Michael J. Fox on Parkinson's, and maintaining optimism

One of the most famous actors to burst onto the scene in the 1980s, Michael J. Fox has become almost as famous for his very public fight against Parkinson's disease. With "Sunday Morning" anchor Jane Pauley, the "Family Ties" and "Back to the Future" star looks back on superstardom, raising $1.5 billion for Parkinson's research, and a new documentary tracing his life, called "Still." (This story was originally broadcast on April 30, 2023.)
‪@michaeljfoxfoundation‬
"CBS Sunday Morning" features stories on the arts, music, nature, entertainment, sports, history, science and Americana, and highlights unique human accomplishments and achievements. Check local listings for CBS Sunday Morning broadcast times.
Subscribe to the "CBS Sunday Morning" KZbin channel: bit.ly/20gXwJT
Get more of "CBS Sunday Morning": cbsn.ws/1PlMmAz
Follow "CBS Sunday Morning" on Instagram: bit.ly/23XunIh
Like "CBS Sunday Morning" on Facebook: bit.ly/3sRgLPG
Follow "CBS Sunday Morning" on Twitter: bit.ly/1RquoQb
Subscribe to our newsletter: cbsn.ws/1RqHw7T
Download the CBS News app: cbsn.ws/1Xb1WC8
Try Paramount+ free: bit.ly/2OiW1kZ
For video licensing inquiries, contact: [e-mail]

[@faaaduma6876]

This was painful to watch. Even in his condition, he couldn't stop being the awesome guy he is always been known for. Much respect to him❤

[@JulietParrottMerrell]

I’m glad you said that you could still see and appreciate Michael J. Fox through the Parkinson’s. That’s exactly what many people with disabilities want - to feel as though they are properly seen, recognized and appreciated for the meaningful things they are able to do to enhance people’s lives. I also appreciate that you admitted the video was painful to watch. I’ve had cerebral palsy from birth, and experience many of the same spasms, and shaking that Michael J. Fox does, and the video was painful for me to watch as well. I think that’s because, the shakings and spasms just look so uncomfortable and so painful. But, it’s like in “objects in this mirror“ kind of thing. Sometimes the spasms and shaking are uncomfortable and painful, and other times they are not. Sometimes they feel ordinary. It just depends.

[@golden-sun]

It's only painful because of the interviewer. 3:03. I'll make the call for her

[@squirrelattackspidy]

The interviewer was awful. Focus on the man, not on the disease. Michael will always have a special place in my heart. Such a kind person. He never let his stratospheric fame go to his head. He always had time for his fans.

[@joannhoppel8460]

What a man!

[@elainekinney6186]

Being positive in this illness takes courage and faith. God bless you, Michael!

[@DannyBoy777777]

Evidently, God did not bless him. Or my dad, or anyone else tortured by this terrible condition.

[@chasegibson3653]

We deserve to suffer for what we all did to the son of the most high GOD but GOD did not invent this disease or any other diseases we live in a fallen world GOD makes something good come out of stuff like this GOD bless us and save us all

[@louisereinhart1149]

Where would Parkinsons research be without Michael J. Fox? By allowing his disease to be so widely documented he has brought much needed focus to Parkinsons. Thank you CBS Sunday Morning for this important interview. Jane Pauley did an outstanding job as always.

[@toryberch]

Yes , Jane Pauly is a true lady and interviewer. No doubt Michael was truly at ease in this interview

[@supernotnatural]

still no cure tho so its pointless research wasted money

[@KruggKruscherp]

@@supernotnatural Nothing gets cured without money and research and time... You don't just randomly cure it out of the blue.

[@blakestaredwards]

​@@supernotnaturallearn respect

[@clouds-rb9xt]

@@supernotnaturalNothing comes immediately does it?

[@joefeldpausch]

“Gratitude.” If Michael J Fox can, so can we. I’ll share this with my students!

[@tripod1532]

3:08 My heart hurts. Hurts every time I see him, but he’s such a brave & inspirational person I can’t help but have a little hope. God bless you MJF.

[@hecknogmo3720]

So much love for Michael J Fox. He’s a national treasure and always will be

[@mgrmz]

“With gratitude optimism is sustainable”

[@D.Frasure]

I really hate that life has dealt good Michael J Fox this terrible disease. he is a funny guy but can believe he is also serious and strong.

[@heatherb3668]

Such a fine quote “With gratitude, optimism is sustainable”.

