester)
If you follow this link http://www.bondstars.com/michaelbillington/merchandise.htmt you can buy
autographed merchandise of Michaels with the proceeds going to charity. The best way I could find to
remember him at this very sad time.
Matthew
With sorrow from two generations of Michaels fans.
The Fox family, North London
to Michael’s son, who he always spoke so glowingly of, and to his family.
Derek Eynon , Bromsgrove
I was a big UFO fan, and as a kid always hero worshipped Paul Foster a bit. Over the last year or two
was surprised to find I could mail him and he’d mail me back. He was a Highlander fan, like myself,
and a supporter of Adrian Paul being the next James Bond. He seemed such a nice man, very modest,
and seemed amazed (but pleased) so many people were interested in him. RIP, Michael, I feel like
I’ve lost a friend.
My sincerest condolences to Michael’s son...
Derek Eynon, Bromsgrove
So sad Michael has passed away. As a tribute to him i watched the episode of UFO that he first appeared
in. the title of the episode was Exposed. He will be sadly missed by me and other UFO fans.
Andrew Beet
To Mike’s family my sincerest condolences, my thoughts and prayers are with you. To lose Mike and Ed
has really devastated me. I am so sad to lose my two childhood heroes so close together.
Above all thank you Mike and Ed for so very many hours of pleasure
Mark Harper, Doncaster, UK. Lifelong UFO fan
What a beautiful and talented man. My first TV crush as a child, from UFO days.
Condolences.
DG
It was a great joy interviewing Mike for The Pen & Quill magazine and I enjoyed so many emails with Mike
over the last two years. He will be missed by his fans and friends everywhere...
I hope he gets Ingrid Bergman’s autograph for me while he’s up there...
David Priol
Recently rediscovered Michael in UFO. Cannot believe the news,
sincere condolences to the family.
Fenella
Michael was a charming person to meet, and full of lots of good humour.
He will be very sadly missed.
Stephen Griffiths, Staffordshire University.
I am sorry to hear the sad news of Michaels passing. He is now in a better place. He was wonderful!
He’ll be greatly missed.
Gail Russell, US
Dearest Mike, Thank you for your kindness and encouragement.
For sharing your humour, talent, thoughts and memories.....
You will always be the most beautiful man in the universe in every way.
I will miss you so much.
Till we meet again, Ce Ce
Hello, I was very sorry to hear about the death of an unsung hero. Through his work Michael gave
people many happy memories, from one of his most noted works U.F.O which I fondly remember he
gave a great performance from this now cult TV show. I am...
Gary Mack
I had been watching the episode exposed from ufo and just after i finished I found out about this sad
news
my sincere condolences to mikes family and friends
kevin cox
So sad to hear that Michael have passed away. I meet him in Glasgow November 2004 and had a long
chat with him. What a nice and kind man. He could have been 007 for sure. He also took a picture of me
with my wife together with Maud Adams with our camera.
Torbjorn Pettersson, Sweden
I am very sad to have learned the bad news. Michael Billington was a wonderful actor. I not only rember
James Bond but also the Onedin Line.
God bless!
Martin Bablick, Vienna
I´ve never met Michael, but I´ll remember him as a great actor. I light a candle in the darkness for Michael,
his family, friends and his fans.
Jette, Denmark (Cecilia, member on Sir Roger Moore Official Website)
I was a child when Mike played colonel Foster in UFO. He was my favorite character. Im very saddened
by the news.
My condolences to his family.
Mario
Our thoughts are with Micheals family at this time. Michael was a guest star of The Prisoner society,
SIX OF ONE, on March 11,12,13 2005. He was loved by everyone there.
Michael may you rest in peace.
Geoff Lake on behlaf of: SIX OF ONE, THE PRISONER Official Appreciation Society
I was saddened to hear of Mikes passing away. He will be missed by his fans.
Steve C - USA
I was shocked to hear of the sad news of the passing away of Michael, I didn’t realise he had been so ill,
I had the pleasure of meeting Michael at Autographica 2000,like many people I grew up with UFO and
I have memories of watching Michael when I was 10...
Martin Townley Essex
I am deeply shocked to hear of the passing of Michael and Ed Bishop. I loved UFO as a child, and it will
always be special to me, even more so now.
Michael and Ed were fantastic actors and will be sorely missed.
Steve S
Michael will be missed very much. Although best known for his wonderful work in UFO, he was a man of
great range and talent. He was an actor who was not always recogised for that range, but those who
have seen him in those vehicles will always remember...
Elizabeth Anne Carleton-White Conway NH, USA
I knew Michaels mum and dad and met him once. They were all lovely people and Im really sorry to hear
of his passing.
My thoughts go to his family.
Pam Harper, Cumbria (formerly of Isle of Man)
With so many fans , Mikes talent was obvious. He will be missed.
My thoughts go to his family at this time.
Dale M. Stockholm, Sweden
Michael will be sadly missed by his countless fans throughout the world.
I would like to send my deepest sympathy to his family and friends at this sad time.
Katie Lambert
Mike junior. There is much love for you. I see you foto on ISOSHADO. You are good looking boy like papa.
Let all know who you live with now and where. We care much.
