Michael J. Fox has returned to acting, explaining that a new role in the Apple TV+ series "Shrinking" allowed him to "show up on set" as himself, despite Parkinson's disease impacting his ability to memorize lines.
Fox, 65, was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's in 1991 at the age of 29. He initially retired from acting in 2000, two years after publicly disclosing his diagnosis. He made several television cameos between 2000 and 2020 before taking another break.
"A new variable emerged: my ability to memorize lines," Fox told People. "There’s a time for everything, and the time for 12-hour workdays was behind me."
In "Shrinking," which premiered its third season earlier this year, Fox portrays Gerry. The series was created by Bill Lawrence, a friend of Fox's, with whom he previously worked on ABC's "Spin City." Fox stated that the show offered him the freedom to "use how I feel on any given day and channel it into the scene."
Gerry becomes friends with Harrison Ford's character, Dr. Paul Rhoades, who is also navigating a Parkinson's diagnosis.
Fox received a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his role in "Shrinking." He was previously nominated for his work on "The Good Wife" and "Spin City."
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder affecting dopamine-producing nerve cells, leading to movement issues such as tremors, stiffness, and impaired balance. The Parkinson's Foundation estimates that approximately 90,000 Americans are diagnosed with the disease annually, with 10 to 20 percent diagnosed before age 50. The exact cause of Parkinson's remains unknown, though research suggests potential links to genetic factors and environmental triggers.
Fox's career highlights include his iconic role as Marty McFly in the "Back to the Future" film trilogy and his portrayal of Alex P. Keaton in the television series "Family Ties." He left "Spin City" in 2000 due to worsening Parkinson's symptoms and has since dedicated significant time to his family and The Michael J. Fox Foundation, which funds research aimed at finding a cure for Parkinson's disease.