TODAY’S PAPER | December 14, 2025 | EPAPER

Back to the Future star Michael J. Fox reflects on possible causes of parkinson's disease

Michael J. Fox, discussing his early-onset Parkinson's, expressed concerns about his life expectancy.


Pop Culture & Art June 30, 2024 1 min read
Image: Back to the Future

Michael J. Fox, the iconic "Back to the Future" actor, has opened up about his battle with early-onset Parkinson's disease, which he was diagnosed with at age 29 in 1991. During a surprise appearance at Coldplay's Glastonbury headline set, Fox joined the band on stage, playing guitar for their song "Fix You."

Introducing Fox, Chris Martin, Coldplay's lead singer, expressed gratitude, stating, "The main reason why we're in a band is because of watching 'Back to the Future', so thank you to our hero forever and one of the most amazing people on Earth, Mr. Michael J. Fox. Thank you so much, Michael."

Fox, a keen musician, played guitar in the iconic 1985 film. Last year, during an interview with CBS about his documentary "STILL: A Michael J Fox Movie," Fox discussed the possible causes of his condition. Reflecting on his past, he mentioned, "We did some damage in the '80s," implying that his hard partying lifestyle could have contributed to his health issues. When asked by Jane Pauley if he believed his lifestyle could have caused damage, Fox responded, "I mean, there's so many ways that you can ... that I could've hurt myself."

Fox elaborated, suggesting that his condition might be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. He stated, "Most likely I think is that I was exposed to some kind of chemical. What we say is that genetics loads the gun and environment pulls the trigger."

Despite his ongoing battle with Parkinson's, Fox has been a tireless advocate for raising awareness and funds for the disease. He expressed concerns about his life expectancy, saying, "I've been thinking about the mortality of it... I'm not gonna be 80." Fox acknowledged the realities of living with the disease, noting the risks of injuries like falling, choking, or getting sick, which can be fatal for those with Parkinson's.

COMMENTS (3)

Susan Baker | 2 days ago | Reply My husband was diagnosed of Parkinsons disease 2 years ago when he was 49. He had a stooped posture tremors right arm does not move and also a pulsating feeling in his body. He was placed on Senemet for 8 months and then Sifrol was introduced and replaced the Senemet during this time span he was also diagnosed with dementia. He started having hallucinations lost touch with reality. Suspecting it was the medication I took him off the Siferol with the doctor s knowledge and started him on PD-5 natural herbal formula we ordered from AKNNI HERBAL CENTRE his symptoms totally declined over a 3 weeks use of the AKANNI HERBAL Parkinson s disease natural herbal formula. He is now almost 51 and doing very well the disease is totally reversed Visit w w w.aknniherbscentre .com
Eliza | 3 months ago | Reply I was diagnosed with Parkinson s disease four years ago. For over two years I relied on prescription medications and therapies but unfortunately the symptoms continued to worsen. My mobility declined tremors increased and I experienced growing fatigue and discomfort that affected my daily life. Last year out of desperation and hope I decided to try an herbal treatment program from NaturePath Herbal Clinic. Honestly I was skeptical at first but within a few months of starting the treatment I began to notice real changes. My energy improved the discomfort eased and I felt stronger and more capable in my daily life. Incredibly I also regained much of my stamina balance and confidence. It s been a life-changing experience I feel more like myself again better than I ve felt in years. If you or a loved one is struggling with Parkinson s disease I truly recommend looking into their natural approach. You can visit their website at www.naturepathherbalclinic.com
VIEW MORE COMMENTS
Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