Oksana
Although I never met Michael myself, or even saw him in person, I felt like I knew a bit of him through his
work. I came to love him in UFO, and happily followed his career after that. I always hoped one day
Id get to meet him and let him know how much...
Emma Abraham (Chicago, IL)
Hello, Mr. Billington was a good man and a great actor. His abilities were never more clear than in the
UFO episode Ordeal and Kill Straker.
He will be missed.
Adrian Kleinbergen
I will treasure all the memories I have of meeting you and being a special friend, you will never be
forgotten...
All my love always, Carie
I wish to send my deepest condolances to you, Mrs Billington and your family. Especially on UFO,
Mike portrayed my favorite character, Col. Paul Foster. Tho I never met him personally, I was a pen-pal
for a short time, and he was, in my opinion a great guy...
C-J Jim Medd
One of my favourite actors of all time. I can’t believe both you and Ed are gone. Rest in Peace
A 21gun salute to Col. Paul Foster.
Lyn Chambers
I am so sorry to hear of both Michaels passing and Ed Bishops death as well. Both were absolutely
wonderful people. As I said in my message for Michael Billington, Ed too is in a better place.
Im glad they are together again.....forever.
Gail Russell, USA
Be it as Col. Paul Foster in U.F.O. or in one of the many other great appearences he had during his career,
the best you can say about Michael Billington is - he would have made a wonderful James Bond/007!
I owe you a lot!
Clauss Vanderborg, Germany
Very sad to hear the news
Richard Yelland
I was deeply saddened to read today of Michaels passing away. As an actor, I felt very much inspired by
Michael when he spoke about his career at a Sci-Fi convention in Leicester in 2001. He made me realise
it was time for me to get serious about being an...
Neil May
I am very saddened to hear of mikes death, I met him last Oct at the Richard Kiel afternoon at Pinewood
and found him a lovely guy.
He will be greatly missed.
John Cope
I contacted Michael two years ago to ask him for an interview about James Bond for the French Club 007.
He was very modest and thought it was not interesting for anybody ro read that. I had to convince him.
He accepted and wrote a very cool article (that...
Philippe Lombard (France)
From the state of New Jersey in the United Sates: I was so fond of the UFO series as a child and
rediscovered him through the DVD release. To see the passing of Michael Billington is saddening.
His integrity as an actor and human being will be sorely miss
Humbert Fernandez
Michael last time we meet was a nice dinner in Italy eating gnocchi al pesto with Gito and other friends.
I cant believe it was the last time I saw you. Mike Jr, as always, was with you. I know you will continue to
stay side by side to him especial...
Angelo
Thanks for sharing your talent with us. Rest in peace, Mike.
Alec Frerichs
Fans in Australia are saddened to hear of the passing of Michael Billington. In a double tragedy, Michael
has left us the same week as Ed Bishop, who played his commander in UFO. May their families accept
sincere condolences from overseas fans whose lives...
Geoff Allshorn (Melbourne, Australia)
Rest in Peace Mike.
Harry Dieterich
Ive lost a part of my childhood days.
Thanks for everythings.
Dan
I never met you Michael but through UFO you have been a part of my life for over 30 years. My thoughts and
condolences to your family as I sit here with my 3 year old watching UFO ensuring your memory will live
on for generations to come.
Richard K
Well, I think Ill go and watch Michael singing in the sauna, or chatting up a girl on the moon!
Martin Almond
A very sad loss: one always feels the sadness at the loss of a childhood hero and role model. Michael
will be remembered fondly by fans of UFO and The Onedin Line. I dont feel his true ability was ever fully
recognised (he should have played Bond...) Wel...
Martin Almond
Its hard to explain how one show can effect someones young life,but that is what UFO did. Michael
Billington was part of my world. It was with great sadness that I heard of his passing.
My sympathies and respect go out to his family and friends.
Mark Davies Hereford UK
Thank you Michael for the good memories of Col. Foster kicking alien butt.
Edwin Hite
I am saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Billington. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.
I grew up watching Mr. Billington on UFO, and was very much a life-long fan of his work on this program.
Kevin Bennett 15391 Russell Avenue White Rock, B.C. Canada V4B 2R2 kevben@telus.net
shoked, he will live forever in my heart
Robert Grenfell
Farewell Michael. Thank you and Ed to lead me in science fiction world since I was a little child. One of the
greatest happenings in my life was to meet you and Ed in Fiuggi, here in Italy, for Deep Space One
convention. Ill never ever forget you.
Fly
Rossana
Michael and Ed Bishop were great people and very good actors. Their performances are now for the ages
and so too are their memories for family, friends and fans. Mission Accomplished, guys;
Godspeed.
MATTHEW PAVLETICH.
Great actor, Great man. My thoughts are with you and your family. Que tu alma descanse en paz.
Amen
Jose Miguel. Caracas-Venezuela Fan Ufo Serie 18/05/2005 - 10.20pm
To the Man who was almost Bond he shall be missed.
David Perry Bakersfield,CA USA
Very sad to here of Michaels passing. Like many youngsters at the time, UFO inspired me to pursue both
science fact and science fiction as hobbies which I do to this day.
Our condolences to those close to him that he left behind.
Nick and Bryar Deakin and Family. West Mids. U.K.
Mike, you will be sadly missed, Im proud to have met you in Leicester 2001, you are a great guy and
fantastic in U.F.O.
