The Announcement: “We Want You to Hear It From Us”
The message began with a line that set the tone:
“Our dad has always been the one to lead with strength, humor, and honesty — and today, we want to do the same.”
Michael J. Fox’s children went on to explain that their father has been facing increased health complications related to his Parkinson’s disease in recent months. While the actor has been open about his condition since he revealed his diagnosis publicly in 1998, the children expressed that the reality of their father’s aging and ongoing struggles had become more pronounced this year.
“He’s still fighting every day, and we’re so proud of him. But we also want the world to know that the time has come for our family to step back a little — to protect his peace, his health, and his spirit.”
While many feared this announcement might be a prelude to devastating news, the tone quickly shifted toward celebration and gratitude. Michael is not in critical condition, but the family made it clear that he is “slowing down,” and that their focus is now on “time together, rather than time in the spotlight.”
A Legacy Beyond the Screen
Over the past two decades, Michael J. Fox has arguably become more known for his advocacy work than for his film and TV career. After being diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease at the age of 29, he founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, which has raised over $1.75 billion in search of a cure and improved treatment options. His relentless optimism and public vulnerability turned him into a beacon of hope for millions living with the disease.
Now, his children are stepping into that spotlight in their own way.
“We’ve learned from the best,” they wrote. “Our dad taught us that real strength isn’t about pretending everything’s okay — it’s about showing up anyway. It’s about laughing through the hard moments and never forgetting what you’re fighting for.”
The siblings hinted that they would be taking a more active role in the foundation’s future efforts, a sign that Michael’s mission will continue through his children.
The Power of Family
Throughout his life, Michael has credited his wife, actress Tracy Pollan, and their children as his foundation. Married since 1988, Michael and Tracy have raised four children together: Sam (born 1989), twin daughters Aquinnah and Schuyler (born 1995), and their youngest daughter Esmé (born 2001). Their family has remained remarkably grounded and private, despite Michael’s global fame.
In their message, the children shared intimate memories — Sunday pancakes, late-night movie marathons, and quiet moments on family hikes.
“To the world, he’s a hero. To us, he’s just Dad. The one who told corny jokes, who danced in the kitchen, who never missed a school play even if he had to fly across the country. We’re grateful every single day that he’s ours.”
The announcement included several never-before-seen photos: Michael smiling on a boat with his daughters, a candid picture of him cooking with Sam, and a tender black-and-white shot of all six family members embracing.
A Message to Fans
Toward the end of their announcement, Michael’s children turned their attention outward, addressing the millions who have followed their father’s journey — not just as an actor, but as a human being:
“We’ve seen the letters, the stories, the prayers. And we want you to know: they’ve meant the world. You’ve helped carry him when he’s been tired, and you’ve given us all strength we didn’t know we had.”
They emphasized that Michael is “still smiling, still cracking jokes, still finding joy in each day,” but that the public should not be surprised if they see less of him in interviews, red carpets, or even foundation appearances moving forward. “He’s not disappearing,” they reassured. “He’s just shifting his energy — toward healing, rest, and family.”
Hope for the Future
Perhaps the most uplifting part of the message was the commitment made by the four Fox children to carry on the fight their father began.
“We are stepping up. We’re not letting his vision stop here. The Foundation will continue to grow, to push, and to fund research that changes lives. That’s our promise — to him, and to all of you.”
Michael J. Fox’s story has always been one of resilience — not despite Parkinson’s, but because of it. This family announcement isn’t just a goodbye to public appearances — it’s a new beginning for a legacy built on courage, love, and the power of showing up even when it’s hard.
The Final Words: A Father’s Pride
Michael himself, though not present at the announcement, released a short written comment later:
“I’ve lived a life full of love and purpose — and I have my family to thank for most of that. If my kids are speaking now, it means I trust them completely. They’re my greatest achievement.”
As fans continue to flood the internet with messages of support, it’s clear that the love for Michael J. Fox has only grown stronger with time — not just because of who he was on screen, but because of the example he’s set off it.
And as his children step forward, a new chapter begins — not one of endings, but of carrying the torch forward, with the same unwavering light that has always defined the Fox family.
