Back to the Future, a science fiction movie released in 1985, is arguably one of the most famous movies of all time. Its timeless story, memorable characters, and iconic props, such as the Gibson ES-345, the semi-hollow electric guitar that Michael J. Fox’s character, Marty McFly, played during his electrifying performance of “Johnny B. Goode.” However, decades after the film’s release, the fate of the iconic piece of prop remains a mystery as it seemed to have vanished without a trace.
Now, ahead of the film’s 40th anniversary, an extensive search has been launched to track down the priceless piece of memorabilia, reigniting excitement among fans of the movie.
Michael Fox speaks on the importance of the iconic missing ‘Back to the Future’ prop
Gibson Launches Global Search for Mission Guitar from the Iconic 80s Film ‘Back to the Future’ https://t.co/fj3sQTINlC pic.twitter.com/Qh0K1kZeLH
— Back to the Future™ (@BacktotheFuture) June 3, 2025
In a recent interview with People, Michael Fox reflected on the significance of the iconic guitar. He explained that, being born in the 1960s, a decade marked by a massive musical revolution, he was exposed to groundbreaking artists like Blind Faith and Rare Earth from an early age, thanks to his older brother. By the time he was seven, he had already developed a deep fascination with Rock ‘n’ Roll, dreaming of becoming a guitarist. This passion would stay with him, eventually influencing one of his most iconic film performances.
Fox noted that the guitar was more than just an instrument to him, it was the vessel through which he was able to capture magic and emotion.
Gibson begins a campaign to recover the lost guitar
To show its dedication to recovering the lost item, the manufacturer of the guitar, Gibson, has launched an international search to find the legendary ES-345 guitar featured in the 1985 film, enlisting the help of the film’s original cast, including Michael J. Fox, Lea Thompson, Christopher Lloyd, Harry Waters Jr., and Huey Lewis in a call-to-action video released on Tuesday, June 3.
As part of the campaign, Gibson has started work on the production of a new documentary Lost to the Future, directed by Doc Crotzer (Roadhouse, Glee) and Mark Agnesi, Gibson’s Director of Brand Experience which will chronicle the hunt for the iconic instrument taking viewers on a global journey through prop warehouses, vintage guitar shops, and auction houses in pursuit of the lost guitar. The documentary will feature in-depth interviews with Back to the Future cast and co-creator Bob Gale, as well as renowned musicians who were influenced by the film.