Ryan Reynolds shares insights on life lessons for his daughter James, inspired by his friendship with Michael J. Fox

In a touching tribute to Michael J. Fox, Ryan Reynolds has opened up about a rare and heartfelt moment involving his daughter James, shedding light on his approach to fatherhood and the profound influence Fox has had on him. Reynolds, known for his roles in films such as “Deadpool,” revealed these personal details in a piece written for TIME, dedicated to his fellow Canadian and longtime friend, Michael J. Fox.

Reynolds recounted watching the classic film “Back to the Future” with his now 9-year-old daughter James, describing it as her favourite movie. Despite James’ admiration for the film and Fox, she remains unaware of her father’s personal connection to the star. Reynolds expressed his appreciation for Fox, noting, “I know how lucky I am to call Mike a friend,” yet his daughter has no idea about this friendship.

The tribute goes beyond mere anecdotes, delving into the values that Fox embodies, which Reynolds hopes to pass on to his daughter. Fox, who has been a prominent advocate for Parkinson’s Disease research since his diagnosis in the ’90s, exemplifies qualities like resilience and compassion—traits Reynolds is keen to teach his daughter. He emphasized the importance of learning to embrace failures as part of life’s journey, saying, “I need to teach her that it’s OK to fall a lot. It’s the absolute best way to know you’re flying.”

Reynolds’ revelation came as part of a broader reflection on his role as a parent, which he shares with his wife, Blake Lively. Together, they are raising four children, trying to instill in them the values they cherish. Reynolds also discussed the balance he strives to maintain between his professional life and family time, emphasizing his commitment to being as present as possible for his children.

This rare glimpse into Reynolds’ family life and the values he champions provides a deeper understanding of the actor’s off-screen priorities and the influences that shape his approach to parenting. His tribute to Michael J. Fox not only highlights the deep respect he has for his friend but also underscores the personal lessons he draws from those around him in shaping his role as a father