Michael J. Fox is a name deeply etched into the hearts of movie lovers, television fans, and millions of people inspired by his courage. Known globally for his legendary role as Marty McFly in the Back to the Future trilogy and as Alex P. Keaton in the sitcom Family Ties, Fox is not only a renowned actor but also a powerful advocate for Parkinson’s disease awareness.
In recent years, questions have emerged online: Is Michael J. Fox still alive in 2025? The answer is yes. As of this year, Michael J. Fox is alive, and while his health has presented challenges, he continues to fight, inspire, and contribute actively to public life and medical research.
The Beginnings of an Iconic Career
Michael J. Fox was born on June 9, 1961, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He began acting at an early age and moved to Los Angeles in his late teens to pursue opportunities in film and television. His big break came in the early 1980s when he was cast as Alex P. Keaton on the popular sitcom Family Ties. The show, which ran from 1982 to 1989, earned Fox three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award.
His comedic timing and charm quickly made him a household name. However, his career would reach even greater heights with his most iconic role.
Stardom with Back to the Future
In 1985, Fox became internationally famous for his portrayal of Marty McFly in Back to the Future. The time-travel film was a massive success and led to two equally successful sequels. The trilogy remains one of the most beloved franchises in cinema history.
Fox’s performance—brimming with energy, humor, and sincerity—solidified his status as a major Hollywood star. During this period, he also starred in several other hit films, including Teen Wolf, The Secret of My Success, and Doc Hollywood. He was seen as a reliable box-office draw and one of the most likable actors in the industry.
Life-Changing Diagnosis: Parkinson’s Disease
In 1991, at just 29 years old, Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological condition. At the time, he was at the height of his fame. He kept the diagnosis private for seven years while continuing to work in television and film.
In 1998, he made the decision to go public with his diagnosis. Rather than stepping back from the spotlight, he used it to educate the public and advocate for medical research. That same year, he launched the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, which would go on to become the world’s largest nonprofit funder for Parkinson’s studies.
Advocacy and Resilience
Since the founding of his organization, Fox has raised over $1 billion for research and awareness. The foundation has played a pivotal role in driving drug development, funding clinical trials, and supporting patient communities.
Fox has testified before the U.S. Congress, worked with global institutions, and regularly speaks publicly about life with a degenerative illness. His approach to advocacy—marked by honesty, optimism, and humor—has made him one of the most respected voices in the health advocacy space.
Retirement from Acting and Focus on Health
Due to the progression of his disease, Fox officially retired from full-time acting in 2020. He noted that difficulties with speech and memory made it harder to deliver the performances he was known for. However, he didn’t retreat from the public eye.
He has continued making appearances in interviews, documentaries, and fan conventions. He also authored four best-selling memoirs, in which he shared his journey with candor and insight. His books—Lucky Man, Always Looking Up, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Future, and No Time Like the Future—have touched millions of readers.
Is Michael J. Fox Still Alive in 2025?
Yes, Michael J. Fox is alive as of May 2025. Now 63 years old, he remains active in public life and continues to inspire with his ongoing advocacy and presence at fan events. While Parkinson’s disease presents growing challenges, he has consistently demonstrated that life can still be meaningful and impactful despite adversity.
In early 2025, Fox reunited with the cast of Back to the Future at a fan expo, where he spoke with attendees and celebrated the enduring legacy of the films that defined a generation. His energy and sense of humor were intact, as was his unwavering message of hope.
Health Updates: Honest, Brave, and Transparent
Fox has always been frank about the realities of Parkinson’s disease. In past interviews, he admitted that managing the condition has become harder as the years go on. He has undergone multiple surgeries and experienced painful falls, but his spirit remains unbroken.
He has emphasized the importance of family support, physical therapy, and mental health care as critical aspects of his routine. Despite retiring from acting, he continues to participate in fundraising, research initiatives, and public speaking engagements.
His resilience in the face of a lifelong diagnosis continues to inspire patients and families around the world.
Recent and Upcoming Projects
In 2023, Fox appeared in a heartfelt Apple TV+ documentary titled Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie. The film explored his life story, from fame to diagnosis to advocacy, using archival footage and candid interviews. It was met with critical acclaim and introduced his story to a new generation.
In October 2025, he is set to release his fifth memoir, titled Future Boy: Back to the Future and My Journey Through the Space-Time Continuum. The book promises behind-the-scenes stories, personal reflections, and a message of perseverance.
The anticipation around the release underscores his enduring connection with fans worldwide.
Honors and Recognition
Michael J. Fox’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2025, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States. The award recognized his contributions to the arts and his tireless work in public health advocacy.
Fox has also received honorary doctorates, humanitarian awards, and lifetime achievement recognitions from various organizations. Despite his physical limitations, he continues to inspire millions with his commitment to purpose and community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Michael J. Fox still alive in 2025?
Yes, he is alive and remains involved in Parkinson’s advocacy and public life.
How old is Michael J. Fox now?
He is 63 years old, born on June 9, 1961.
Has he retired from acting?
Yes. He retired from full-time acting in 2020 due to the progression of Parkinson’s disease.
What is Michael J. Fox’s most recent project?
He is releasing a new memoir in October 2025 titled Future Boy.
Is his foundation still active?
Yes. The Michael J. Fox Foundation continues to be the leading Parkinson’s research organization in the world.
What health challenges is he currently facing?
Fox continues to manage Parkinson’s disease, which includes issues with mobility, balance, and speech. He remains open and proactive about his care.
Conclusion
Michael J. Fox is very much alive in 2025, and while Parkinson’s disease has made life more difficult, it has not dimmed his purpose. His journey from beloved actor to globally respected advocate is a rare and inspiring example of resilience.
By facing illness with honesty and dignity, Fox has given others strength and helped build a better future for those affected by Parkinson’s. His legacy is not only about the characters he portrayed but about the hope, humor, and humanity he shares with the world—one story, one step, one day at a time.