Michael J. Fox is making a heartwarming return to the small screen for the first time since 2020. The celebrated actor, known for his iconic roles in the “Back to the Future” trilogy and the TV hit “Family Ties,” is featured in a new trailer for the upcoming season of the Apple TV series “Shrinking.”
The trailer, released on Tuesday, showcases a touching moment between Fox and Harrison Ford, who plays Dr. Paul Rhoades. In the scene, set in a waiting room, Fox’s character light-heartedly asks Ford, “What are you in for?” to which Ford replies, “Parkinson’s. You?” Fox quickly responds with a playful, “Just a quick haircut,” bringing a touch of humor to their conversation.
This scene highlights the ongoing storyline of Dr. Rhoades grappling with Parkinson’s disease, a theme that has been developing since the first season of the show. For Fox, who has bravely battled Parkinson’s for over three decades, the inclusion of such a storyline resonates deeply, considering his own experiences since he publicly announced his diagnosis in 1998.
Over the years, Fox continued to work in film and television until he stepped back in 2020, acknowledging that he was struggling to remember and deliver lines as he once did. In a 2022 conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, he expressed a sense of acceptance regarding his situation, stating, “I can’t remember five pages of dialogue. I can’t do it. It can’t be done. So I go to the beach.”
The exact extent of Fox’s role in the upcoming season of “Shrinking,” which is set to premiere on January 28, remains uncertain. However, the show’s lineup also includes stars like Jason Segel, Jessica Williams, Michael Urie, and Lukita Maxwell, promising a compelling season ahead.
Michael J. Fox’s return not only offers a glimpse of his enduring talent but also serves as an inspiration to many facing similar challenges. His willingness to share his journey through storytelling provides hope and connection in a world where health struggles can often feel isolating.