Michael J. Fox portrayal of Parkinson’s disease in ‘Shrinking’

Michael J. Fox has been a beacon of hope for those battling Parkinson’s disease, and his impact is extending into the realm of television. In a Golden Globe-nominated show called “Shrinking” on Apple TV+, co-creator Bill Lawrence shared that the 63-year-old actor was the inspiration behind a character who grapples with the neurological condition.

If you haven’t caught the show yet, here’s a heads up – in season 2, Harrison Ford’s character courageously confronts Parkinson’s while maintaining his role as a therapist. Lawrence, alongside co-creator Brett Goldstein, has a personal connection to Parkinson’s as both of their fathers are affected by the disease. For Lawrence, delving into this subject is a deeply personal journey that brings the reality of Parkinson’s closer to home.

In a heartwarming twist of fate, Michael J. Fox held the role of Lawrence’s first mentor during their time together on “Spin City” from 1996 to 2002. Fox’s public announcement of his own battle with Parkinson’s during this time greatly impacted Lawrence’s desire to depict the disease in a manner that inspires rather than evokes pity. Fox’s resilience in the face of adversity left a lasting impression on Lawrence, motivating him to portray Parkinson’s with dignity and strength.

Despite the challenges that come with Parkinson’s, Fox’s unwavering work ethic and determination have not wavered. Lawrence admires Fox’s relentless drive to keep pushing forward, showcasing that living with Parkinson’s doesn’t define one’s capacity to work just as hard as anyone else. As “Shrinking” gears up for its third season, Fox’s influence will undoubtedly continue to shine through, shaping a narrative that is both authentic and uplifting.