He is the son of Animator Gerard Baldwin, who worked on classic shows such as The Jetsons, Rocky and Bullwinkle, George of the Jungle and many more. Michael Baldwin began acting in his teens and was also a member of the Teenage Drama Workshop at California State University. He is best known for his roles as Mike in the Phantasm films (except for Phantasm II). Baldwin practices Eastern Mysticism, and in the 1980s temporarily left acting to explore his spirituality. Some of his latest accomplishments are writing, producing, and appearing in Vice Girls, and its sequel. He has also taught acting classes and workshops in Los Angeles. In May 2015 Baldwin was part of the Phantasm Reunion at Texas Frightmare Weekend.