Michael J. Fox nearly fired from Family Ties is a little-known fact that could have changed television history, as the beloved actor almost lost his iconic role as Alex P. Keaton on the NBC sitcom due to unexpected criticism from a top executive. This pivotal moment occurred just as Family Ties was launching Fox into stardom in the 1980s, potentially altering the course of his career.
How Michael J. Fox’s Role Was at Risk in the Early Days
Fox’s journey on Family Ties was not without obstacles. He initially wasn’t the central focus of the show, although his performance was well received by audiences. Despite the positive feedback, his future on the show was jeopardized when a high-ranking executive at NBC took issue with Fox’s appearance rather than his acting talent.
“I wasn’t the featured character in the pilot, but my stuff all seemed to work,”
—Michael J. Fox, Actor
The Executive’s Criticism That Nearly Cost Fox His Job
Entertainment Weekly reported that Brandon Tartikoff, an influential NBC executive, was prepared to let Fox go. Tartikoff expressed doubts about Fox’s commercial viability, even questioning whether Fox’s image would appeal to audiences or sell merchandise, such as the lunchboxes that were popular at the time.
“But when we had a pickup order for the first season, [executive] Brandon Tartikoff wanted to fire me. He said, ‘I love the show, you’ve just got to get rid of the kid. I can’t see that face on a lunchbox.’”
—Michael J. Fox, Actor
NBC’s Decision and Fox’s Humorous Response
Fortunately, NBC’s leadership decided not to act on Tartikoff’s request. Fox remained on the show, and his portrayal of Alex P. Keaton became one of television’s most enduring characters. Years later, Fox would respond to Tartikoff’s early criticism with a sense of humor and perspective, cementing his reputation for humility.
“Years later, when Back to the Future hit and Family Ties was the number two show on TV, I made Brandon a lunchbox with my picture on it, and I wrote, ‘This is for you to put your crow in. Love, me,’”
—Michael J. Fox, Actor
Michael Gross Reflects on Fox’s Transformation and Character
Michael Gross, who played the role of the family patriarch, often spoke highly of Fox’s growth and consistency as both an actor and a person. He remarked on how Fox remained grounded despite his rapid rise to fame and the immense success of both Family Ties and his subsequent projects.
“To watch that transformation was incredible, not the least of which because Michael himself was not transformed. Michael knew he was important, he knew that he had struck gold, but nothing changed,”
—Michael Gross, Actor
“… We were all aware that this was a big deal, but Michael was the same humble, wonderful guy.”
—Michael Gross, Actor
The Lasting Impact of Fox Remaining on Family Ties
Had NBC decided to listen to Tartikoff, Family Ties and perhaps television comedy might have looked very different. Fox’s staying power helped define the show, influenced the careers of those around him, and became a major turning point for the network. His story highlights the unpredictable nature of show business and the impact that one executive decision can have on entertainment history.
