logo

Remember Turbo in '80s Film 'Breakin''? He's Still Dancing & Once Taught Steve Harvey the Moonwalk

Aby Rivas
By Aby Rivas
Apr 26, 2019
01:16 P.M.

Michael Boogaloo “Shrimp" Chambers is better known for his role as Turbo on the ‘80s dance film “Breakin’.” At 51, he still has a huge fanbase and keeps showing off his best moves whenever he has the chance.

Advertisement

Chambers started his career as a dancer at a very young age. He shaped his dance style following inspiration from sci-fi television shows, including the work of Ray Harryhausen and other stop-motion experts.

Advertisement

In 1984, when he was 17, Michael had his big break on film in the breakdancing-themed comedy-drama film “Breakin’.” There, he stole the show as Tony Turbo, and his dance scene with a broom is still considered one of the most iconic pieces in a dance-related classic film.

Some people don’t know that Chambers was actually who taught Michael Jackson how to moonwalk.

According to “Boogaloo Shrimp,” an Amazon Prime documentary on Chamber’s life released this year, once that Chambers earned a position in the industry, he was featured on a show on channel 7, and there, he did the moonwalk.

Jackson allegedly saw that show, called the network, and asked for Chamber’s contact. Chambers ended up having dancing sessions with Jackson and other dancers. In the end, the moonwalk became Michael Jackson’s signature move.

Advertisement

Chambers wasn’t bothered though. He went on to reprise his role as Turbo on “Breakin’ 2,” where he starred on another epic scene known for fans as the “no gravity bedroom scene.” He was also featured on several music videos, including Lionel Richie’s “All Night Long,” and Chaka Khan’s “I Feel For You.”

He was also featured in the 1983 documentary “Breakin n’ Enterin’,” played “Urklebot” on the TV Show “Family Matters,” hosted the TV Show “Fun House,” and was featured on the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon dancing with Jerry Lewis.

Advertisement

These days, Chambers is still a pro in liquid animation dance with his famous popping, ticking and waving. A few years ago, he appeared on Steve Harvey’s show and taught him how to moonwalk, taking the chance to show off his abilities on the screen once again.

And last year, TMZ caught with him, making him re-do the broom scene in the middle of the street.

“Michael Chambers will go down in history as being one of the iconic innovators of the b-boy and breakdancing culture,” said filmmaker Taylor Golonka.

He was allegedly in talks to do a second sequel to “Breakin’” but nothing has been confirmed.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Related posts

This Iconic Hollywood Couple's Red Carpet Body Language Has Fans Buzzing — Photos from Childhood to Now

June 16, 2026

Janet Jackson, 60, Arrives at the 2026 BET Awards in a '90s-Inspired Outfit That Left Fans with Questions — Photos

June 29, 2026

Beyond Music: 2 Characters Wiz Khalifa Voiced, a TV Role He Played, and His Ultimate Acting Dream

June 17, 2026

Ivanka Trump Makes Rare Personal Confession About Family Tragedy

April 10, 2026

Paris Jackson Shares Health Update After Neck Ultrasound, Reveals Surprising Discovery

May 19, 2026

Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell's Twin Daughters Make a Rare Red Carpet Appearance With Dad – and Fans Say They Look Just Like Their Parents – Photos

July 03, 2026

'Family Matters' Star Reveals Shocking Behind-the-Scenes Drama That Rocked Beloved '90s Sitcom — Her Photos Then and Now

May 08, 2026

Investigation of the Incident Involving 'Top Gun: Maverick' Actor James Handy Takes Shocking Turn as New Evidence Emerges

June 05, 2026

James Handy's Tragic End: What Police Discovered Sends Chills Through Hollywood

June 05, 2026

Paris Jackson Is Now in a Legal Dispute over Her Father's Estate – What's Going On

March 26, 2026

Former NFL Player Darron Lee Faces Murder Charges After What He Told Police at Scene

June 12, 2026