Who was Michael Donovan? All About Shannon Matthews’ kidnapper, Michael Donovan and his cause of death

Michael Donovan, born Paul Drake, was the youngest of nine children, raised on an estate in Dewsbury.

Throughout his life, he faced learning difficulties, having about half the average IQ, and attended Hartshead Moor special school, where he experienced bullying.

His early years were marked by trouble with the juvenile courts, including arson and shoplifting charges. At 16, he was convicted of criminal damage and subsequently ran away from home.

Changing his name to Michael Donovan at 19, he married Susan Bird and had two daughters. He alleged that Susan was abusive and struggled with drug addiction, leading to their divorce.

How long did Michael Donovan get for kidnapping Shannon Matthews?

Donovan gained notoriety in 2008 when nine-year-old Shannon Matthews disappeared on her way home from school.

Donovan held Shannon captive in his home for 24 days as part of a plot with Shannon’s mother, Karen Matthews, to claim a reward for her safe return.

Shannon was found tethered and drugged in Donovan’s flat, leading to his and Karen’s arrest and subsequent conviction for kidnapping, false imprisonment, and perverting the course of justice.

They were sentenced to eight years in prison.

What was Michael Donovan’s cause of death?

In April 2024, it was revealed that Donovan, also known as Aiden Johnson, had died from cancer at Three Valleys Hospital. Diagnosed with Stage 3 throat cancer in February 2024, he passed away after collapsing in the hospital courtyard.

What happened to Michael Donovan’s children?

Disowned by his family, Donovan’s children were taken into care before the Shannon Matthews case. He was also accused of kidnapping one of his daughters, but the charge was dropped.