Michael Feldmann first appeared in 1990 with his mother, Elizabeth and sister, Elsa when they were evicted from their house by Frank Tate. In his early years, Michael sought employment at Emmerdale Farm, working for Annie and Jack Sugden. He was accused of arson when a barn burnt down but this was later proved to be the work of a labourer from another estate. Michael had a relationship with Rachel Hughes but this ended after he had a one-night stand with Zoe Tate, who later came out as a lesbian.