Michael J. Fox steps out with wife – new picture confirms what we suspected

Michael J. Fox’s life took a dramatic turn when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in his twenties. The beloved actor, known for his roles in “Back to the Future” and “Spin City,” kept his diagnosis private for many years. Now, having made his condition public, Fox is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Parkinson’s research, amassing millions of dollars for the cause.

Despite the profound impact of Parkinson’s on his life, Michael J. Fox shares a remarkable love story with his wife, which has endured for over 35 years. Their bond remains strong, and their children are now adults.

In recent years, Fox’s Parkinson’s has worsened, but he recently appeared on the red carpet, looking great.

Michael J. Fox’s career has been immensely successful, despite his battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Born on June 9, 1961, in Edmonton, Canada, Fox’s early life was unique due to his father’s career in the Canadian Armed Forces, which led to frequent relocations. Eventually, the family settled in Burnaby, British Columbia, where Fox discovered his passion for acting in junior high.

Michael J. Fox – Early Life & Career
He joined his school’s drama division, showcasing his acting talent. According to his website, a theater teacher encouraged him to audition for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation series “Leo & Me,” and Fox landed the role.

Fox secured several television roles while also performing at a local theater in Vancouver. At 17, he decided to pursue acting in Los Angeles, packing his bags and moving with his father’s support.

Fox left high school to follow his dreams, and his father drove him to Los Angeles. Reflecting on this in a recent interview on “LIVE with Kelly and Mark,” Fox expressed amazement at how he convinced his father to support his ambitions.

“I told him I wanted to go to Los Angeles and become an actor. My father, thinking I was a hippie, looked me in the eye and said, ‘If you want to be a lumberjack, you might as well go to the forest.’ So he drove me to California,” Fox recalled.

Michael Fox originally didn’t include the “J” in his name. Upon arriving in Hollywood, he discovered another actor named Michael Fox was already registered with the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). To differentiate himself, he added “J,” honoring his favorite actor, Michael J. Pollard.

Fox achieved his dream, landing one of his most memorable roles as Alex P. Keaton on the comedy series “Family Ties,” which became a television hit.

Michael J. Fox & Tracy Pollan’s Love Story
The rising star won three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award for his performance on “Family Ties.” Soon after, he landed iconic roles, including Marty McFly in “Back to the Future.”

In 1985, the same year “Back to the Future” was released, Fox met Tracy Pollan on the set of “Family Ties,” where they played love interests. While their chemistry remained on-screen initially, they reunited years later and fell in love.

Fox admitted to having a crush on Tracy during their “Family Ties” days.

“I developed a crush on her right away. When she left the show, we were in the parking lot getting into our cars. She played me a James Taylor song called ‘That’s Why I’m Here,’ and I knew she meant I was on a dangerous path,” Fox recalled in an interview with NPR.

“She had only known me for a short time but saw I was partying too hard. A year later, she auditioned for my film ‘Bright Lights, Big City.’ When I asked about her boyfriend, she said they were no longer together. I asked her to lunch, and within two years, we were married.”

Michael J. Fox – Parkinson’s Diagnosis
Fox and Pollan married in 1988, welcoming four children: Sam Michael Fox (born 1989), twins Schuyler Frances and Aquinnah Kathleen (1995), and Esmé Annabelle (2001).

Despite his thriving acting career and happy family life, Fox received devastating news in 1991: he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease at age 29. Initially mistaking a pinky tremor for a sports injury, he learned the truth after visiting a neurologist.

“I went home, shellshocked, and told Tracy tearfully. She didn’t blink. I knew she was with me through whatever happened,” Fox told NPR.

Though diagnosed, Fox kept his condition private, only confiding in his family. He continued acting, landing the role of Deputy Mayor Mike Flaherty in “Spin City,” earning an Emmy, three Golden Globes, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.

“I just wanted to relax”
As “Spin City’s” third season progressed, Fox realized he could no longer conceal his Parkinson’s. He decided to go public with his diagnosis.

“I had press and media at my heels. I wanted to give myself a break, so I told Barbara Walters and People magazine. Then everyone knew,” Fox said.

He also shared his conversation with “Spin City” creator Gary David Goldberg, who reassured him that his symptoms were not noticeable. Fox continued working confidently on the show until he left in 2000, shifting his focus to Parkinson’s research and his foundation.

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research has since raised over $1.5 billion. Fox remains dedicated to finding a cure, and recently, significant progress was made with the discovery of a new biomarker for Parkinson’s.

Devotes his time to Parkinson’s research
As described on the foundation’s website, the assay targets a nervous system protein called alpha-synuclein, detecting the disease in both diagnosed individuals and those at high risk.

“This breakthrough is transforming research and care, with enormous potential for growth,” Fox said. “I’m grateful for the support of patients, families, and researchers as we continue striving to eradicate Parkinson’s.”

Fox is committed to Parkinson’s research and cherishes time with his family. On July 6, 2023, he and Tracy celebrated their 35th anniversary.

“We listen to each other, support each other when needed, and give each other space when necessary,” Tracy told People. “Michael added, “Tracy provides everything our family needs. Any good we do comes from her.”

Unfortunately, Fox’s Parkinson’s has worsened over the years. His tremors, slurred speech, and muscle stiffness are more pronounced, leading to frequent falls and broken bones.

“I had spinal surgery for a benign tumor, but it affected my walking. I’ve since broken my arms, elbow, face, and hand,” Fox said.

Despite these challenges, Fox remains resilient. Recently, he and Tracy attended the Good+ Foundation’s “A Very Good+ Night of Comedy” at Carnegie Hall in New York City, looking as in love as ever.

Michael J. Fox refuses to let Parkinson’s define him. He, his wife, and their four children continue to live fulfilling lives. Fox’s perspective on life remains positive, even after his diagnosis.

A new documentary, “Still,” chronicles his life with Parkinson’s. In the film, Fox explains his outlook on life, saying he has a “chip and a chair” — a chance in the game of life.

“You got a stake in the game; you might not last long, but you have a shot,” Fox told Reuters. “I’m better than that … because I found a way to beat the house.”