[@TheCowgirlNiamh]

Awful disease! My uncle lost his battle with it recently. It’s amazing how long Michael has lived with this and still keeps going! So much respect for him ❤

[@johnblacksad1627]

You don't die from Parkinson, it's not like Alzheimer, you can live all your remaining life with it, and taking the medication will temporarly give back some form of normality when it comes to all the automatic body process of, just walking normaly. The disease itself does not lead to death, but unfortunatly, a lot of problems related to balance can lead to fatal falls or something like that, and as a caregiver, that is something we had to deal with often.... I'm sorry to hear about your uncle, how did it happen for him if you don't mind me asking ?

[@privateinvestor.]

​@@johnblacksad1627thats right.. you dont die from parnkinson.. my late dad has parkinsons since age 50.. he died at 78.. due to natural causes..

[@zorkitipafed4626]

Ozzy Osbourne claims that he has Parkinson for 30+ years (officially diagnosed in 2003).

[@johnblacksad1627]

@@zorkitipafed4626 It will affect people in very different ways, sometimes it progresses slowly. The treatment is Dopamine based, since the body can't naturally produce that, so it definetly improves the quality of life of a person, however it has it's limits. So I believe Ozzy, and you can see signs of it more than ever.

[@brada-smith2807]

What an incredible attitude you have Michael. I grew up never missing an episode of Family Ties, and to see how your illness has put your life in perspective, and how you can feel your gratitude and goodness… how I would love to buy you a coffee and drink in your hope. I face a tenth of your challenges, and to see your courage and refusal to be beat it really gives me strength. Thank you for being a part of my childhood, and for your incredible being today.

[@kathleensheehan3185]

I have stiff person syndrome and am bedridden from it. AAs a result, I can relate to M.J. Fox' s comments. Kathleen M. Sheehan, Monument Beach, MA

[@Revolt-Theory]

Thank you for fighting for us. I’m 24 and was recently diagnosed. I don’t know what the future holds for me, but I’m glad we have someone like you fighting for us and giving us all a much needed voice. Love and light to you, Michael. 🙏🏻❤️

[@rafaelunplugged]

Nice to see a marriage that lasted not just time, but parkinson's and fame and the world. All the best to those who are living with it and helping those live with it.

[@d.virgallito3490]

We love you Michael!

[@robinshaul4069]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@srdking079]

He’s right you won’t die from it you will die and take it with you. I have cared for dozens and dozens of these patients. A truly horrible and devastating disease. I have so much respect for him he was so young when he found out. Amazing 30 years later and here he is ❤️

[@themanironmask]

I met him last weekend at Fan Expo Chicago.... they warned us he was having a bad day. He was FAR worse than this.... and it was VERY hard to see. I'm happy I got to meet him, got a picture with him and an autograph. He can't keep this up much longer, and I'm praying for him!

[@Jacob-seek-Jesus-123]

Im sorry it happened to Michael j fox but we want to thank you for being the front runner on Parkinson’s & so many other diseases, why, because the world too often looks past whats really happening & the need for more awareness, resources, research, technology, & funding. And just a half a century ago someone with Parkinson’s or any other disease would’ve passed away so the fact he has lived this long is a blessing so thank you & we love you & pray for you & everyone whose battling with disease, have a blessed day.

[@cathymarble3283]

My husband lost his battle in 2021. He was also diagnosed with young on-set. He will always be my Hero. Such a debilitating disease. God Bless You ❤

[@RandomPlayIist]

Sorry for your loss.

[@peterrauth118]

Sorry for your loss

[@MaryKDeane]

My most heartfelt condolences. ❤️

[@donnaturbide4573]

My husband has been gone 2 years. He had an 11 year battle with Parkinson’s. He was 69

[@carebearlulu]

So sorry for your loss. My mom is 71 at the moment and was diagnosed with parkinsons at the age of 59

[@wotan10950]

I know this story is about Michael, but his wife, Tracy Pollan, is an extraordinary actress. She portrayed Kathleen “Kick” Kennedy in “The Kennedys of Massachusetts.” Searing performance. It’s worth seeking out.

[@digzat]

Yes Tracy Pollan is a huge dynamic and has a lovely personality and heart. These two people are super powerful in the will of perseverance in love and faith

[@WheelerRickRambles]

40 yrs ago I was 17 when his tv show debuted. Some say I looked like him. Then, at 21 I wrecked on a motorcycle and paralyzed ever since. I easily relate here!

[@heirloomcottagedesigns9063]

Just breaks my heart for him! Have always loved him. I hope this horrible disease is cured and reversed…❤

[@mariefc8504]

"With gratitude, optimism is sustainable." ❤❤❤ Michael J. Fox

[@user-uh2hg2gm3l]

Michael J. Fox! I have a traumatic brain injury from a vehicle accident; I love you shows and movies! YOU are an INSPIRATION to me!! THANK YOU!

