Michael J. Fox, most known for portraying Marty McFly in Back to the Future, was born on June 9th, 1961, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Fox’s career began in the late ’70s; his first role was on the show Leo and Me. In the early years of his career, he had mostly one-off roles in sitcoms and TV movies, but this would not last very long! In the ’80s, Fox’s career skyrocketed and has been a wild ride ever since! His career spans six decades; with this in mind, let us jump right into it!
On September 22nd, 1982, Fox appeared on the Pilot episode of the hit sitcom Family Ties! He portrayed the role of the loving son and brother Alex P. Keaton. This role launched his career to new heights! He appeared on the show for all seven seasons and even starred in his career-defining role while still starring in the show!
Now! Let us discuss his time portraying the character of Marty McFly!
In 1985 Fox took over the big screens and starred as Marty McFly in the cult classic Back to the Future! The film was a huge success, earning 388.8 million USD at the box office! Back to the Future went on to become a franchise. In 1989, Back to the Future Part II was released; it was also a box office success, earning 336 million USD! The third and last installment in the franchise was released the following year; it did not fare as well at the box office.
Despite the third Back to the Future film not faring well amongst moviegoers, the films are considered to be cult classics! Fox’s portrayal of Marty McFly is his most beloved role, even to this very day! Some other noteworthy titles from this era of Fox’s career include Teen Wolf, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey, and Family Ties Vacation!
The 2000s and 2010s were also a great time for Fox’s career! He earned over 20 acting credits during this time, many from hit TV shows we all know and love! Some of those shows include,
- Spin City (1996 – 2001)
- Boston Legal (2006)
- Rescue Me (2009)
- The Good Wife (2016 – 2016)
- The Michael J. Fox Show (2013 – 2014)
These are all fantastic shows! Which one is your favorite? Fox was also the executive producer for both Spin City and The Michael J. Fox Show!
In 1998, Fox publicly announced that he suffered from Parkison’s disease. Parkinson’s is a disease that affects the nervous system, causing tremors in the hands or limbs, difficulty standing or walking, and a myriad of other troubling symptoms. After announcing his diagnosis in ’98, he went on to launch The Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2000. According to the foundation’s website, they are dedicated to finding a cure for the disease and helping improve current treatment for it.
Michael J. Fox is a gifted actor and an outstanding philanthropist! The work that he has done to aid in the research for Parkinson’s disease is admirable! We loved him as Marty McFly and as Alex Keaton! What is your favorite Michael J. Fox role?