Michael J. Fox is best known worldwide as the charismatic star of Back to the Future and a beloved figure in television and film. But for Fox, the titles and accolades he has collected over the decades pale in comparison to the role he treasures most—being a father.
For more than three decades, Fox has shared his life with actress Tracy Pollan, his wife since 1988. Together, they have raised four children: Sam, Aquinnah, Schuyler, and Esmé. Despite the fame that surrounds their household, the Fox-Pollan family has remained remarkably grounded, prioritizing love, empathy, and togetherness over celebrity glitz. Fox has often joked that with four kids, it sometimes feels like five—an endearing nod to the chaos and joy of raising a big family.
In interviews, Fox has consistently emphasized one core philosophy: being present. Speaking to Reader’s Digest, he once explained the importance of never delaying when his kids wanted his attention. “Always be available to your kids,” he said. “Because if you say, ‘Give me five minutes, give me 10 minutes,’ it’ll be 15, it’ll be 20. And then when you get there, the shine will have worn off whatever it is they wanted to share with you.” For Fox, parenting has always been about showing up in the moment, whether it’s for a big milestone or a small, fleeting joy.
That dedication became even more meaningful after Fox’s Parkinson’s diagnosis in 1991. He was only 29 years old when he received the life-altering news, and his family became his anchor as he navigated the challenges of the disease while balancing a high-profile career. Rather than shielding his children from his condition, Fox has praised them for their resilience, compassion, and understanding. Over the years, they have grown up watching their father face adversity with humor and courage—lessons that have shaped their own character and outlook on life.
Fox often shares glimpses of his family life on social media, showing not just his pride in his children but also his gratitude for the bond they all share. On Mother’s Day in 2022, he posted a heartfelt tribute to Tracy Pollan, crediting her with the strength and compassion that have defined their children’s upbringing. “Our children are beautiful, sensitive, intelligent, empathetic, independent, compassionate, adventurous, lovely people. That’s your fault,” he wrote, highlighting the vital role Tracy has played in building their close-knit family.
Each of their children has followed their own path, and while Fox and Pollan are protective of their privacy, they have occasionally shared stories that reveal the warmth and humor of their family life. Sam, their eldest, often resembles his father so much that fans have done double takes when seeing him in public. Twins Aquinnah and Schuyler, now adults, have pursued lives outside of the entertainment spotlight, showing that fame was never the foundation of their upbringing. Their youngest, Esmé, is the baby of the family, and Fox has spoken fondly about the joy of watching her grow into her own person.
For Fox, the everyday moments are what matter most. Whether it’s celebrating birthdays, attending events, or simply being together at home, he has always placed value on the shared experiences that create lasting memories. He often says that his family has given him far more than he could ever give them, providing not just support but perspective.
Living with Parkinson’s disease has not been easy, and Fox has spoken openly about the struggles—both physical and emotional—that it has brought. Yet he also credits his wife and children with helping him see beyond the hardship. Their empathy, patience, and encouragement have allowed him to maintain optimism even in the darkest times. “If I had to sum up my family in one word, it would be resilience,” Fox has said in past interviews.
In a world where celebrity families often find themselves under a microscope, the Fox-Pollan household has managed to stay remarkably private while still sharing their story in ways that inspire others. They remind us that no matter the obstacles, the strength of family can carry us through.
Today, as Fox continues to advocate for Parkinson’s research through the Michael J. Fox Foundation, his children remain a central part of his motivation. His journey as an actor, author, and activist is impressive in its own right, but it is his role as a father that defines him most deeply. To his fans, he may always be Marty McFly, but to his kids, he is Dad—the man who shows up, listens, and loves unconditionally.
Michael J. Fox’s story is ultimately about legacy, not just in film and television but in the lives of his children. And as his family continues to grow and flourish, it’s clear that his most enduring achievement will always be the one closest to his heart: raising four extraordinary children with love, humor, and grace.