You will never be forgotten.
John, Leicester. UK
My condolences to Mikes family. I will always have fond memories of him as Colonel Foster in UFO, and
later in The Onedin Line. A man of spirit and a class actor. I have never been able to relax in a sauna since
THAT episode and never will.
Thanks Mike...
Lynne Collinson Southsea Hants
Mike and Ed, I was hoping to get to meet you both very soon; you were a massive part of my early life.
Yet sadly we no longer have the opportunity.
Rest peacefully both of you, and thanks for the super memories.
Geoff Saul UK
Dear Michael, dear Ed, you just were signed in the book of the Myth, and for many people this book will
never pass away
Davide Dana
Even though I am only 10 years old UFO is one of my favourite ever shows. I was really looking forward to
meeting Michael and Ed at the Thunderbirds Convention and I will miss not seeing them.
Thank you for all the great shows.
Michael and Ed - RIP.
Elliot Pavelin
It’s a sad day for UFO fans, to lose Mike AND Ed in just the span of a few days. The Anderson shows have
always been my favorites, UFO in particular. They will BOTH be missed a great deal.
Maybe Mike will FINALLY be able to nab the Bond role in Heaven. :-)
Brinke Guthrie SF CA USA
You will be sadly missed.
Dave Radley
shocked, he will live forever in my heart
Robert Grenfell
My prayers go out to the family. The best part of my childhood was watching his work on TV. I have the
dvds now and share them with my family and the work will continue.
God Bless
Brendan Kearns in Cary, North Carolina
Michael was my first heart throb when I was young. RIP
Valerie
Mike we will miss you........
Moreno Tambellini
IT WAS A GREAT PLEASURE TO MEET MR MICHAEL BILLINGTON AT MEMORABELIA IN GLASGOW
NOV 2004. I had a great conversation with him and a treasured signed photo. Great memories with U.F.O.
Robert Campbell.
I had now idea, till now that Mike had sadly passed away or was even ill. The reason? I buried myself 24/7
in pursuing a lifelong ambition earning my own living.. something I NEVER had the guts to try - till Mike
so kindly responded personally to a random
di xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Dear family. I meet Michael in Pinewood studios in 21 november and invite him to 007 museum in
Sweden and Nybro this summer. He was a warm and nice person and i will allways remember him.
My very best to his family.
President 007 Museum Gunnar Schäfer
Rest in peace Michael.
Gary Wales
Michael was a big part of my childhood and as I watched him playing Paul Foster in UFO, I always hoped
Id be like him one day. A tough good looking hero who always saved the day.
Thanks for being you...
Joe Nagle
Every Body that new michael is very sad about what has happen michael is fighting it and is manerging
ok with his wonderful godmother that is now looking after him i hope it all goes well for him
Sonny Honour
UFO was part of my growing up process in the 70s. Michaels,Paul Foster, was my favourite character
in the show. Sadly missed.
RIP.
Pat Lee.From Bootle.
Very saddened to hear of Michael’s death. I met him last year at the NEC in Birmingham, and thought he
was a warm and terrific guy. His memories live on in his various performances as an actor. For me in
particular his role as Foster in UFO was outstanding.
John C West Midlands
Sono veramente addolorato per la scomparsa di Michael, Im fan of UFO, i pray for him
M. Pansa
Im a big UFO fan and greatly enjoyed Michaels work on that show. This is a sad time....
LC
I am so saddened and shocked to read here about Michaels passing away. I searched the internet for
details of the Onedin Line actors following todays repeat (21/06/05) on UK TV Drama. Loved him in UFO
as Paul.
Alan Marlow - Northampton UK
I have just read that Michael Billington has died, it is very sad, he was a good actor, and will be sadly
missed by all.
Ann from Ken
One of my childhood heroes, so sad I never met him in person.
Barry, Birmingham.
Dear Michael, rest in peace. I will keep in touch with you every time I will watch an Ufo episode again.
Roberto Gorla - Italy
I was deeply saddened to learn of Michaels passing. His gift as an actor will be greatly missed.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Kevin S. Doughty Griffith, Indiana United States of America
Sorry to see him passing he was a good actor, UFO was a part of my formative years and it seems like
this link has gone now.
He died much too young, best wishes.
Robert Francis
I had the pleasure of meeting Mike at Eclectic 21 con, Leicester, 2001. He was a warm and thoughtful
guy and did so much to make that event a success. From all at E21, we are deeply saddened at Mikes
premature passing.
John Wadsworth-Ladkin and all the crew of Eclectic 21
If only you knew how many people appreciated you, I have felt very Sad over the last 2 Weeks,
God Bless you Mike X
Paul Williams, Market Drayton, England.
Now Michael and Edward go together in sky. I never, never can forget beautiful moment when i see
michael in television.....
i pray for this great actor and for Ed Bishop too
Max
I just wanted to pass on my heartfelt condolences to Mike’s family at this very sad time. I count myself
lucky to have spent several enjoyable evenings in the company of Michael and I will treasure the memory
of our many drinks together.
He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
Andrew Mark Sewell
Thanks a lot Mik!
Maurizio
I met Michael just once and by chance in London. He was friendly and completely charming and I will
cherish this memory forever. He leaves a legacy of splendid film and television performances -
notably UFO which I first saw when I was nine. 34 years have...
