Michael J. Willett

Michael James Mansel Willett (born September 11, 1989) is an American actor. Willett is known most for his roles as Lionel in United States of Tara and Tanner in G.B.F.. He starred in the MTV show Faking It from 2014 until its cancellation in 2016.

Early life Willett grew up in Fresno, California, and attended Clovis West High School. From a young age he always wanted to perform, and has stated, "When I was younger I was more uncomfortable with that side of myself, being outgoing and talkative. I realized along the way that was how you get people to know you. I've grown to be a more open person."

When he was asked about playing gay characters in multiple roles, Willett responded, "I want to play all different kinds of people; gay or straight. For example, when you go in to play a serial killer, you don't question if it meets your physical or moral standards. You disregard that and play the character. I didn't question it [accepting the G.B.F role]. I want to play all different kinds of characters and hope to continue to do so."

Career Willett is also a singer, listing himself on his Twitter as a singer first and actor second. He has stated that after G.B.F he would like to start writing his own music. Willett's debut album is named Diapason, which he describes as the "full, rich, melodious outpouring of sound. That is exactly how I describe what I do."

Filmography

Film Year Title Role Notes 2013 G.B.F. Tanner Premiere: 2013 Tribeca Film Festival. Theatrical Release: January 14, 2014

Television Year Title Role Notes 2004 Joan of Arcadia Billy Episode(s): 1 2005 Without a Trace Aaron Episode(s): 1 (as Michael Willett) 2010 Cougar Town Glee Club Member #4 Episode: 1 2011 Blue Mountain State Joe Daniels Episode(s): 1 2010–2011 United States of Tara Lionel Trane Episode(s): 16 2014–2016 Faking It Shane Harvey Lead role 2019 Dolly Parton's Heartstrings Cole Evans Episode: "Two Doors Down"

Discography Year Title Album 2013 "In Love Alone" Diapason (Unreleased) 2013 "Burning Desire" Diapason (Unreleased) 2014 "Started Over" Regeneration: Phase II