Michael Fishman is a name that resonates with fans of classic American television. Best known for his role as D.J. Conner on the iconic sitcom Roseanne and its spin-off The Conners, Fishman has built a career that spans over three decades. From child actor to director and producer, his journey is one of versatility, resilience, and creative evolution.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Aaron Fishman |
| Date of Birth | October 22, 1981 |
| Age | 43 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles County, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’11” (180 cm) |
| Weight | 80 kg (176 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Occupation | Actor, Writer, Producer, Director |
| Years Active | 1988–present |
| Spouse | Jennifer Briner (m. 1999; div. 2019) |
| Children | Aaron, Isabelle, Camille, Larry (late) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $8 million |
Early Life and Background
Born on October 22, 1981, in Los Angeles County, California, Michael Fishman was raised in Cypress in a family of Jewish descent. His parents, Daryl and Denatu Fishman, nurtured his early interest in the arts. He grew up alongside his siblings, Robyn and Matthew, both of whom also dabbled in acting. From a young age, Michael exhibited a natural charisma that would later define his career.
Education and Artistic Roots
Fishman attended Arnold Elementary School and later enrolled at the Orange County High School of the Arts, where he studied Musical Theater and Technical Theater. His formal education in the arts laid a strong foundation for his multifaceted career. Even as a teenager, he balanced academics with acting, showing early signs of his methodical and disciplined nature.
Breakthrough Role in Roseanne
At just six years old, Michael Fishman landed the role of D.J. Conner on Roseanne after impressing Roseanne Barr during an audition. His witty response to Barr’s joke request—“Why did the turtle cross the road? It was the chicken’s day off”—sealed the deal. Fishman appeared in 220 episodes from 1988 to 1997, becoming a household name and earning a Young Artist Award in 1995 for Best Performance in a TV Comedy Series.
Career Beyond Roseanne
After Roseanne, Fishman continued to build his resume with guest roles in popular shows like Seinfeld, Walker, Texas Ranger, and Hitz. He also appeared in films such as A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001) and Undrafted (2016). These roles showcased his ability to transition from child star to mature actor, proving his range and adaptability.
Return to Television: The Conners
In 2018, Fishman reprised his role as D.J. Conner in The Conners, the spin-off of Roseanne. He appeared in 36 episodes until 2022 and even directed several episodes, including the Halloween special in Season 3. His behind-the-scenes contributions as a director and producer highlighted his evolution into a well-rounded creator.
Recent Projects and Career Expansion
In 2023, Fishman starred in Abducted By My Teacher: The Elizabeth Thomas Story, portraying Tad Cummins. This dramatic role marked a departure from his comedic roots and demonstrated his ability to tackle serious subject matter. He continues to write, direct, and produce across various genres, expanding his influence in the entertainment industry.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Michael Fishman is 43 years old. He stands at 5’11” (180 cm) and weighs approximately 80 kg (176 lbs). With hazel eyes and black hair, he maintains a fit and active lifestyle, thanks to his interests in scuba diving and martial arts.
Personal Life and Relationships
Fishman married Jennifer Briner in 1999, and the couple had two biological children: Aaron and Isabelle. They later adopted Camille and Larry, expanding their family with love and compassion. Tragically, Larry passed away in 2020 due to a drug overdose—a loss that Fishman has spoken about publicly to raise awareness and support for families facing similar struggles.
Despite their divorce in 2019, Fishman and Briner have remained committed co-parents, demonstrating maturity and mutual respect in their post-marriage relationship.
Hobbies and Interests
Outside of acting, Michael Fishman is an avid scuba diver, martial artist, and baseball coach. He has coached every level of baseball, from T-ball to community college, and even managed a semi-pro Korean team. His adventurous spirit and dedication to mentoring youth reflect his deep commitment to personal growth and community engagement.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Fishman is actively involved in charitable work, supporting organizations like Make-A-Wish, Special Olympics, and Habitat for Humanity. He co-founded Altruistic Acres with his daughter Isabelle, focusing on environmental preservation and education. His advocacy extends to rare disease awareness and youth development, making him a respected figure beyond the screen.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Michael Fishman is celebrated for portraying emotionally nuanced and relatable characters. His transition from child star to director and producer is a testament to his resilience and versatility. Through his work on Roseanne, The Conners, and various independent projects, Fishman has left an indelible mark on American television.
His story inspires aspiring actors and creators, proving that longevity in entertainment requires both talent and tenacity.
Conclusion
From his breakout role as D.J. Conner to his recent ventures in directing and advocacy, Michael Fishman exemplifies the journey of a dedicated artist. His life reflects a balance of professional achievement and personal integrity, making him a standout figure in Hollywood. Whether on screen or behind the camera, Fishman continues to shape stories that resonate with audiences across generations.
FAQs
Who is Michael Fishman?
Michael Fishman is an American actor, writer, and producer best known for playing D.J. Conner on the sitcom Roseanne and its spin-off The Conners.
How old is Michael Fishman?
He was born on October 22, 1981, making him 43 years old as of 2025.
What is Michael Fishman’s most famous role?
His most iconic role is D.J. Conner, the youngest child in the Conner family on Roseanne.
Is Michael Fishman married?
He was married to Jennifer Briner from 1999 until their divorce in 2019.
How many children does Michael Fishman have?
He has four children—two biological (Aaron and Isabelle) and two adopted (Camille and Larry).
What other shows has he appeared in?
Fishman has guest-starred in Seinfeld, Walker, Texas Ranger, and Hitz, among others.
Did Michael Fishman work behind the camera?
Yes, he has directed and produced episodes of The Conners and other projects.
What is his net worth?
His estimated net worth is around $8–10 million, reflecting his long career in entertainment.
What are his hobbies?
He enjoys scuba diving, martial arts, and coaching baseball.
Is Michael Fishman involved in charity work?
Absolutely—he supports causes like Make-A-Wish, Special Olympics, and co-founded Altruistic Acres.
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