Rosalyn Connors (Essex, UK)
Another fine actor of an era long gone (UFO) has returned to his maker.
My condolences to his family and friends.
Marco J. Meyer/Switzerland
Michael portrayed one of my earliest TV heroes and am saddened by his death. Our thoughts go to family
and friends
Shadokp (Ken Parker)
A fine actor, a brilliant teacher and a great man. Meeting You was an honour.The moments we shared
will be treasured in our hearts for ever.
Silvia, Gemma and all the students on the Ramsgate drama course
I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to Mr Billington’s family at the tragic news of his death.
He was and will continue to be remembered as a tremendous acting talent with enormous charisma and
presence whose vast contribution to entertainment...
Phil Hurst
Very sad to here of Mikes passing as I was a big fan of UFO as a kid and recently saw him in an episode
of the Professionals.
Best wishes to his family
Paul Haywood Burton on Trent
I ADMIRE YOU WHEN I WAS A CHILD, THANK YOU FOR ALL THE GREAT EMOTIONS COL. FOSTER
GAVE TO ME.
REQUIESCAT IN PACE.
MARCO FROM TORINO ITALY.
I HAVE BEEN A GREAT FAN OF UFO SINCE I WAS A TEENAGER WHAT A GREAT SERIES, MICHAEL
WAS SUPERB IN IT I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIM FOR THAT
HE WILL BE SADLY MISSED
MARK.D.W.SMITH
I loved watching Mike on UFO and he was such a strong actor with an awesome presence. The adoration
and fond memory of the series lives on and so will your spirit - that was such an integral part of that
great series.
Scott Tuffnell Australia
A part of me died today when I found out that Michael and Ed had passed away. I am so sorry. Beautiful
dreamer, wake unto me.
Starlight and dewdrops are waiting for thee
David Whiteman New Zealand
You did a fine job of playing Bond’s enemy in The Spy Who Loved Me. You will always be remembered
in the Bond fan world and in a personal place in my heart.
Rest in Peace!
Brandon R. Brown Fr: Upstate New York
I REALLY DONT KNOW WHAT TO SAY IM 41 AND JUST RECENTLY BOUGHT ALL THE DVD VOLUMES
OF UFO MIKE WAS I CHILDHOOD HERO OF MINE IT FEELS LIKE I HAVE LOST A FRIEND ALTHOUGH
WE NEVER MET.
MY HEART AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO MIKE’S FAMILY.
Damian Cunningham
ERI SEMPLICEMENTE UN GRANDE. ESISTERAI SEMPRE NEI MIEI RICORDI PER TUTTE LE EMOZIONI
CHE MI HAI REGALATO DA BAMBINO INTERPRETANDO IL COL. FOSTER NELLA SERIE U.F.O.
RIPOSA IN PACE MICHAEL.
MICHELE 1966 FROM NORTH ITALY
Just a wonderful actor and brought a lot pleasure to many people.
Will be sadly missed but not forgotten.
John A McCrindle, Aberdeen
30 years ago as a young teenager I saw my first play: Sleuth. I met Michael backstage afterwards; kind
and generous with his time, he made my initiation to theatre incredibly exciting and special. After I became
an actor some years later, in part due to...
Sara
fantastic actor loved the part he played as col foster in ufo
terry wood
michael will be sadly missed, he was a great guest at 6of1 (prisoner) conventions.
Mark-Kenilworth.
I would just like to say how sad and upset I was to hear yesterday of the passing of Michael Billington.
I was not able to meet him at a convention appearance last year and wanted to tell him what a marvellous
job he did on the UFO series. With Ed Bishops...
Scott Weller-United Kingdom
I have fond memories of UFO from my childhood and sad from learning that both heroes from the show
had passed away.
Rest in peace Mike and Ed.
Adrián de la Vega Buenos Aires
Michael, agradezco toda la ilusión y la emoción que nos entregaste en cada una de tus actuaciones,
have a nice life in your new trip...,
rest in peace and thanks for all..
Esteban Iturra, Santiago, Chile
A Brilliant action man type hero in UFO. I watched the DVDS many times over.
A fine actor.
Ken Pitcher Dover Kent England UK
Although my first viewing of the UFO series was only a couple of years ago due to working on a project,
it was clear Michael was a great actor,
I wish his friends and family the very best.
Mike
sadly missed
michael withers
Very sorry to hear the news about Michael. Particularly enjoyed his performance as Daniel Fogerty in the
Onedin Line.
RIP
John Luxton
So sorry only just heard. Gone BUT never forgotten!
Dave Allen
Thanks for all your good work on UFO Mike. I have very fond memories from my childhood on UFO.
Dave and Naomi Walters Rushden, HHants.
INTERCEPTOR, IMMEDIATE LAUNCH! THANK YOU MIKE, THANK YOU ED FOR OUR CHILDREN
DREAMS - IN OUR THOUGHTS THERE WILL BE COL. FOSTER AND CMR. STRAKER FOREVER!
MARCO E PAOLA ALESSANDRIA - ITALY
Mike and Ed will be missed by all his fans
Joe Beedell Southend
Grazie per aver contribuito a rendere unica la serie televisiva U.F.O.
