Michael J Fox reassures fans after CNN mistakenly airs tribute video in US death scare mix-up
A statement has been released after a major news outlet reported that Michael J Fox had died.
A mistaken CNN tribute video to Michael J Fox briefly sparked confusion this week, prompting the beloved actor to reassure fans he was alive and well, with his trademark humour intact.
The network accidentally published a pre-produced segment reflecting on Fox’s life and career, triggering online concern before the clip was quickly removed.
Fox, 64, addressed the mix-up directly on social media, poking fun at the unusual experience of seeing his own life commemorated on television.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“How do you react when you turn on the TV and CNN is reporting your death?” he wrote.
The Back to the Future star added, “Do you…A) switch to MNSBC, or whatever they are calling themselves these days, (B) Pour scolding hot water on your lap, if it hurts your fine, (C) Call your wife, hopefully she’s concerned but reassuring, (D) Relax, they do this once every year, (E) Ask yourself wtf ?”
“I thought the world was ending, but apparently it’s just me and I’m ok. Love, Mike,” Fox concluded.
CNN later confirmed the segment had been uploaded in error.
“The package was published in error; we have removed it from our platforms and send our apologies to Michael J. Fox and his family,” a spokesperson said in a statement, People reported.
Tribute packages are commonly prepared in advance by news organisations for major public figures, allowing broadcasters to quickly respond to breaking developments.
The clip reflected on Fox’s decades-long career, including his breakout role as Alex P Keaton on Family Ties and global stardom as Marty McFly in Back to the Future.
It also highlighted his advocacy work following his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease in 1991.
In the video, the narrator said of Fox, “He came into our living rooms on the small screen each week as Alex P Keaton (on Family Ties) and eventually onto the big screen as Marty McFly in (Back to the Future),” according to Entertainment Weekly.
“But Michael J. Fox had a compelling third act as a Parkinson’s sufferer and stem cell research advocate.”
“His most lasting role may have been as a tireless voice against Parkinson’s, a performance the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences honored with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 2022,” the clip went on.
“In the end, Fox came to understand that his battle against the disease brought out the best in him.”
Fox has spent decades raising awareness and funding research through the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, which has generated more than $2 billion to support scientific advances.
The actor has continued to make public appearances, most recently attending PaleyFest in Los Angeles to celebrate season three of the Apple TV+ series Shrinking, in which he guest stars.
His representative confirmed he remains in good health.
“Michael is doing great. He was at PaleyFest yesterday. He was on stage and was giving interviews,” the representative told TMZ.
Fox publicly revealed his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 1998 after initially keeping the condition private while continuing to work in film and television.
Over the years, he has spoken openly about the physical challenges of the disease while maintaining an optimistic outlook.
The actor has frequently credited his wife, Tracy Pollan, and their four children for their ongoing support.
“They’re so supportive and so great,” Fox said at a New York fundraising event in November.
“They’ve always been there for me, and they continue to be for me, year after year,” he added.
