On August 10, 2025, Michael J. Fox made a rare public appearance at the Southampton Playhouse in New York to mark the 40th anniversary of the beloved film Back to the Future. The event featured a special IMAX screening of the 1985 classic, followed by a moderated discussion with Fox himself, delighting fans and highlighting the enduring impact of the movie.
The anniversary screening was part of the Playhouse‘s ’80s Blockbuster Essentials’ series. Alongside Back to the Future, classics like The Terminator and E.T. were also featured. Outside the venue, a DeLorean replica attracted attendees eager to capture a moment of nostalgia before the film began.
The Enduring Appeal of a Time-Traveling Adventure
Back to the Future, released on July 3, 1985, quickly became a cultural milestone, with Michael J. Fox’s portrayal of Marty McFly capturing the imaginations of audiences worldwide. Alongside Christopher Lloyd‘s iconic role as Doc Brown, the film grossed over $380 million globally and received four Academy Award nominations, winning one. Its blend of sci-fi, humor, and heart has made it a timeless classic.
Throughout the film, fans cherished memorable scenes, such as Marty’s electrifying guitar performance of “Johnny B. Goode” at the Enchantment Under the Sea dance. In 2025, Gibson launched a search for the original red Gibson ES-345 guitar used in that scene, as co-star Lea Thompson revealed no one had preserved the prop, reflecting how different the industry was in 1985.
Michael J. Fox Opens Up About His Memoir and Career Reflections
Fox has announced his upcoming memoir, Future Boy, which chronicles the intense period in 1985 when he was simultaneously filming Back to the Future and starring in the hit sitcom Family Ties. He described that time as hectic yet transformative, likening his memoir to a “time machine” for readers to experience his journey.
“As we approach the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future, my thoughts turn to my adventures as a younger man,”
Fox reflected.
“This book has basically become a time machine for me.”
—Michael J. Fox, Actor and Author
The memoir promises to offer fans heartfelt anecdotes, behind-the-scenes insights, and a deeper understanding of the making of a film that continues to inspire new generations.
Honoring Legends and Preserving Nostalgia
The 40th anniversary event at Southampton Playhouse not only celebrated Back to the Future but also underscored the powerful connection between fans and cultural icons. With figures like Sylvester Stallone, George Strait, and Kiss also recognized in the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors, the spirit of honoring entertainment legends remains strong.
For attendees and admirers, Michael J. Fox’s participation provided a rare and meaningful opportunity to reflect on a career that has both entertained and inspired. The anniversary screening and conversation reinforced the film’s lasting significance and the ongoing affection it commands among audiences worldwide.
