Michael J. Fox Welcomed Twins After Being Diagnosed with Parkinson's - They Look Like 'Triplets' with Their Mom
- Michael J. Fox, beloved for his role in "Back to the Future," faced a life-changing diagnosis in 1991.
- Despite this, he and his wife, Tracy Pollan, welcomed twin daughters just a few years later.
- The girls, often remarked to look like "triplets" with their mom, have grown up in the public eye.
In 1991, Michael J. Fox received shocking news. He had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. This came when his career was soaring, and it left many wondering about his future. However, it didn't stop him from continuing his work and expanding his family.
Four years after his diagnosis, the couple welcomed twin daughters, Schuyler and Aquinnah, adding to their growing family. Over the years, these twins have inherited their parents' talent and charisma. They have also grown to look astonishingly like their mother.
The Life-Changing Diagnosis
At the time of his diagnosis, Fox was a rising star with a promising future in Hollywood. The news was devastating, with doctors predicting he had a limited time left to work.
Despite this grim prognosis, Fox's determination and positive outlook remained unshaken. "Yeah, the doctor who diagnosed me in 1991 told me I had 10 years left of work," Fox recalled.
Michael J Fox during Planet Hollywood Grand Opening on October 22, 1991 | Source: Getty Images
He has often spoken about the initial shock and the challenges he faced, but also about the support that kept him going. Fox’s wife, Tracy Pollan, whom he met in 1985 on the set of "Family Ties," has been a crucial part of his journey.
Tracy Pollan and Michael J Fox on the set of "Family Ties," circa 1986 | Source: Getty Images
Their first meeting was memorable, with Pollan standing her ground against Fox's teasing. Surprisingly, this interaction sparked an instant connection. The couple married in 1988, and Pollan has been his rock ever since.
Fox often credits Pollan for her support and for helping him stay positive. Her can-do attitude and optimism have been a source of strength for Fox. She played a big role in helping him navigate the emotional and physical hurdles of his diagnosis.
Pollan once remarked about her husband's relentless optimism, saying, "I sometimes underestimate the power of his optimism, but time and again, I've seen him use it to blast his way back."
This strong foundation was vital for Fox as he continued to work and support his family. Fox and Pollan's family continued to grow and thrive despite the challenges Parkinson's brought.
Tracy Pollan and Michael J. Fox attend the 2017 Vanity Fair Oscar Party on February 26, 2017 | Source: Getty Images
The Twins' Birth and Childhood
Four years after his Parkinson's diagnosis, Fox and Pollan welcomed twin daughters, Schuyler and Aquinnah. At the time, they already had a son, Sam. Later, in 2001, their youngest daughter, Esme, joined the family.
The twins' arrival brought new energy and happiness into the couple's lives. Schuyler and Aquinnah, with their blonde hair and radiant smiles, were a delightful addition to the family. From the start, they filled their home with happiness and laughter.
The twins' childhood was filled with love and support, surrounded by their parents. Despite the ongoing challenges posed by Fox's illness, the family often traveled together, creating cherished memories.
Aquinnah and Schuyler, from a post dated February 16, 2023 | Source: Instagram/tracy.pollan
One of the most heartwarming aspects of their family dynamic is how united they stand. Fox's advocacy for Parkinson's research through the Michael J. Fox Foundation has been a family effort.
Aquinnah and Schuyler often participate in events and campaigns, showcasing their commitment to making a difference. From a young age, they frequently attended public events with their family.
Their teenage years were filled with typical family activities. Despite his health challenges, Fox has remained deeply involved in their lives, ensuring they had a normal, loving upbringing.
Michael J. Fox, his wife Trace, and their twin daughters Aquinnah and Schuyler on July 14, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
As the girls matured, they began to look more and more like their mother, Pollan. It has become common for fans to remark that the three of them could pass for "triplets."
Michael J. Fox, his wife Trace, their children, Esme, Sam,and twin daughters Aquinnah and Schuyler on March 6, 2005 | Source: Getty Images
Pollan, Aquinnah, and Schuyler not only share remarkable physical traits but also a deep connection that shines through in every picture. Observers often express their amazement at the girls' likeness to Pollan.
Comments like "Carbon copies of their momma!" "Beautiful like their mom," and "Momma's twin! Beautiful!" are frequent. Some even exclaim, "It's] triplet time!" or "Wow! You could be their triplet," amazed by their notable resemblance.
Today, Aquinnah and Schuyler are grown, but the bond they share with their parents remains as strong as ever. It is evident in their social media posts that they are a tight-knit family.
Growing up with a famous father and an equally talented mother meant they were often in the public eye. Fans and admirers have observed them as they often accompanied their parents to various events and family outings.
Recent Years and Achievements
As they stepped into their twenties, the twins' accomplishments continued to stand out. Aquinnah and Schuyler chose careers that matched their inventive and persistent natures.
Aquinnah has been part of the TV development team at Annapurna Pictures since September 2022, as her LinkedIn reveals. At the same time, Schuyler began making her mark as a producer at FableVision.
In June 2023, their father, Fox, received a Lifetime Achievement Award, marking a highlight in his distinguished career. His wife and twin daughters were by his side at the Spring Moving Image Awards where he received this accolade.
One of the most recent highlights in the twins' lives is Schuyler's wedding. She recently tied the knot with her longtime partner on June 22. Her big day, coincidentally was also her mother Pollan's 64th birthday.
The ceremony was held in New York's picturesque Catskill Mountains, a setting as beautiful as the occasion itself. In a show of love and togetherness, the whole Fox family was in attendance.
Aquinnah and Schuyler's growth in their careers and lives is ongoing, and their connection with their parents is as strong as ever. They exemplify the grit and optimism that Fox and Pollan have always promoted, highlighting the significance of family ties.
Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan attend the 2024 EE BAFTA Film Awards on February 18, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Looking forward, Aquinnah and Schuyler's prospects seem promising as they uphold their father's legacy and follow their own dreams. Their path mirrors the fortitude, affection, and cohesion that the Fox family is known for.