Michael J. Fox Makes Acting Return 5 Years Later in Hit Apple TV Show Shrinking

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Michael J. Fox, known for Back to the Future, is acting again. He recently returned to live-action roles with a part on Apple TV+, five years after his last on-screen appearance. He also provided voice work as Michael J. The Fox in this year’s Zootopia 2.

The popular, award-winning comedy recently hinted at a return by Michael J. Fox, and the official trailer, released on December 30th, confirmed it with a short scene. The clip shows Fox interacting with Harrison Ford’s character, Dr. Paul Rhoades, in a doctor’s office waiting room, sharing a humorous moment about their shared circumstances.

“What brings you here?” Fox’s character asked Paul. “Parkinson’s,” Paul replied. Fox playfully said he was just there for a haircut, and both men shared a laugh.

Michael Fox last appeared on screen in 2020, reprising his role as Louis Canning in the series The Good Fight, a spin-off of The Good Wife. He’s since retired from acting, but told Entertainment Tonight in 2024 that he’d be open to returning if the production could work around the challenges he faces with speaking.

I enjoy acting if a role feels right and I can connect with it. I’d especially like to take on a part that allows me to explore personal experiences and challenges, something I can really make my own.

The new show, Shrinking, has finally premiered. Created by Bill Lawrence, it brings together two collaborators who previously worked on the series Spin City from 1996 to 2001.

The actor was best known for playing Mike Flaherty on the show, but he had to leave after four seasons as his health issues worsened. He did return for a guest appearance later in that same season. He and another actor later worked together again on Scrubs, where he appeared in two episodes as a guest star.

Shrinking Already Honored Michael J. Fox

I recently learned the showrunner had actually envisioned Jason Segel as the lead before Harrison Ford signed on. And it’s fascinating, because Segel’s character, Paul, is a therapist navigating life with Parkinson’s. It adds a really interesting layer to the show, seeing him deal with his patients and his own health challenges.

Lawrence shared in December 2024 at a PaleyLive event that Michael J. Fox was his first mentor, and they aimed to portray that relationship in a hopeful, rather than depressing, manner.

Lawrence shared that Michael J. Fox was a huge inspiration to him, both personally and professionally. He admired Fox’s positive attitude and incredible work ethic, even while facing challenges, and hopes to capture that same spirit in their show.

He described Michael as a role model for everyone, highlighting his courage, strength, and dignity. He noted Michael’s intelligence, bravery, kindness, and passion, saying he’s an inspiration to all, regardless of whether they’re dealing with Parkinson’s or any other challenge. He emphasized how remarkable Michael’s grace is.

In addition to Michael J. Fox, Season 3 of Shrinking will bring back another familiar face: Jason Segel will be acting alongside his How I Met Your Mother co-star Cobie Smulders. The season will also feature guest appearances by Brett Goldstein, Damon Wayans Jr., Wendie Malick, and Jeff Daniels.

Shrinking Season 3 debuts on Jan. 28, 2026, on Apple TV.

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2025-12-30 22:37