Our prayers and heart are with all the Brevig Family… 

Ruiz Family 

I'm so sorry to hear this news. I met Michael back in 1986, working on the streets of New Orleans. We became pretty good friends, and stayed in touch for years. I don't know if I heard from him, though, since about 2010. He visited several times with me in NYC, and I did the same with him down in Florida. I remember his wife, Sally, and children Jenna and Michael Jr. My deep condolences to them.

He was a really sweet-hearted guy, always warm and friendly. I don't remember ever having a tense conversation with him. He was just consistently nice.

I never got to see him perform on a cruise ship, although he was an absolute king when he street performed. Atop that ladder for at least 15 minutes, he'd have huge crowds and his act was super solid. I saw him do shows in New Orleans, NYC, and Halifax, and he always killed. 

He gave me my first break on cruise ships, recommending me to his agent back in 1990. I appreciated that so much. I didn't get more success on ships, though, until about 2000. But, we did a week together on some NCL ship, and I had a really rocking show there. He came up to me later, just beaming, gave me a big, joyful hug and said with deep sincerity, "I'm so proud of you!" I could tell that he meant it deeply.

RIP Michael!

I had the pleasure of entertaining with Michael James several times on Celebrity Cruises.  A marvelous performer and a great human being.

I’m deeply saddened to hear about his death.

We had cabins right next to each other on celebrity ships and often shared fun evenings, watching movies and having an adult beverage.

Once I left my shaving kit, with some necessary medicines and my toiletry supplies in my cabin.

Michael was nice enough to collect them and then bring them to me on the ship when I arrived two weeks later.

The ladder act was just incredible.

Miss you forever.  Rest in power. Michael James.!

Thank you for the friendship and the fun over many years

Mark Merchant