Michael J. Fox responds after CNN tribute video mistakenly reports his death

Michael J Fox has responded after a tribute video published by CNN mistakenly led some viewers to believe the actor had died. The video, titled “Remembering the life of actor Michael J. Fox,” was removed shortly after publication, with the network issuing an apology.

A spokesperson for CNN said, “The package was published in error; we have removed it from our platforms and send our apologies to Michael J. Fox and his family.”

Fox, 64, addressed the situation directly with a public response. “How do you react when you turn on the TV and CNN is reporting your death? Do you…A) Switch to MSNBC, or whatever they are calling themselves these days, (B) Pour scalding hot water on your lap, if it hurts you're fine, (C) Call your wife, hopefully she's concerned but reassuring, (D) Relax, they do this once every year, (E) Ask yourself wtf? I thought the world was ending, but apparently it's just me and I'm ok. Love, Mike”

The video featured clips from Fox’s career, including his roles in Family Ties, Back to the Future and Spin City, alongside commentary on his work as an advocate for Parkinson’s disease research. Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 1991 and publicly disclosed the condition in 1998. He later stepped back from Spin City in 2000 as symptoms progressed.

The tribute also referenced his humanitarian efforts, noting recognition from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 2022.

Viewers reacted to the video on social media, with some expressing concern after initially interpreting it as a memorial. Others shared personal connections to Parkinson’s disease and Fox’s advocacy work.