Michael J. Fox is a celebrated actor best known for his iconic roles in popular TV shows and films such as “Back to the Future” and “Family Ties.” Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has become a beloved figure in entertainment, admired for his talent, charm, and resilience. Born in Canada and raised in Burnaby, Fox has left a lasting mark on Hollywood and continues to inspire fans worldwide.
Quick Facts About Michael J. Fox
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Andrew Fox |
| Birthdate & Place | June 9, 1961, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian-American |
| Profession | Actor, Author, Producer |
| Height | 5 ft 4 in (163 cm) |
| Spouse & Children | Tracy Pollan (m. 1988), 4 children |
| Parents | William Fox, Phyllis Fox |
| Education | Burnaby Central Secondary School |
| Career Start | 1979 |
| Breakthrough Role | Alex P. Keaton in “Family Ties” |
| Major Works | “Back to the Future” trilogy, “Family Ties,” “Spin City,” “The Good Wife” |
| Awards | 5 Primetime Emmy Awards, 4 Golden Globes, 2 SAG Awards |
| Philanthropy | Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research |
| Social Media | @realmichaeljfox (Twitter) |
| Net Worth | $65 million (estimated) |
| Residence | New York City, USA |
| Upcoming Projects | Various acting and producing projects in development |
| Fun Fact | Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991 but continued acting |
Early Life & Background
Michael J. Fox was born in Edmonton, Alberta, and raised in Burnaby, British Columbia. He was the youngest of four brothers in a loving family. From a young age, Fox showed a strong interest in acting. After finishing high school at Burnaby Central Secondary School, he moved to the United States to pursue his dream of becoming an actor.
Career Beginnings & Rise to Fame
Fox’s career began in the late 1970s with small roles in television and commercials. His big break came in 1982 when he was cast as Alex P. Keaton on the hit TV show “Family Ties.” The role made him a household name and won him several awards. Fox’s charm and comedic timing quickly led to major film roles, most notably as Marty McFly in the blockbuster “Back to the Future” trilogy, which cemented his status as a Hollywood star.
Major Achievements & Legacy
Throughout his career, Michael J. Fox has earned five Emmy Awards and four Golden Globes for his performances. His work in television and film has made him one of the most recognized actors of his generation. Beyond acting, he has become an important advocate for Parkinson’s disease research after his own diagnosis in 1991. His foundation has raised millions for medical research and increased awareness worldwide.
Personal Life & Recent Work
Michael J. Fox is married to actress Tracy Pollan, whom he met on the set of “Family Ties.” The couple has four children and has maintained a strong, private family life. In recent years, Fox has balanced acting with advocacy work and writing. He appeared in the acclaimed series “The Good Wife” and continues to produce and act in various projects. Despite his health challenges, Fox remains a vibrant figure in the entertainment industry.
Michael J. Fox has left a profound impact on television and film, not only through his unforgettable roles but also through his courageous fight against Parkinson’s disease. As he continues to work on new projects and champion important causes, fans look forward to the next chapter in his remarkable journey. His legacy as an actor and advocate remains inspiring to many around the world.
Most Common Questions About
Michael J Fox is undeniably a legend. But a “modest, down-to-earth, ordinary guy, who just happened to be the biggest star of the 1980s” kind of legend. Perfect comic timing, a frenetic physicality, wit and warmth – these are the hallmarks of his performances across a broad range of genres, and why we love him so.
For general inquiry please contact info@michaeljfox.org. Questions about making a donation please contact donations@michaeljfox.org. For matters related to new or ongoing estate administration please contact plannedgiving@michaeljfox.org or 212-509-1524.
Fox is an award-winning television and film actor whose enduring career as a performer has made him an icon to countless fans around the globe. In 1991, at age 29, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, news he shared with the public in 1998.
Michael J Fox is undeniably a legend. But a “modest, down-to-earth, ordinary guy, who just happened to be the biggest star of the 1980s” kind of legend. Perfect comic timing, a frenetic physicality, wit and warmth – these are the hallmarks of his performances across a broad range of genres, and why we love him so.
Fox is among the most well-known people living with Parkinson’s disease. Many remember him as the fresh-faced young star of the 1980s TV comedy hit Family Ties and the popular Back to the Future movies.
During a conferral ceremony at the White House, Michael was recognized as “one of the most beloved actors of our time with remarkable wit and charm.” He was honored for his boundless determination to change the future for millions living with Parkinson’s: “With undaunted resilience and optimism, he also warms hearts.
When filming Doc Hollywood (1991), he noticed his finger twitching. He was unable to control it. He then saw a doctor and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. On account of his suffering from Parkinson’s disease, during his run on Spin City (1996), he often hid his left hand in his pocket.
“I see possibilities in everything. For everything that’s taken away, something of greater value has been given.” “Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation; it means understanding that something is what it is and that there’s got to be a way through it.” “The least amount of judging we can do, the better off we are.”
Actor Michael J. Fox had holes drilled into his brain as part of his treatment for Parkinson’s Disease, according to one of his doctors. Allan Ropper, professor of neurology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, is quoted.
While filming Doc Hollywood in 1991, Michael developed a tremor in his pinky finger. A consultation with a neurologist revealed a surprising and devastating diagnosis: he had young-onset Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Fox, has spoken about the role of Judaism in his philosophy, his family life and his life with Parkinson’s.
Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, the actor developed a tremor in his pinky finger in 1991 while he was filming “Doc Hollywood.” After seeing a neurologist, Fox discovered that he had young-onset Parkinson’s disease.
Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 29, his clearest symptom was a small one — his pinky finger was twitching.
Ghost. A regret revealed in the documentary “Still”
One of the most poignant moments in this narrative is his admission regarding a legendary role he turned down: that of Sam Wheat in the legendary film Ghost.
Michael J. Fox was celebrated with a standing ovation at the BAFTA Awards in London on Sunday while presenting the evening’s ultimate prize for Best Film. Fox, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991, was aided onto the stage by an attendant who pushed him in a wheelchair.
Or rather I shouldn’t say the recording was necessarily him, but he did have a guitar instructor and learned how to play everything we saw him perform. Nowadays he can still jam, and while Parkinson’s may have a bit of say in his performance overall he still had the groove and soul needed to bring it all to life.
“Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.” – Michael J.
Fox Foundation. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2012. I had my first deep brain stimulation surgery in 2020, and it revised in 2023.
So what if I could just have four glasses of wine and maybe a shot?” Fox says. “I was definitely an alcoholic.” “As low as alcohol had brought me, abstinence would bring me lower. I could no longer escape myself,” Fox recalls, according to the news report.
In 1991, at age 29, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, news he shared with the public in 1998.
