Actor reflects on daily physical battles and acceptance decades after Parkinson’s diagnosis

Michael J. Fox has opened up about the relentless physical and emotional battles he faces as he continues his decades-long fight against Parkinson’s disease. The Back to the Future star, now 65, was diagnosed with the progressive neurological disorder in 1991 at just 29 years old — a moment that changed the course of his life and career forever.

Speaking to People magazine in a recent interview, Fox described how each day presents new challenges and unpredictable symptoms. “I wake up and get the message of what the day is gonna be like, and I try to adjust to it,” he said, reflecting on how he navigates the uncertainty that Parkinson’s brings.

Parkinson’s disease gradually damages the brain, leading to tremors, stiffness, and difficulties with movement and coordination. For Fox, the condition has meant an ongoing adaptation to physical limitations that continue to evolve over time.

“I keep getting new challenges physically, and I get through it,” he shared. “I roll around in a wheelchair a lot, and it took some getting used to.” His honesty about the physical toll of the disease — and his willingness to speak openly about it — has long made him a symbol of resilience and hope for others living with similar conditions.

Although Fox officially retired from acting in 2020, his passion for storytelling and advocacy has not waned. Earlier this year, he appeared in the third season of Shrinking, the Apple TV+ comedy-drama series starring Harrison Ford. In the show, Ford plays Dr. Paul Rhoades, a character living with Parkinson’s — a role that Fox’s presence helped bring to life with authenticity.

Ford himself praised Fox’s involvement, telling Variety, “He gives me both a physical representation of the disease to inform myself with, but more than that, he allows me to believe that Paul could believe that he could be adequate to the challenge.”

Despite his health battles, Fox remains deeply active in public life. He continues to appear at events, including Glastonbury and several major award ceremonies, using his platform to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson’s research through the Michael J. Fox Foundation — the world’s largest non-profit for Parkinson’s science, which he founded in 2000.

At his foundation’s annual event in November 2024, Fox reflected on how humour remains a vital tool in coping with the realities of his illness. “It’s hard, but I gotta keep it intact,” he said, emphasising that laughter often helps him navigate awkward or difficult conversations about his condition.

“The truth is, it’s OK,” he added. “Let’s embrace that and make a difference.”

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight last year, the Spin City and Teen Wolf star said his perception of the disease had evolved over time. Rather than viewing it as purely negative, he’s found ways to see meaning in his struggle. “I don’t look at it as a bad thing,” he said, suggesting that acceptance and perspective have helped him find peace.

Through his candour, Fox continues to redefine what it means to live with a chronic illness. His public appearances, often marked by warmth and humour, have turned what might otherwise be a story of decline into one of remarkable endurance.

More than thirty years after his diagnosis, Fox remains a powerful advocate for research, empathy, and perseverance. His story — filled with hardship, humour, and hope — continues to inspire millions facing their own daily battles.