[@buddybighandsome1159]

Michael J. Fox, a hero to many. Keep rockin' it man.

[@GreenWitch1]

God bless Michael J Fox! He’s an inspiration for so many 🥰

[@SarahMichelle777]

Such a strong person, and still absolutely adorable.

[@djcp8853]

My husband has had PD for 14 years…he had deep brain stimulation in 2021 which stopped his tremors but caused him to have no voice and the inability to swallow. It’s been a journey for sure…I care for him 24hrs a day 7 days a week….our life has scaled down to nearly nothing. Our daughter is amazing…our son, non existent….friends have been 50/50…some excellent and some who disappeared. He was a high school teacher and then became an insurance agent for 44 years…always hugely liked, life of the party, and everyone’s best friend. Now it’s a very quiet life. He loves his family, his dogs and horses and the wildlife on our property. People need to understand the toll it takes on not only the person with pd but everyone in their inner circle. He misses being social but pd has taken that from him. Wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy let alone the love of my life.💔😢

[@dianecelento4974]

Your husband is so blessed to have you.

[@bebarchick1]

He was lucky at one thing, having a loving considerate wife. I wish you well. I work with non-verbal autistic children at times and recognized the toll autism takes on parents. They are loving and caring as well but those comments alone do not make the day any less challenging. There is only so much energy anyone can generate. Sometimes people still have to be the caretaker when the energy is no longer there. That is when you need help.

[@toryberch]

Hospice has respite care for caretakers. Even giving yourself a 12 or 24 hr break can recharge you hon It is definitely worth it for your self care 🤗

[@tomekaedwards4809]

Thank you for sharing.We take so much for granted in this life . I am so humbled by people like you and Mr Fox. I pray you the strength and peace and all the love you deserve.😢

[@djcp8853]

@@tomekaedwards4809 thank you so much! Your words meant so much!❤️

[@mililaniman]

I admire Michael J. Fox's optimistic outlook on life.

[@JoseMTamez]

Man, that brought tears to my eyes! I'm one year younger and I feel so grateful for not having nothing like that, because I believe it can happen to anyone. But, I agree with everybody here that he has inspired so many and has brought great success to the research of this terrible disease. I hope he grows old enough to get the treatment after they find it. Take care sir, and rock on!

[@tobechukwuolumba7337]

He is a very brilliant man, a wonderful actor, and a great star. Parkinson's disease is a problem for him, and I hope it will be gone for good. Good luck in winning the fight, Michael.

[@Sarah-m17]

This is a nice comment at the start but it’s more than a “problem” for him. And hope it will be gone? Is a nice thought but it’s not a cold you can get rid of. I know you probably don’t mean it like that but it can’t be gone for good. He’s had it since 1991. There is no cure. It only gets worse over time. Sometimes it’s faster for others. Doesn’t make sense. I’m not sure if you know what Parkinson’s is or the severity of it. Hope you don’t think I’m rude. Don’t mean it to be at all ❤

[@amourdoctrina9435]

While I've never wanting anything but the best for Michael, reconciling his true path and power has been enlightening. God chose a 'Warrior' for his cause and care. I'm in awe and inspired.🙏♥️

[@jaywhitaker1147]

I had the honor of meeting MJ Fox a few years ago, by far one of the kindest, genuine, funny, quick witted, and sweetest person I have ever met, EVER! Truly one of a kind person.

[@jimmy81roberts]

“With gratitude, optimism is sustainable” -MJF

[@debbralehrman5957]

Awesome Man. Good to hear the progress with the Research. My great grandfather had it. But from what I understand it was much later in life. It is great to see him still going as much as he is. 🌹

[@lysmykyta1199]

There has been "progress" with various diseases every year during my long lifetime yet we are not even close to any cures! We don't yet even know what causes most of the diseases!

[@OnlyJosephSanchez]

I love Michael. He was such an icon for me growing up with his movies and shows, not least Back to the Future. Real sad seeing him go through this. Stay strong. 😟

[@carolablue5293]

He is an exceptional human being. Bless his heart. Memorable quote: "Genetics loads the gun. Environment pulls the trigger." He also said that Parkinsons is a gift that keeps on taking.

[@officialjamarmusic5020]

So good to see this man, Back To the Future is my favorite movie of all time. Despite his condition it’s good to see him alive so many people have been lost in the last few years good to see him still here and fighting strong! Let’s go Marty!

