Michael J. Fox

Michael J. Fox is a beloved actor, author, and activist whose career spans more than four decades. Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Fox began acting as a teenager and rose to fame in the 1980s with his breakout role as the lovable and witty Alex P. Keaton on the hit sitcom "Family Ties," a performance that earned him three Emmy Awards and widespread acclaim. Around the same time, Fox became a global sensation for his role as Marty McFly in the "Back to the Future" trilogy, one of the most iconic film series of the decade.

Fox continued his successful acting career throughout the 1990s, starring in popular films like "Teen Wolf," "The Secret of My Success," and "Doc Hollywood." He also voiced the titular character in the "Stuart Little" films and appeared in critically acclaimed movies such as "The American President." From 1996 to 2000, he starred in the hit TV sitcom "Spin City," earning another Emmy Award, three Golden Globe Awards, and a Screen Actors Guild Award for his portrayal of Mike Flaherty, a charming and resourceful deputy mayor.

In 1991, at the height of his career, Fox was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease at the age of 29. He publicly disclosed his diagnosis in 1998, becoming a leading advocate for Parkinson’s research and awareness. In 2000, he founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, which has since become the world’s largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson’s disease research. Through the foundation, Fox has championed scientific advancements and raised over $1.5 billion to help find a cure for the disease.

Despite the challenges of living with Parkinson’s, Fox has continued to act, often playing roles that highlighted his resilience and humor. He made memorable appearances on shows like "The Good Wife," "Rescue Me," and "Curb Your Enthusiasm." His guest role on "The Good Wife" earned him five consecutive Emmy nominations. Fox’s determination to keep working, paired with his advocacy for optimism in the face of adversity, has made him a symbol of hope and perseverance. In 2025, it was announced that Fox would take on a major guest star role in Apple TV+'s "Shrinking."

In addition to his acting and activism, Fox is a bestselling author. His books, including "Lucky Man," "Always Looking Up," "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Future," and "No Time Like the Future," offer reflections on his life, career, and journey with Parkinson’s.

Fox’s extraordinary life and career have inspired millions worldwide. He has been honored with numerous awards, including an honorary Oscar in 2022 for his humanitarian efforts and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2025. He remains a beloved cultural icon and a powerful voice in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.