Michael J. Fox was falsely reported dead this week after CNN mistakenly published a tribute video that incorrectly announced his passing. The error sparked alarm among fans, particularly as the tribute was shared online despite no other confirmed reports.
A CNN spokesperson later acknowledged the mistake, telling TMZ: “The package was published in error; we have removed it from our platforms and send our apologies to Michael J. Fox and his family.”
Not long after, Fox, 64, proved he was very much alive with a surprise appearance at PaleyFest at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, where he joined an on stage reunion with Shrinking co star Harrison Ford.
Ford, 83, was appearing on a panel discussing the Apple TV+ series, in which he plays Paul Rhoades, a doctor quietly living with a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. Fox is set to guest star in the show’s third season as a fellow Parkinson’s patient who forms an immediate bond with Rhoades, a connection that appears to have extended beyond their scenes together.
Fresh from a rare public appearance at last month’s Academy Awards, Fox’s unexpected arrival brought the audience to its feet. In footage that has since spread across social media, Fox and Ford can be seen embracing warmly, clearly happy to be sharing the stage.
During the discussion, Fox joked that his new role did not demand much pretending. “I didn’t have to prove I have Parkinson’s, I have Parkinson’s,” he laughed, drawing a big response from the crowd.
Fox also praised Ford’s portrayal of a character living with the disease, saying, “He nailed it,” and admitting he sometimes saw himself reflected in Ford’s performance.
Fans quickly shared their reactions online, with one writing: “Nothing can stop MJF from being where he wants to be! So happy to see him still doing what he loves,” while another commented: “So touching seeing the wonderful actors feel so helpless to their adored co-star/friend,” and a third simply noted: “Great actors in that room.”
Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 29 after noticing a tremor in his pinky finger while filming Doc Hollywood. He kept the diagnosis private for years before sharing it publicly in 1998.
