Michael J. Fox Says Parkinson’s Disease Has Been ‘Hell’ on Wife Tracy Pollan

Michael J. Fox has opened up about the impact Parkinson’s disease has had on his family, saying his diagnosis has been especially difficult for his wife, Tracy Pollan.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the Back to the Future star said, “It was hell on Tracy. It was really hard on her — and it still is because it’s always changing.”

Fox, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991 at age 29, said he decided to be open about his condition rather than hide it. “I have to not hide this. Vanity doesn’t matter,” he said, explaining that he wanted to help normalize the disease and support others living with it.

Fox married Pollan in 1988 after the pair met on the set of Family Ties. He publicly revealed his diagnosis in 1998 and founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in 2000. The organization has since funded more than $3 billion in research.

Despite being told he had only about 10 years left to act, Fox has continued appearing on screen, most recently earning an Emmy nomination for his guest role in Shrinking. He said his foundation’s work is about more than scientific progress, calling it “the humanity” of improving lives.

Fox has often said gratitude helps him remain optimistic, crediting Pollan’s support as a key reason he has been able to face the challenges of Parkinson’s disease.