More than 30 years after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, Michael J. Fox is speaking openly about the ongoing challenges he faces and how he maintains resilience and gratitude. The actor and advocate recently discussed his experience adapting to the physical realities of his condition, emphasizing a mindset focused on purpose and positivity.
I wake up and get the message of what the day is gonna be like, and I try to adjust to it,
Fox shared.
I keep getting new challenges physically, and I get through it. I roll around in a wheelchair a lot, and it took some getting used to. You take the good, and you seize it.
Diagnosed in 1991 at age 29, Fox has inspired many through his public outlook and dedication to Parkinson’s research. He continues to lead the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, which he founded in 2000, and remains active creatively by engaging with audiences through his projects and writing.
Returning to Acting and Bringing Authenticity to His Role
Though he announced his retirement from acting in 2020, Michael J. Fox made an unexpected comeback with a role in the third season of the Apple TV+ comedy series Shrinking. In the show, which stars Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, Fox portrays a character living with Parkinson’s, marking the first time he has played someone with the condition on screen.
It was the first time ever I get to show up on set, and I didn’t have to worry about am I too tired or coughing or anything,
Fox reflected. I just do it.
Harrison Ford, who plays Dr. Paul Rhoades in the series, praised Fox’s presence, highlighting the authenticity he brings to the role.
Michael’s courage, his fortitude and his grace, more than anything else, is on full display,
Ford told Variety. He described Fox as
a smart, brave, noble, generous, passionate guy
and
an example to all of us.
Ford also emphasized the importance of accurately portraying Parkinson’s in the show, explaining, Parkinson’s is not funny, and stressed,
We can’t be f—ing around with this just to make a joke. It’s necessary to be correct with what we do.
Reflecting on His Past and Looking to the Future
Michael J. Fox is also revisiting his early career in his forthcoming memoir, Future Boy, set for release on October 14. The book details the intense year of 1985 when Fox balanced filming the television series Family Ties during the day and the Back to the Future movies at night, capturing a defining period in his life.
Co-written with longtime collaborator Nelle Fortenberry, Future Boy delves into the creative trials and successes shaping Fox’s legacy. Speaking about that hectic time, Fox admitted,
It took me a long time to believe that I pulled it off,
reflecting on managing two major roles simultaneously.
Looking ahead, Fox remains determined to find new opportunities as both an actor and writer.
I see other people’s work, and it makes me think that I might be able to find something that’s for me as an actor and as a writer,
he remarked.
And as a parent, husband and friend, I have a lot left to do.
Continued Impact and Advocacy in Parkinson’s Research
Michael J. Fox’s ongoing openness about his Parkinson’s journey continues to resonate deeply with audiences and fellow actors alike. His return to television and forthcoming memoir highlight how he embraces both the complexities and possibilities in his life despite the progression of the disease. Through his foundation and personal work, Fox remains a powerful advocate, offering hope and fostering awareness for Parkinson’s patients worldwide.
