Michael J. Fox is back after years away from film and television. In 1991, at the age of 30, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Michael spent the last few years adjusting to life with the degenerative condition. He chose to step back from acting and focus on his family.
Now 63, the actor has not had a screen role since 2019’s See You Yesterday, apart from a voice role in 2021 and his own Apple TV+ documentary, where he last appeared on television in 2020. Throughout his retirement, he remained dedicated to his foundation, which he founded in 2000 alongside his wife, Tracy Pollan.
Michael J. Fox returns to acting in Apple TV+ series ‘Shrinking’
View this post on Instagram
Michael is stepping back into the industry with a guest role in the Apple TV+ series Shrinking. The comedy-drama, starring Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, will now feature Michael in a role that has not yet been revealed. Deadline reports that his appearance will likely tie into Ford’s character, Paul Rhodes, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at the end of the first season.
The show’s co-creator, Bill Lawrence, has a long-standing relationship with Michael, having worked with him on Spin City in the late ‘90s. Fans were quick to react to the news and flooded social media with excitement. Comments also rolled in from viewers who have missed his on-screen presence, with many describing the announcement as emotional and long overdue.
Michael J. Fox retired from acting because he couldn’t remember his lines
Michael’s decision to leave acting didn’t happen suddenly. While filming The Good Fight, he began to notice that he couldn’t recall his lines anymore. That moment reminded him of a scene from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, where a fading actor struggles to remember his script.
As he stood in front of a mirror, Michael accepted what was happening. He mentioned that there was no panic, just quiet recognition. Though retirement gave him space to rest and reset, he never ruled out a return. Last year, he mentioned he’d be open to acting again if a role allowed him to work within his current limits.