Flavio Corà
i always remember him for the spy who loved me, it’s my favorate roger moore bond, and the ski scene
with him in at the start was amazing,
sadly missed...
paul c
A great actor, Ill never forget him. A sad loss for all UFO fans.
My condolences to the family
Tiziana, Italy
I knew Michael in the 70s when filming UFO and he made me laugh so much, I still talk about those days
and am so sad to hear of his passing. He was a lovely, talented, warm man and
my heart goes out to his family and friends at this sad time.
Fiona Wilson, Watford. Herts.
Very sad to see both Mike and Ed pass away. I watched UFO as a small child and was fascinated by the
series and the actors.
You stirred my imagination.
Mike Davies, Northants, UK
I am so very sad to learn of Michael’s death. I was his agent for many years and without doubt he was my
favourite client mainly because of his sense of humour - I still laugh when I remember some of his witty
remarks about people in the entertainment ind...
Michael Summerton
Ci mancherai
Pietro Rossi
ufo was a classic show that mike and ed made their own , i saw it in my childhood and still enjoy it to this
day, little did we know then that when you played out your parts in the heavens, you would both return
there so close together,
rest in peace mike
robert h ,northants , england
I watched the series as a boy and only very recently purchased the DVD collection here is Los Angeles.
I truly loved the show then and still do. I am both shocked and saddened at the loss of Michael Billington.
He will be missed by all of us.
Michael Alquist Loa Angeles, CA
I recently was thinking of re-visiting my childhood memories and borrowed the UFO TV Series which I
watched as a kid, I enjoyed the series 35 years on and instantly remembered Michael and wanted to
know what the stars of the series was doing now, I was sh...
James Lowe
A childhood hero of mine. I still think Michaels performances in UFO hold up well to this day.
He will be sadly missed.
John
I adored UFO as a young boy, and I love the series even more now (I am 40 this year).
My deepest condolences to Michaels family.
Kenneth Tan - Singapore
Truly sorry to hear this sad news about Michael. Loved him in UFO and The Onedin Line in particular, but
always a joy to watch his performances.
He will be sorely missed.
Sue, Oxford, also a Capricorn
I cant believe it , i just met michale in october there , the news was a shocking suprise it was nice to listen
to his stories just before this shocking news
Gregor Gillespie
I was greatly saddened in hearing about the loss of Michael.
RIP to a great man...
Adam
Just heard the very,very sad news..absolutely devastated! UFO....UNTOUCHABLE!!!
Ian Martin-Shepherd. London,England.
My condolences to Michaels Family, I very much appreciated his work, especially as a boy watching UFO.
Thank You for your work Michael, you will be missed.
Roy Bjellquist, New Jersey, USA
I first saw UFO when I was 7 or 8. I loved it and was thrilled to get the DVD set. My wife laughs at me
cause Im a little kid again watching the shows. I was sad to hear of your loss,
my condolences to the family.
Rocco, Pa. USA
A talented and underrated British actor,
the world is less without you.
Mark J. Saxton
Have a safe and glorious journey Mike Billington. You have provided us with many moments we will never
forget.
Rest in Peace and among the stars.
Fredrick R. Walters
I’ll miss you very much Michael.
You were someone special.
Giuliana
This is terrible news. My sincere condolences to the family of Michael. COming so soon after Ed Bishops
death it is a double blow to all of us UFO fans who loved their work and on-screen partnership.
Marcus Eden-Ellis - Bradford
You were my childhood hero and a fantastic actor. I will remember you always and you will never be gone
in my mind.
Matt Lyons
people say, whats in a name? but i think they might be wrong about this one.
Michael Billington
I was deeply saddened to hear of Michaels passing- he was a very fine actor and having been fortunate to
meet him last year, he was a charming and friendly man. He will be fondly remembered by many.
Bless you Michael.
Alan Spencer.
We at BONDLIST echo the sentiments of Michael Billington’s many fans. Mr. Billington (Sergei in TSWLM)
screen tested famously for Bond. He was an always cheerful gentleman who was eager to work with and
meet his fans. I always enjoyed our chats on the...
Matt Sherman, thank you!
I was very sorry to hear of Michaels death. I always admired Michaels work on UFO which I have never
forgotten from my childhood. I bought the dvd collection of the series last year and it brought back many
memories of my childhood. I would like to offer...
Jonathan Denne
I was very sorry to hear of Michaels passing. I am a big fan of UFO and feel he made a great contibution to
the sucess of the program. Unfortunetly I have not been able to see his other work here in the U.S.
His characterization of Paul Foster was first...
Phil Rose
We have been praying on Michael s grave. It is nice to know such a lovely spot has been selected for him
to rest. May Michael rest in peace. Well pay him a visit whenever we can.
Silvia, Giuseppina and all the students on the Ramsgate drama course
Ti sono vicino in questo triste momento.
DAGNA ALESSANDRO ITALY
Thank you for being great to your fans. You replied to my messages as if we were friends.
Rest in peace Michael and my respects to your family.
John Adanosky
Ciao Michael, continuerò a sognarti come facevo da ragazzo. Sei stato il mio idolo e non ti dimenticherò
MAI!
