Michael Justin "Burnie" Burns (born January 18, 1973) is an American actor, writer, director and media proprietor from Austin, Texas. He was a co-founder, former chief executive officer, and former chief creative officer of Rooster Teeth. He is noted for his contributions in machinima, a form of filmmaking that uses video game technology in its production,[1] and also works with animation and live action.[2] Burns is also known for his work in the hosting and podcasting field.