Actor Michael J. Fox has opened up about his perspectives on mortality after living with Parkinson’s disease for 35 years, sharing his hope for a peaceful end to his journey with the progressive neurological condition.
The 64-year-old, who was diagnosed at age 29 in 1991, recently discussed the unpredictable nature of his illness and his candid thoughts about death in a new interview with The Sunday Times on October 15, 2025.
Fox described Parkinson’s as fundamentally different from other serious illnesses in terms of its progression and predictability. He explained to the publication that there exists no clear timeline or series of stages that patients go through, contrasting it with conditions like prostate cancer. According to Fox, the disease remains “much more mysterious and enigmatic” than other medical conditions.
The actor, who is currently promoting his new memoir titled “Future Boy,” expressed his desire for a peaceful departure from life when the time comes. He indicated to the newspaper that he would prefer to simply not wake up one day, describing that scenario as really cool. Fox emphasized his preference against a dramatic ending, stating he does not want to trip over furniture or suffer a head injury during his final moments.
Fox noted the rarity of his situation, pointing out that few people have lived with Parkinson’s disease for as long as he has. The progressive brain condition causes physical symptoms including involuntary shaking of body parts, known as tremors, along with slowed movement and various mobility challenges that worsen over time.
The actor has adapted his lifestyle significantly to accommodate his condition’s progression. He told The Times that he does not walk much anymore due to safety concerns. While he retains the ability to walk, Fox acknowledged that his gait is not aesthetically pleasing and presents potential dangers. He described incorporating these limitations into his daily routine, making a light reference to rolling that reality into his life.
In a separate interview with People magazine from the previous week, Fox elaborated on his daily approach to managing the disease. He explained that each morning brings a message about what the day will be like, and he works to adjust accordingly. The actor acknowledged that he continuously faces new physical challenges but finds ways to get through them.
Despite announcing his retirement from acting in 2020, Fox has made selective returns to the screen. He appeared in the third season of the Apple TV+ comedy-drama series “Shrinking,” which features Harrison Ford as Dr. Paul Rhoades, a character also living with Parkinson’s disease. This casting choice provided Fox with an opportunity to portray someone dealing with the same condition he faces in real life.
Beyond his television work, Fox maintains an active public presence through various appearances. He has been seen at high-profile events including Glastonbury and numerous awards shows, demonstrating his commitment to remaining visible in the entertainment industry despite his health challenges.
Fox last spoke extensively about his Parkinson’s experience in November 2024 during the annual gathering of his research organization, the Michael J Fox Foundation. The foundation focuses on finding treatments and ultimately a cure for the disease that has defined much of his adult life.
In previous interviews with Entertainment Tonight, Fox revealed how his perspective on the disease has evolved over more than three decades of living with the condition. He indicated that after 35 years since his diagnosis, Parkinson’s has simply become his life, and he does not dwell on it extensively. Instead, Fox focuses his energy on what the community can accomplish together in terms of research and treatment development.
The actor emphasized his commitment to finding solutions for others facing similar challenges. He expressed his dedication to creating groundbreaking treatment centers and advancing research toward a cure. Fox views his role as extending beyond personal management of his condition to helping the broader Parkinson’s community through scientific advancement and improved care options.
Fox’s openness about his mortality reflects a pragmatic approach to living with a progressive neurological condition. His statements demonstrate both acceptance of his situation and a continued focus on making meaningful contributions to research and treatment development for future patients facing similar diagnoses.