Davide Amadi (ITALIA - Venezia)
It is with great sadness that I have learned of Micheal Billington’s death. I truly think the acting world will
have one less star to twinkle. His Performance as Daniel Fogarty will be fondly remembered in The
Onedin Line His Death Has left me with gr...
Anna , Montreal Canada
Michael’s came to my attention as an actor through Gerry Anderson’s UFO and spotted for his small role
in TSWLM. I was unaware of his passing until now.
Please accept my condolences to his family & friends.
Steve Hadlow @ 007 Bond Supplement http://www.bondsupp.freeserve.co.uk
Michael Billington was the Bond that never was, being the most tested actor for the 007 role from 1968 to
1982. Although, he appeared as Sergei Barsov in The Spy Who Loved Me. An accomplished actor of the
traditional English type, he will be sadly missed
Mr X
Per i tutti momenti belli che mi hai fatto passare da giovane un grande saluto.
Marcello Gilardenghi - Alessandria - ITALY
Rest in Peace Michael, You will live on in our hearts and thank you for all your great work that is captured
forever.
paul
You were my first TV hero. When we played UFO in the playground I always wanted to be Colonel Foster.
RIP Michael.
Mike, Coventry.
I was so sad to hear of Michaels passing. As a teenager I had a crush on him in the series u.f.o. I love
the Onedin Line and I am watching re runs of it. In my eyes he will always be the handsome man I had
a crush on.
Deepest sympathy to his family and friends
Angie O’Donnell Liverpool
You gave a sense of wonder to a child many years ago.
Goodbye and thank you Michael.
Graham. New Zealand.
Most saddened & shocked to hear of Michaels untimely death. He gave much pleasure with his portrayal
of Foster to very many people.
He will be missed very much.
Ian M Faulkner.
What a wonderful actor. I am enjoying seeing him in the repeats of The Onedin Line at the moment.
Sadly missed.
Pat
For Michaels family and friends.... reading these moving entries I can see how much he was admired as
an actor and loved as a person. He must have been a truly wonderful man.
I wish I had met him.
Sara Searcotte-Shayne.X
I always felt Michael never really got the credit that he deserved as an actor, I don’t think people realised
what a good actor he was! And also my first heartthrob!!
god bless Michael rest in peace there will always be a place in my heart for YOU!
Sue xxxx
I never met you micheal, and I’m very sad about this fact as your work has given me many hours of
enjoyment.
rest in peace and thank you.
Alan Bailey
I love you, Michael. I’ve loved you since I was 10 years old. My heart is broken to learn of your death.
I pray you’re with God. Love you always.
Dawn K. Moore Sand Springs, Oklahoma
Michael has always been a hero of mine. I was 10 years old at the time of UFO and to this day remains
my all time favourite programme.
God bless you sir.
Stuart. England.
A great loss to all UFO fans, his contribution to the shows success was undeniable.
He will be missed
Nick R
A fantastic actor who will be very much missed. Michael brought the character of Foster to life in a most
amazing way.
Condolences to his family.
Darren.
I am shocked to read about Mikes passing. I will never forget how happy you made a ten year old girl,
who received a signed photograph of the man she adored. Im now 42 and still treasure that photo.
Thanks Mike and my condolances to Mikes family.
He will...
Nicole, Belgium
I was really shocked to hear that michael billington had passed away and to hear that ed bishop had as
well and only a few days apart, was a big shock, they will be sadly missed as they were brilliant actors
and i was a real fan of theirs in the gerry anderson...
Charmane Stuart
I was madly in love with him when I was 12.He was gorgeous. I never forgot him
Diane Australia
extremely sad to hear of Michaels passing, i had the pleasure of meeting him a couple of times, on the
second time i joined both him and francis matthews for a chinese meal in clacton on sea, on the evening
before a sci-fi convention, michael was so polite...
Gavin vaclavik
I am really shocked and deeply saddened by the death of michael billington. U.F.O. was my favourite
show as a kid and i have the complete set on DVD. Watching them again from time to time as i do
wont be the same knowing Colonel Paul Foster is no longer wi...
Dave Sullivan.London.
Were Utterly gutted! We grew up with U.F.O. and the Onedin Line now cant watch them without shedding
a tear Look after him up there
Hes a goodun
Simon Rhodes & Louise Paling, Nottingham U.K.
Just seen the sad news. Michael will be missed. He is now a star in the heaven just like on earth.
Annie
I am speechless ... he was my idol in UFO and I was proud that we had the same name ... now he and
Ed have both gone and we will all miss them.
Thanks for what you have done in your career.
Paolo D.B. - Milano, Italy
God bless to a wonderful great actor he will be truly missed by me and thousands more around the world.
Dave Johnston Auckland New Zealand
When I heard the news I was shocked and very sorry. I could not believe that both Mike, colonel
Paul Foster, and commander Ed Straker had gone. UFO has been a milestone in my childhood.
Sincere condolences
Giovanna, Italy
My sincere condolences to Mikes family, particularly his son. My story echos that of many fans - I was a
young girl enthralled with UFO and Mike was my first big crush.
Thank you for the memories - good night.
Diane, Canada
I have just been watching UFO again after so many years. RIP Michael, the acting was superb and you
were a big part of it.
