The Tragic Story of Blue Peter Presenter Michael Sundin
A poignant tribute has been paid to former Blue Peter presenter Michael Sundin, whose life was tragically cut short at just 28 years old. The talented performer, who joined the beloved children's programme in 1984, passed away in 1989 following a brave health battle.
From Trampoline Champion to Television Star
Michael Sundin's journey to Blue Peter began with his remarkable talent as a trampolining champion at just 12 years old. This athletic ability would later prove instrumental in securing his position on the iconic BBC programme. Before joining Blue Peter, Sundin had already established himself as a performer, appearing in Andrew Lloyd Webber's acclaimed musical Cats and portraying Tik-Tok in Disney's Return to Oz.
His big break came when he caught the attention of Blue Peter producers during an interview with then-presenter Janet Ellis. This led to his appointment alongside Ellis and Simon Groom, taking over from celebrated presenter Peter Duncan. During his brief tenure, Sundin quickly gained recognition for his adventurous exploits, covering film sets and even visiting Elton John's residence.
Controversial Departure and Tragic Passing
Despite his natural screen presence, Sundin's time on Blue Peter lasted less than a year. His departure became mired in controversy when numerous sources suggested he was let go due to his sexuality, after being outed as gay by the media during his tenure. While then-editor Biddy Baxter attributed his exit to lack of viewer appeal, the circumstances surrounding his departure have remained a subject of speculation for decades.
After leaving Blue Peter, Sundin continued his acting career, appearing in the 1987 film Lionheart and performing in touring stage shows including Seven Brides For Seven Brothers and Starlight Express. He also made an appearance in Rick Astley's 1988 music video for She Wants To Dance With Me. Tragically, that same year Sundin became unwell and passed away at Newcastle General Hospital aged just 28.
Remembering a Talented Performer
This week, The Elstree Project paid tribute to Sundin's remarkable talents, particularly his work as Tik-Tok in Return to Oz. The organization highlighted the extraordinary physical challenges he faced, describing how he was folded double inside a small Kevlar suit, walking backwards throughout filming while relying on an upside-down monitor feed.
Walter Murch, the programme's oral history director, noted the lack of proper recognition following Sundin's death. "When Michael Sundin died in 1989 from an AIDS-related illness, aged just 28, there was only a small on-air acknowledgement of his passing on Blue Peter," Murch stated. "In an era marked by stigma and silence, much of his contribution was quietly erased."
Legacy and Reflection
Following Sundin's passing, Blue Peter presenter Yvette Fielding paid tribute alongside colleagues John Leslie and Caron Keating. Fielding expressed the shock felt by all who knew him, saying his death came as a great shock despite his illness.
Sundin, remembered by those close to him as a "blond, outgoing, gregarious ball of fun," left behind a complex legacy that reflects both his remarkable talents and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the media during that era. His story serves as a poignant reminder of how prejudice and stigma can overshadow genuine talent and contribution.
