Michael Batayeh

Michael Anthony Batayeh (December 27, 1970 – June 1, 2023) was an American comedian and actor. He played Dennis Markowski, the manager of the industrial laundromat that was a coverup for a meth lab in Breaking Bad.

Michael Batayeh
Born	(1970-12-27)December 27, 1970 Detroit, Michigan, U.S.[1]
Died	June 1, 2023(2023-06-01) (aged 52) Ypsilanti, Michigan, U.S.
Occupations	Comedian Actor
Notable work	Breaking Bad

Career

Batayeh attended Wayne State University before dropping out and moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. He appeared in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and The Bernie Mac Show. His most prominent role came as Dennis Markowski in the hit series Breaking Bad.^[1]

Personal life

Batayeh was born to Jordanian Orthodox Christian parents. His father was a factory worker for Ford Motor Company. During his time in acting, Batayeh divided his time between California, and Michigan.^[1]

Death

On June 1, 2023, Batayeh was found dead in his home by Pittsfield Township police in Ypsilanti, Michigan at age 52. His sister, Ida Vergalla, claimed that he had died of a heart attack.^[1] However, a report by the Washtenaw County Medical Examiner's Office found that he died by "asphyxiation by hanging", and that his death was a possible suicide. His family said "He will be greatly missed by those who loved him and his great ability to bring laughter and joy to so many".^[2]