[@margieerwin5798]

You are an incredible human being! Thank you for sharing your talent and for all the work you and your family are doing for the Parkinson’s Disease Study Foundation. A forever fan.

[@leslie.mccall]

MJF is so inspiring and courageous! God Bless Michael, our hearts are with you!

[@CourtAboveTheCut]

Such an awful disease and so heartbreaking to see him suffering with it. It’s great the work he is doing and the spotlight he has brought to the disease though. An absolute legend

[@MikeDuryea32]

Great guy! Grew up with him in the 80's. I sincerely wish him the best.

[@CwL-1984]

Respect

[@bollywayne14]

A close friend of mine at work got diagnosed with Parkinson's a few years ago. It's heartbreaking to know this is whats to come.😢.

[@thomaslruppert]

I am so glad I got the opportunity to view the CBS Sunday Morning interview with Michael J Fox, and Jane Pauley on August 6, 2023. Beautiful and inspiring - and best of all was the last 60 seconds where Michael teaches us all that "with Gratitude, Optimism is sustainable." Love love love that perspective - will repeat that everyday for the rest of my life!" Thank you Michael Fox and CBS journalist Jane Pauley - very very inspirational video for all to learn and appreciate how to deal with life on life's terms! Tom Ruppert

[@All-In-All-The-World]

Always my favorite actor, and he raised over $1B... Thats helped the world more than any role could. I like the last quote. Imma try to be grateful

[@bdp3232]

Michael J. Fox is a National Treasure.

[@sema6008]

It was so cool of him and Christopher Lloyd to attend NYCC last year. He’s so strong.

[@annemacleod1421]

It was his joke, to a stranger who went to help him, “You knocked me off my feet”…that got my eyes welling up. I never tire listening to MJ Fox tell us how grateful he is. $1.5b for research is a staggering amount of money raised. It won’t save Michael but will save others. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🐑🐑🇳🇿🇳🇿NZ

[@BasketBall-NewsCast]

It has been decades his suffering breaks my heart and this show did too. Huge fan of his. 😢

[@peterrauth118]

I remember vividly taking my younger sister to see many of his movies when she was a child. Parkinson's is such a terrible disease. I'm so sorry to see Michael afflicted by it. Best wishes👏

[@leonardvicari2857]

I grew up with you in the 1980s watching Family Ties and Back To The Future when I was 19 in 1985 you and Christopher Lloyd were great his mad scientist character is one of my favorite characters. God Bless you Michael J Fox may they find a cure for this disease

[@user-my2ll5fs6g]

He's a awsome actor man he is I pray for Michael fox everyday and nite Prayer for his family also besafe it breaks my heart to see him with this horrible sickness he suffers

[@halstaples2469]

I agree with the previous comment!!! Bless Michael any way possible !!!

[@darrellgarrett72]

I have so much admiration and respect for Michael!

[@jimmyd4153]

Simply an amazing individual Micheal J Fox is! Micheal is an inspiration for so many! Certainly would be awesome if a cure was discovered in the near future and he was treated and was able to recuperate.

[@larrygro]

My mom lost her battle last year as well. I took care of her in her final two years but I wasn’t as patient or compassionate as I should have been. I’m sorry mom. I love you and miss you terribly.

[@awno6627]

Way to go larry

[@slvrbullet22]

hard to watch for sure my heart hurts so much for him. He is so strong and is not letting anything stop him from showing us his reality. Thank you for being so amazing to this day no matter what he faces. We all need to wake up daily with gratitude and thankful for at least 3 things in our lives .

[@TheCgOrion]

I have always looked up to him, but the reason has changed over the years. What a wonderful human being.

[@valkirie19]

I love Michael J Fox! Thank you for your films, and for you do to fight Parkinson's!! I wish we could do more to help you brother! Take care! ✌🏾❤️

[@SuperChalkster]

Back to the Future was probably one of the very first films I can remember watching as a kid in the 80s. I use to think he was so cool. Its such a shame he got a illness. life can be cruel.

[@MsSchwarzerrabe]

I hope that I can see the documents of M. J Fox it's heartbreaking to see what Parkinson are doing we grow up with him and we love him so much! Blessings to you from Frankfurt ❤️

[@amya9597]

My mom was just diagnosed with Parkinson’s. She was in denial and asked to be tested again, the diagnosis was the same. Such a sad disease.

[@CJLOVE23]

I will always love this man ❤

[@williambaumert7726]

This man is an absolute legend. In every single way.

[@tonyabeavers6334]

Michael J. Fox, we love and admire you. Thank you for all you have done and for the research! God bless you and your family! Sending much love!!