Mike Bara, Los Angeles, CA
I have only just heard of this! I am in shock! Michael will always have a place in my heart as he provided
me with one of my all time favourite TV characters - Paul Foster from UFO. I truly am sorry to hear of his
passing, I simply cant believe it!! He w...
Simon Fritsche
A great loss - My condolences to Michael family - a much underrated actor - who will be greatly missed.
Andrew Colgan
Bought and really enjoyed watching UFO DVDS recently. Looked up Michael Billington on web only to find
he had died a month ago. So very sad as he was such a fine actor. :0( Its comforting to know however,
we can still see some of his greatness through his...
Peter Bennett
My sincerest condolences to Michaels family. Today, via the net I found out about the loss of both Michael
and Ed. From my childhood to now I have enjoyed both the actors and that great show.
Thanks for the memories and rest in peace Michael.
Ian Broughton Derby (UK)
I thought you were such a great actor and the most handsome of men. I just wish you had become
James Bond or Superman.
Tim Kelly
My deepest condolences to Michaels family. I have adored him from the first time I watched UFO and am
very sorry to hear of his death. He will live on in many peoples memories.
God bless.
Christine, Norfolk, England
I found this man to always be a joy to watch, no matter what his character would be. I first saw him as
Paul Foster on UFO and have loved him since. More than 30 years.
I will miss him.
Thea
My deepest condolences to Michaels family. I have been a fan of UFO all my life, and to learn of Michael
and Eds passing is extremely sad. When I first heard the news (through the Fanderson website) I was
stunned, and was in a state of shock for hours
Chris Honey. Manchester, England.
You were my hero back in the seventies, starring in UFO. I recently bought all the UFO DVDs which
brought back fond memories. When I read that you had passed away I was deeply saddened and so
was my wife.
God bless.
Nick Sargent
UFO was one of my favorite shows as a kid growing up. Michael was great in that show!
He will be missed. He was too young...
Robin, New Haven, CT USA
My condolences to the family. I enjoyed Mike Billingtons performances as Col. Foster on the DVDs TV
series UFO - he will live forever there.
R. Jang Vancouver,B.C. Canada
one of my heros from my youth died ... my condolences to the family. for those to whom he gave joy and
many hours of best entertainment he will never been forgotten and I’m only one out of many.
in our hearts you will live forever, Michael !
andreas foerster, austria
I was sad to hear of your passing. You were one of my TV heroes. Only skilled actors can make the scripts
live for the fans ....
Carl
For Many happy UFO Childhood memories
Peter Rush
michael billington was a great person. My thoughts to his family and friends
garry hole
UFO was a great show and you were an integral part of its success, the fact that I watched the program
when I was ten years old and still love it today at age forty three! must prove it.
Mike - RIP.
Chris Reeve, Norfolk UK.
Shocked and very saddened as I only found out today that Michael had passed away. Words fail me at
this point in time and I will always remember Michael as a fine actor and the Bond that never was.
A very sad day for me, I will treasure my memories.
Gary Haigh (Magician)
A fantastic actor who would have made a great James Bond.
RIP
Michael D. Sims
When I was a young girl in the 70s i always loved ufo specially you in it and Straker. So sad that you
have gone my dream would have been to have met you, but sadly that will never be.
God bless you will always be remembered.
Dawn Calvert (a dedicated fan)
Your work will live on - you were the best and will be loved forever.
Heather
Michael, Thanks for all the memories you gave us.
God bless and rest you.
John Murphy,Westport,County Mayo,Ireland.
Mr. Billington was a hero we looked forward to watching as Paul Foster on UFO growing up here in the
states. Now with the DVDs we can enjoy him for years to come. He granted us an interview just last year
and it was a dream come true.
Godspeed Mr. Billington
Barry King - PHASE II www.geocities.com/skywalker77.geo Atlanta, GA USA
thanks michael for ufo, and the great escapism from reality.
derek
michael was my teacher at lee strasberg acting school, london for a while in the late eighties, and i am
saddened to hear of his death. he was larger than life, with that kind of burt reynolds brawn about him.
my fondest memory is of riding with him on the tube, and him talking just a little too loud about
spending a day with liza minelli and judy garland.
thanks michael,
simon x
I was a fan of UFO as a small child and now I have just bought the dvds and its magic once again to
see michael and the rest of the cast in this wonderful series, very sorry find after googleing that he
has passed away -
see you later Michael
Ivan Sestan
Michael wished me success in pursuing a career in video production, when I was lucky enough to
have met him at the N.E.C. last year. For this and the UFO series, Im very grateful to you.
R.I.P. Michael.
Pete Kowalyk
A tragic loss,Goodbye Mr.B!
The Devon Seaside Devils
After watching the Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me on DVD, I browsed the internet and came across
Michael Billington’s site and learned that he died only about two months ago.
My condolences to his family, friends and fans.
Edwin S., of Makati City, Philippines
Ciao Colonnello Foster, ci mancherai!
Alfonso Italy
Ero un bambino che guardava affascinato la serie UFO che ha lasciato unimpronta nella mia
adolescenza. Di Michael ricordo la spontaneità della sua recitazione e il fascino che emanava
la sua persona. Sicuramente con lui è andato via un pezzeto della mia v
Mori Fabio. Venturina
Michael you will be sadly missed.
