Michael J. Fox: A Life Of Love, Laughter, And Legacy

When you think about Michael J. Fox, your mind probably drifts to his unforgettable roles in the "Back to the Future" trilogy, "Family Ties," or even "Spin City." But beyond the bright lights of Hollywood, there's a man who's built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. Michael is not just an icon on the big screen; he's also a devoted dad to his four children—Sam, Aquinnah, Schuyler, and Esmé—and a loving husband to Tracy Pollan, his partner for over three decades.

A Journey of Love: Michael and Tracy's Story

Back in 1988, Michael walked down the aisle with Tracy Pollan, the talented actress known for her role in "Bright Lights, Big City." Their love story began long before the cameras rolled, and it continues to thrive today. The very next year, they embarked on the next chapter of their journey together when they welcomed their first child, Sam, in 1989. Their family grew even more in 1995 with the arrival of twin daughters, Aquinnah and Schuyler, and their youngest, Esmé, was born in 2001. It’s been over three decades since they exchanged vows, but their bond has only grown stronger with time.

The Secret to Their Lasting Marriage

In 2018, the couple shared the secret to their enduring relationship with People magazine. Michael credited their upbringing in big families and their shared sense of humor as key ingredients in their recipe for success. "Big families, middle children," Michael explained. "Sense of humor. Both our families had that." Tracy echoed those sentiments, adding, "It was us against the world. That's exactly what we've created." Their ability to support one another and give each other the "benefit of the doubt" has been instrumental in keeping their marriage strong through thick and thin.

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It's not always easy, of course. Michael's diagnosis with Parkinson's disease at just 29 years old in 1991 could have been a major obstacle, but Tracy has been by his side every step of the way. "She puts up with me," Michael joked to Closer Weekly in December 2019. "Her big challenge isn't having a Parkinson's patient for a husband. It's having me for a husband." Through it all, Tracy has been a rock of support, and Michael couldn't be more grateful for her presence in his life.

Life Beyond the Spotlight

While Michael's career in showbiz has brought him fame and recognition, his true happiness comes from the people who matter most—his family. Despite doctors predicting that he'd be "pretty much disabled" by now, Michael insists he's doing "great" and is looking forward to creating more memories with his loved ones. "I love my family and my work. I love the opportunity to do things. That's what happiness is," he told Closer. "I really love being alive." Even as he battles his health challenges, Michael remains focused on what truly matters—his family and the joy they bring into his life.

Reflecting on Parenthood and Legacy

In October 2022, Michael opened up about watching his children grow up while navigating his health journey. "My youngest [children] never knew me without Parkinson's," he shared with People. "Sam was 2 or 3 when I was diagnosed. So, they never knew anything else. And there's a certain latitude you have to give someone who has Parkinson's. You can choose how nice to be and how much to do—and how much to know not to do. That's all about empathy." It's clear that Michael values empathy and understanding in his relationships, especially with his kids.

Michael has also been candid about his mortality, telling CBS Sunday Mornings' Jane Pauley that he doesn't expect to live to be 80. "You don't die from Parkinson's. You die with Parkinson's," he explained in April 2023. "I started to break stuff... and I broke this arm, I broke this elbow. I broke my face. I broke my hand, which is a big killer with Parkinson's. It's falling... and aspirating food and getting pneumonia. All these subtle ways that gets ya." Despite the challenges, Michael remains resilient, focusing on the present and the legacy he's building with his family.

Scroll through the gallery below to learn more about Michael and Tracy's four kids!