Shocking first choice to play Marty McFly revealed
He had been experiencing early symptoms of the disease, such as a slight tremor in his pinky finger, while filming Doc Hollywood (1991). Pictured: Michael J. Fox is awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Joe Biden in 2025/Getty.
He kept the diagnosis private for several years, before founding the Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2000, which has become one of the largest non-profit organisations focused on Parkinson's research. Picture: Supplied
His bravery in continuing to work and advocate for Parkinson's awareness has garnered him widespread respect. Pictured: Woody Harrelson presents Michael J. Fox with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award onstage during the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences 13th Governors Awards 2022/Getty.
Michael J. Fox has featured in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in the World, a testament to his inspiring career. Picture: Getty
Pictured: Fox presents the Best Film Award on stage during the EE BAFTA Film Awards 2024/Getty
Pictured: Fox and David Beckham backstage during the EE BAFTA Film Awards/Getty
Fox has scaled back his career in recent years due to his ongoing health battle, but made a memorable return to television in 2020, reprising his role as Mike Flaherty on the NBC sitcom Spin City. He also appeared in guest spots on other TV series, such as The Good Wife and Designated Survivor. He is still widely regarded as one of the best actors of his generation. Picture: Getty
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