Michael J. Fox Responds to Erroneous Report of His Death: 'WTF?'

The beloved actor was confused and amused when CNN mistakenly published an obituary for him.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:56pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of shattered glass and glittering shards, captured in dramatic high-contrast lighting to create a conceptual illustration of the confusion and chaos caused by the mistaken report of Michael J. Fox's death.The unexpected and erroneous report of Michael J. Fox's death caused a social media frenzy, exposing the fragility of information in the digital age.Los Angeles Today

Michael J. Fox, the iconic actor known for his roles in Back to the Future and Family Ties, was surprised and confused when he saw reports of his own death on CNN. The news outlet had mistakenly published a pre-written obituary for Fox, sending the internet into a frenzy. Fox took to social media to share his bewildered reactions, joking about switching to a different news channel or pouring hot water on his lap. He assured fans that he is 'ok' and the 'world is not ending.' CNN has since removed the erroneous report and apologized to Fox and his family.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges media outlets face in managing pre-written obituaries and the potential for mistakes that can cause widespread confusion and concern among the public. It also showcases Michael J. Fox's enduring popularity and the public's deep affection for the beloved actor, who has continued to act and advocate for Parkinson's research despite his own diagnosis.

The details

On Wednesday, CNN mistakenly published an article and video titled 'Remembering the Life of Actor Michael J. Fox.' The headline sent the internet into a tailspin, falsely believing the 64-year-old actor had passed away. Later that night, Fox took to social media to share his bewildered reactions, joking about switching to a different news channel or pouring hot water on his lap. He assured fans that he is 'ok' and the 'world is not ending.' CNN has since removed the report and apologized, stating that the package was published in error.

  • On Wednesday, CNN mistakenly published the erroneous report about Michael J. Fox's death.
  • On the same day, Fox took to social media to share his reactions to the news.

The players

Michael J. Fox

A beloved American actor known for his roles in Back to the Future, Family Ties, and other popular films and TV shows. He has continued acting and advocating for Parkinson's research despite his own diagnosis with the disease in 1991.

CNN

A major American news network that mistakenly published an obituary for Michael J. Fox, leading to widespread confusion and concern online.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“How do you react when you turn on the TV and CNN is reporting your death?”

— Michael J. Fox, Actor

“I thought the world was ending, but apparently it's just me and I'm ok. Love, Mike”

— Michael J. Fox, Actor

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accuracy and fact-checking in journalism, especially when it comes to reporting on the well-being of public figures. It also showcases the enduring popularity and goodwill that Michael J. Fox continues to enjoy, even decades after his iconic roles.