Alistair Cox, London
Michael was a great actor and unfortunately most people only remember his TV work. His stage work
was always worth seeing especially his performance as Milo, with Robert Flemming, in Sleuth.
This was a fabulous performance, far superior to the film cast.
John
I was a teenager when I saw my first episode of UFO and very quickly fell in love with the dark haired,
incredibly handsome Col. Paul Foster. I fell in love with the character, with the series, and discovered
the world of British television. Today, for th...
Deb Townsend, Shakopee MN, USA
From Argentina, a country in the very south of the world, I write these lines to remember my childhood´s
hero and favourite actor. When I was a boy I always had in my dreams to know Michael personally.
As I grew old, reality got me far away of my dreams,
Carlos Capasso
I first became aware of Michael Billington in u.f.o and thought he was great. I was very keen to watch
out for other things he was in. I was very shocked and upset to learn of his passing. He was a fine
actor who came across as a very nice bloke.
Jon nelson culcheth warrington
To Michael... Wherever you are, thank you for those wonderful memories watching you as Colonel Foster
and dreaming of the stars...
Rozz - Malaysia
Thank you for giving me such a great childhood. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace my hero,
you will be remain in my thoughts for the rest of my life.
God be with you and your family.
Adrian
just got the sad news. michael thank you so much for the great memories from my childhood up till my
41st year still watching you.. and many more to come .cant believe I’m crying at my age but you where
a part of my youth
goodnight, god bless TO you and all
PAUL MILLINGTON (MILLY)
Dear Mike just wanted to let you know yesterday I passed my Access to HE and today 20 Sep 05 officially
became a full-time undergrad student at Preston University. The beginning of a life long dream!
Christopher
I was at school with Mike and have fond memories of him.
RIP mate.
John Jack Foreman
In the early seventies I was a fan of UFO and my hero was Col. Foster. He was fantastic; Michael will
live in the hearts of his many fans all over the world....
Hardy from Germany
He will forever live - he is imortalized in the onedin line + ufo.
Leon Will
In the early seventies a small boy was stuck in horrible boarding school. He was only allowed to a
TV for a short while at w/ends. UFO was THE escape from that prison! You and Ed liberated his mind.
For that the small boy, and me the adult long since grow...
James, Leeds
Very saddened to hear the news, you were a childhood hero of mine. I always wanted to be Paul Foster
when i was young, though i never grew up to me as handsome as you! A real good actor.
RIP
Paul
Im really disappointed to know Michael is dead. when I was young he was one of my heros and now
something of my past is dead. Really mike you were great in all the UFO episodes.
Rest in peace Mike you will ever and ever be with me any time Ill see my tap...
Paolo from Milan
Mike was one of my childhood heroes in UFO. I lived in Buckinghamshire at the time it was filmed,
so the drama seemed very local to me. I was a totally devoted and besotted fan. The series still
has a peculiarly warm and nostalgic feel, which I cant expla...
Max Pemberton.
This is a great shock at losing such an icon of my childhood. Michaels role of Col. Paul Foster in UFO
must have been mimicked in playgrounds the length and breadth of Britain during the early 1970s.
My playground memories would’ve been a lot duller without...
Andy C (Mansfield)
Youll be missed Mike. Ive enjoyed your work for years but Ill most fondly remember you for U.F.O.,
where you were the joint lead. During the time this series was on, every man in the country stopped
wanting to be James Bond and instead wanted to be Colon...
Richard Yardley
Good bye Col. Foster, Good bye Michael. Maybe that you will not remembered as a movie star, but
you will live forever for thousands of boys who dreamed to be as Col. Foster.
Amedeo Ceci (Italy)
My thoughts are with Michael’s family. I only knew Mike when we were in amateur theatre together &
have followed his career ever since. A sad loss for such a young person.
Pat (Tuck) Scears
you will be sadly missed
andrew newton
I became aware of Michel’s work through UFO which I loved as a child. I bought the two boxed sets on DVD
recently. I was greatly shocked when I heard of Michaels death. Sadly another part of my childhood gone.
R.I.P Michael
Jon Kirkman: Liverpool England
I had the pleasure to correspond with you many years ago, and remember your kindness and sense of
humour to a doting fan. Ill always remember you,
god bless.
Scott Egerton
I knew Mikes work of course but only knew him personally for a couple of all too short years. I was
deeply shocked to see his name in the Equity journal list and cannot quite take it in. Like many of us,
the business to which he dedicated himself treated...
Charlotte Kasner
good travel Foster!
Fernando Oviedo Mexico, city
Thanks Michael for all the good times you gave me.
Federico Bozzano (Italy)
When I was a boy I wanted to be like Paul Foster. This is the best thing I can say about Michael.
He´s not dead, he´s acting for God and will live eternally as his fans will remember him forever.
Thanks Mike!!!
Carlos Devizia - Paso del Rey - Argentina
Though we know that time has wings, were the ones who have to fly.
Thanks for everything, Michael.
Jonathan M
Un dolore profondo nella mia anima che mai ha voluto crescere, quello che mi hai trasmesso lo puoi
trovare ancora immutato, se le emozioni sono la vita, la vita tua ancora vive.
Cristiano Cristanini
addio Mike e grazie di avermi fatto passare alcune belle ore a guardarti come Col Paul Foster
flavia
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