Michael J Fox, 63, set to make TV return after taking hiatus due to devastating Parkinson’s battle
Michael J Fox is understood to be preparing for a TV comeback, which will mark the first time he’s been on screens since his Parkinson’s deteriorated further in 2020.
The Back to the Future star, 63, has battled the condition for decades, and hasn’t taken on any TV roles in five years.
However, the legendary actor has announced he’ll be returning for a guest role in popular Apple+ comedy, Shrinking.
The series explores the lives of three psychiatrists, played by Harrison Ford, Jessica Williams and Jason Segel.
While Fox hasn’t confirmed the role he will be taking on in the show, some have theorised that his character could be linked to Ford’s character Dr Paul, who is currently involved in a Parkinson’s storyline.
His role in the series is the first TV show Fox has starred in since he featured in US legal drama, The Good Fight. In 2019, he featured in his most recent film role as Mr Lockhart in sci-fi movie See You Yesterday.
The father-of-four has been battling Parkinson’s since 1991. He frequently advocates for awareness of the neurodegenerative disease, and has been candid in his discussions around it.
Delving into how he used humour to get him though the tough times, Fox admitted last year: “It’s hard for me, but I gotta keep it intact.”
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Speaking to People magazine whilst attending his foundation’s annual A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Cure Parkinson’s gala, he emphasised the importance of dark humour.
“That’s true. And it’s okay,” he said. “Let’s embrace that and make a difference.”
He also explained in 2024 he had faced a “tough year” the 12 months prior, telling the same publication: “A lot of physical challenges these days have been different bits, but just that I had a lot of stuff…
“I had a movie, a documentary and a lot of obligations. A lot of things have been a lot of effort … And so it was a tough year, but a good year, in each of the challenges (that) came up.”
Speaking previously about living with Parkinson’s Fox shared: “It didn’t defeat me. I wish it was a heroic thing. I’m not saying: ‘Yeah! Bring it, bring it!'”
Speaking to The Guardian, he explained: “I hate it. It sucks. It’s a piece of s***. It’s tough to get up in the morning and keep going. But I have a beautiful family and this office with trophies.”
Fox’s determination is evident in his interviews and appearances, and last year he was spotted on a rare public outing in London.
The actor flashed a peace sign to the cameras as he was snapped in a wheelchair at the Chiltern Firehouse hotel last June.
In pictures obtained by The Mirror, he could be seen chatting with fans close to the luxury hotel.
It comes just months after his emotional speech at the 2024 BAFTAs, in which he presented the award for Best Film.
The actor stood up out of his wheelchair on stage as the crowds cheered before he gave the award to the Oppenheimer cast.
He stated: “Thank you very much. Five films are nominated in this category tonight. All five have something in common.
“They are the best at what we do. No matter who you are or where you’re from, these films can bring us together.”