Michael J. Fox, the beloved actor best known for his roles in Family Ties and the Back to the Future trilogy, is set to return to television after stepping back from full-time acting due to his battle with Parkinson’s disease. News broke on May 15, 2025, that Fox would guest star in the third season of the Apple TV+ comedy series Shrinking.
Michael J. Fox Returns to the Small Screen
This marks a significant moment for the 63-year-old actor, whose last on-screen acting credit was in 2020 with two episodes of “The Good Fight.” While he lent his voice to the animated short “Back Home Again” in 2021 and was the subject of the documentary “Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie” in 2023, this role in “Shrinking” signifies his return to live-action television after a 5-year hiatus.
The details surrounding Fox’s role in “Shrinking” are currently under wraps, but there is speculation that his character might be connected to Harrison Ford‘s character, Dr. Paul Rhoades, who was revealed to have Parkinson’s disease in the show’s first season. This potential connection has generated considerable excitement among fans, given Fox’s own decades-long journey with the condition and his tireless advocacy for Parkinson’s research through the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
“Shrinking” holds a special connection to Fox’s past, as the series was co-created by Bill Lawrence, who also co-created “Spin City,” the ABC sitcom where Fox starred as Deputy Mayor Mike Flaherty from 1996-2000. Fox’s departure from “Spin City” was due to the progression of his Parkinson’s symptoms, making this reunion with Lawrence particularly poignant.
Lawrence has spoken about the profound influence Fox has had on his life and career, and how that has shaped the portrayal of Parkinson’s in “Shrinking.” He emphasized the desire to depict the experience with inspiration rather than sadness or tragedy, mirroring the resilient spirit that Fox has consistently displayed throughout his public battle with the disease.
The Resilient Spirit of Michael J. Fox
Since revealing his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 1998, seven years after his initial diagnosis at the age of 29, Fox has become a leading voice in the fight against the disease. His foundation has raised over $2 billion for Parkinson’s research, contributing significantly to advancements in understanding and treatment. In recognition of his advocacy, Fox received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 2022 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025.
Despite the challenges posed by Parkinson’s, Fox has remained open to acting, stating in a 2024 interview that he would consider roles that allowed him to incorporate his “realities” and “challenges.” His guest appearance in “Shrinking” appears to be such an opportunity, allowing him to return to a medium he loves while potentially bringing his personal experiences to the portrayal of a character living with Parkinson’s.
Fans have expressed overwhelming enthusiasm for Fox’s return, with many sharing heartfelt messages online expressing their excitement and admiration for the actor. His resilience, humor, and unwavering optimism in the face of adversity have made him an inspiration to millions, and his return to television is eagerly anticipated.
The third season of “Shrinking,” also starring Jason Segel, Jessica Williams, and Christa Miller, is expected to premiere later in 2025. The addition of Fox to the cast, along with other guest stars like Jeff Daniels, Sherry Cola, and Isabella Gomez, promises an engaging and heartfelt season. For Michael J. Fox and his fans, this return to television is not just another acting role; it’s a testament to his enduring spirit and a welcome return to the screen for a beloved icon.
