Michael J. Fox has been living with Parkinson’s disease since he turned 30 in 1991. However, he kept his diagnosis under wraps, using pills to suppress his symptoms until the late ‘90s. The actor has since committed to raising awareness about the ravaging disease, which affects regular functions like movement and feeding.
Last year, the father of four made assumptions about the cause of his diagnosis, stating that his lifestyle as a young man may have played a major part in his decline. He got candid about managing his expectations about his lifespan, admitting that he has doubts about turning 80.
Why does Michael J. Fox have Parkinson’s?
While receiving his honorary Oscar in 2022, Fox noted during his speech that he and Woody Harrelson did “some damage” back in the ‘80s, referring to their carefree lifestyle involving alcohol and partying. While speaking with Jane Pauley about his documentary titled STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie, he gave further details about his unhealthy lifestyle in his twenties, which may have cost him optimal health later.
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Fox speculated that he may have a genetic predisposition to the disease, added to environmental factors, which may have been some chemicals he exposed himself to. The multi-talented entertainer recalled how wild his parties were, which meant no surprise if he had injuries or a bad fall that altered his system. He has learned to accept his condition and live a meaningful life nonetheless for as long as he can.
Fox’s life now
Amid his struggles with Parkinson’s, Fox made a surprise appearance at Coldplay’s Glastonbury headline performance on the Pyramid Stage over the week. He joined guitarist Jonny Buckland, drummer Will Champion, bassist Guy Berryman, and band frontman Chris Martin, who specially acknowledged him for igniting their existence as a music group through 1985’s Back to the Future.
Although Fox retired from acting in 2020, he revealed his intention to do more work if he has time and someone offers him a good part. He added that he would love to reflect his reality on whatever project comes up, especially after the success of his documentary. He enjoys family time with his wife Tracy Pollan, with whom he shares twin daughters Aquinnah and Schuyler Fox, and Esmé Fox.