Michael J. Fox: Resilience in the Face of Parkinson’s and Loss
Michael J. Fox has faced enormous personal and physical challenges in recent years — the deaths of his mother, father-in-law, and beloved dog Gus, along with a series of painful injuries related to his Parkinson’s. “I broke this shoulder — had it replaced. I broke this elbow, this hand, my face… and that sucked,” he says wryly.
Since his 1991 diagnosis at age 29, Fox has endured progressive symptoms and health setbacks. He underwent spinal surgery in 2018, suffered multiple falls, and admits to periods of emotional darkness. “I lost family, my dog, my health, my freedom,” he says. “All the signs of depression were there.” But, he adds, “My family pulled me out.”
Fox remains anchored by love for his wife, Tracy Pollan, and their four children. His Upper East Side office is filled with family photos, awards, and a portrait of Gus. Despite everything, Fox insists he still has “a great life.”
His new documentary, Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie, explores his life and career — not with pity, but with honesty and humor. Director Davis Guggenheim says Fox insisted, “No violins,” not wanting a maudlin film.
Still reveals both Fox’s comic genius and his unshakable spirit. Clips from Back to the Future, Family Ties, and Spin City show his balletic timing and unmatched physical comedy. “People underestimated him,” Guggenheim says. “He was swift, graceful — it looked effortless.”
Today, Parkinson’s has affected Fox’s mobility and speech. “Sometimes my jokes land flat because people can’t understand me,” he admits. Yet he’s found ways to adapt — and still finds joy in the “little math problems of existence.”
Despite being retired from acting since 2020, Fox continues to raise awareness and funds through his foundation, which has brought in over $2 billion for Parkinson’s research. He’s also written four memoirs, with a new one, Future Boy, due in October.
Fox says Parkinson’s is “the gift that keeps on taking,” but it’s also brought clarity. “There’s plenty to be gained in the loss,” he reflects. Though he admits, “I won’t win at this,” he remains grounded in purpose and gratitude.
His upcoming role in Shrinking marks his first acting return in five years. Co-star Harrison Ford called the experience “a life lesson,” praising Fox’s strength and spirit.
For Fox, the journey has always been about more than fame. “I won’t let this define me entirely,” he says. “I’m still happy to be a part of the day.”