Michael J. Fox Biography

He made his professional debut in the sitcom 'Leo and Me' in 1976, aged 15, and appeared in a few films before achieving success on TV, first in 'Midnight Madness' and subsequently as the bullied high-school student, in 'Class of 1984'.

The TV sitcom 'Family Ties', shot him to immediate stardom, with his portrayal of the money-obsessed Alex P. Keaton winning him three Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe.

Michael married actress Tracey Pollan, who played his girlfriend on 'Family Ties', in 1988, and they have four children together.

His starring role, as Marty McFly, in 'Back to the Future' and its two sequels, brought him even more recognition.

In 1991 he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, but nevertheless continued working. From 1996-2000, he starred in the hit TV series 'Spin City', finally leaving due to the advancing effects of Parkinson's disease.

Since his diagnosis, he has been a strong advocate of Parkinson's disease research, especially embryonic stem cell research, which many in the scientific community believe may one day help sufferers of Parkinson's and other debilitating illnesses. His foundation, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, was created to help advance this research.

In 2004, Fox guest starred in the medical comedy Scrubs as Dr. Kevin Casey, who suffered from obsessive-compulsive disorder. Two years later he appeared in four episodes of Boston Legal as a lung cancer patient who used his influence in an experimental drug test to ensure he received the real drug instead of a placebo.

The producers brought him back in a recurring role for season 3, beginning with the season premiere. Though his character did not survive the season, Fox was nominated for an Emmy Award for best guest appearance.

Fox has also voiced the title role of the mouse in the successful 'Stuart Little' and 'Stuart Little 2' animated movies.

The actor has also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.