Michael J. Fox Makes Rare Appearance at Actor Awards with Unexpected Date

The 64-year-old actor was joined by his 36-year-old son Sam at the LA ceremony.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 5:55pm

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Michael J. Fox, the 64-year-old actor known for his roles in Back to the Future and Family Ties, made a rare public appearance at the SAG Actor Awards on Sunday night. He was accompanied by his 36-year-old son Sam, and during his speech, he paid a heartfelt tribute to his family, including his wife Tracy Pollan and their four children.

Why it matters

Michael J. Fox's appearance at the awards show was significant, as the actor has largely kept a low profile in recent years due to his battle with Parkinson's disease, which he was diagnosed with in 1991. His family has been a crucial support system throughout his journey, and his speech highlighted the importance of family and the role it has played in his life and career.

The details

During his speech, Fox reflected on the early days of his career, recalling a teacher who told him he wouldn't "be cute forever." He then introduced his son Sam, who was sitting next to him, joking that he "wasn't an actor, he's just my date." Fox also spoke about meeting his wife, Tracy Pollan, on the set of Family Ties, and how she has given him "four gifts" in their children Skyler, Aquinnah, Esmé, and Sam.

  • Michael J. Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1991.
  • Fox made a guest appearance in season three of the Apple TV series Shrinking in 2026.
  • The SAG Actor Awards ceremony took place on Sunday night.

The players

Michael J. Fox

A 64-year-old actor known for his roles in Back to the Future and Family Ties, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1991.

Sam Fox

Michael J. Fox's 36-year-old son, who accompanied him to the SAG Actor Awards.

Tracy Pollan

Michael J. Fox's wife, who he met on the set of Family Ties and who has been a crucial support system throughout his Parkinson's journey.

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What they’re saying

“When I left school and moved from Canada to LA to make it as an actor, a teacher of mine told me, 'Fox, you're not gonna be cute forever'.”

— Michael J. Fox

“By the way, he's not an actor, he's just my date.”

— Michael J. Fox

“Michael was diagnosed before the girls were born and very, very early into Sam's life, so it's kind of all they know, really. They're just incredibly supportive.”

— Tracy Pollan

What’s next

Michael J. Fox's return to acting in Shrinking season three has been well-received, and fans are hopeful that he will continue to take on more roles in the future, despite the challenges posed by his Parkinson's disease.

The takeaway

Michael J. Fox's appearance at the SAG Actor Awards, accompanied by his son Sam, was a poignant reminder of the importance of family and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. His heartfelt tribute to his loved ones and his continued passion for acting despite his health challenges are an inspiration to many.