[@lindseycarribean5113]

A very brave man. Congrats to him

[@gretchenrobinson825]

My husband is on hospice. The fatigue is overwhelming. I'm grateful to M.J. Fox but thank goodness for hospice. They help us both.

[@osanairyota8507]

Even after the diagnosis, you’re always the winner Michael. I have so much respect for you. Life isn’t always sunshine but I hope your days are with joys and comfort.

[@onlykidstv273]

I crying watching this interview. But is good to know Michael is here with us. Love and respect. Is very good person.

[@davy1458]

Love you Michael.....the 1980s wouldn't have been the same....I've watched you on TV and in movies my whole life since I was a toddler And I've enjoyed every moment....you were fantastic in every role.

[@jesusislord27]

It makes me smile to know that he finally enjoys watching his old movies and seeing how talented he is!

[@Devonellah]

Love this guy so much!! His strength and Positivity is on the level of SUPERHUMAN mode!!!! He is really amazing!!

[@curtismichael4703]

My favorite will always be “Spin City.” He was hilarious on that show! Every so often I’ll watch the season highlights dvd.

[@fralou_sind_kreativ]

What a wonderful person he is! His optimism and strength is amazing

[@hadrianrobles4279]

My sister - 7 years older than I - has an undeniable spirit as Micheal does and has the same as he, here - here! to all those who are with Parkinson's!

[@seeaboutagirl2]

thanks for not being hesitant to interview someone having a movement disease ..

[@lollettealipe9363]

“With gratitude, optimism is sustainable.” Funny and wise. he’s truly an inspiration! May God bless him and sustain him through this difficult journey.

[@diannegazzola1957]

Such a brave man he has given many contributions to both Hollywood and more importantly, Parkinson disease. He has fought this horrific disease and has been a Shinning example to many. God bless him a d his awesome family

[@DeeAnderson-oj2hr]

Heartbreaking so see what Parkinson's has done to his body, so young when diagnosed and certainly not an old man now. God bless him!

[@zielonysnajper2105]

Icon of a man. Thank you Michael

[@MrWoods0_0]

I love this guy. Childhood hero

[@carmarasmussen8118]

What an amazing human being.

[@klakkinkittykat]

I admire Michael J Fox's courage!

[@denisewatson5504]

Love this man. Such an upstanding human being in spite of his plight ❤

[@coolnamebro]

He's an extremely talented actor. The amount of money his dramatic performances have generated is truly astonishing. He just keeps on acting and acting and making more and more money! What an actor Michael J Fox is. Did I mention he's an actor?

[@tyrellanderson4722]

What is it with you and money?? Tf.

[@compound00]

Love this Guy ❤ and I'm sending prayers

[@Enng1156]

Heartbreaking 😢I was born with Dystonia which is also a movement disorder from the brain. I was 28 yrs old before they even new what it was, they had no medication or cure. It took 30 years before I had a medication that worked they use it for Parkinson’s too. I was blessed by God it worked for my type of Dystonia, tremors, spasms, falling down was reduced by 90%. I could cry for Michael watching him go through this. I was no where near his level yet still miserable. God bless you for all you’ve done and all you have endured. 😢

[@kerristanding5774]

Love you Michael you’re an inspiration

[@banke1a1]

Michael you’re a fighter. You’ve got all of our prayers. Fight it my man fight it.

[@karenwaddell9396]

As much as her voice grates on my ears, I could listen to him all day.

[@josephwatts314]

It hurts to watch this interview! Michael is an American Icon! His fingerprints will be forever on "Modern American Culture"! Thanks

[@TheEnglish-Saxon]

One of my childhood heroes! God bless you Michael 💙

[@dusty4047]

I read his book and LOVED it! Love and light to you Mr. Fox.

[@bollywayne14]

Michael J Fox. A LEGEND and TRUE INSPIRATION TO US ALL.

[@furinteeth5845]

My Heart breaks every time I see him but yet he still somehow gives me hope! THANK YOU Mr. Michael J. Fox for being who you were, who you are and who you will continue to be...The Coolest Kid in Hollywood who gave generations an epic childhood!

[@joniarmel7308]

Hope he knows how much his fans love him . Hope he knows how special he is . Thank you Micheal J . Fox for blessing the world.

[@michaelabercrombie7698]

Life sucks. This guy deserves better.

[@RoolSkool]

Watched his documentary still. It's a good documentary

[@davy1458]

Never take your good health for granted....it's a blessing and if you have it youshould be grateful for it every day.

[@IAMTheNiteOwl]

I would love to meet him. He defined my child-hood. I love all his movies, and Family Ties was my jam. I wish nothing but the best for him.