Back to the Future’s Lea Thompson Admits She Was Initially ‘Snooty’ Towards Michael J. Fox

Back to the Future's Lea Thompson Admits She Was Initially 'Snooty' Towards Michael J. Fox

As a devoted fan of both time-traveling adventures and the captivating world of Hollywood, I find myself deeply moved by the remarkable journey of Lea Thompson and Michael J. Fox. Their shared screen history in the iconic “Back to the Future” trilogy is not just a testament to their undeniable talent but also a symbol of the transformative power of second chances.


Initially, “Back to the Future” actress Lea Thompson wasn’t immediately fond of her co-star Michael J. Fox. Although Fox is famously known for his role as Marty McFly, another actor was initially chosen to play the character during filming. It was Fox who was the original pick for Marty McFly, but his commitments on “Family Ties” prevented him from appearing in the movie, leading to Eric Stoltz being cast as the lead. As production progressed, director Robert Zemeckis felt that Stoltz wasn’t quite right for the part. With Fox’s schedule on “Family Ties” adjusted, Stoltz left the project, and Fox finally took on the role officially.

Thompson, who played the younger Lorraine Baines (who eventually became Marty’s mother), expressed some unease due to this transformation. Recenty, on the Still Here Hollywood podcast, Steve Kmetko, the host, inquired about their initial rapport with Fox, the actress from Caroline in the City.

Probably not because I was friends with Eric Stoltz, who had just gotten fired.

Apart from their previous collaboration on “The Wild Life” in 1984 and subsequent work together on “Some Kind of Wonderful” in 1987, Thompson notes that there was a significant distinction between the movie and television actors during that period. Fox, renowned for his role in “Family Ties,” represented the world of television, quite contrasting Stoltz’s film career, which included notable appearances in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Mask,” earning him a Golden Globe nomination.

I distinctly recall being quite snobbish due to the significant distinction between film actors and television actors at that time. I used to think, ‘He’s merely a TV actor, whereas I am a movie actor, having been in Jaws 3D.’ So, it took some time for me to become friendly with him, but he was incredibly humorous and enjoyable to work with.

Back to the Future and Michael J. Fox’s Success

Back to the Future's Lea Thompson Admits She Was Initially 'Snooty' Towards Michael J. FoxBack to the Future's Lea Thompson Admits She Was Initially 'Snooty' Towards Michael J. FoxBack to the Future's Lea Thompson Admits She Was Initially 'Snooty' Towards Michael J. FoxBack to the Future's Lea Thompson Admits She Was Initially 'Snooty' Towards Michael J. Fox

Universal Pictures’ ‘Back to the Future’ became an immense hit, raking in over $381 million globally, placing it among the top earners of 1985. It received acclaim for its innovative narrative, visual effects, and acting, garnering positive feedback from both critics and viewers. The film led to two subsequent blockbusters, with Michael J. Fox, Lea Thompson appearing in all three installments, along with Christopher Lloyd, Crispin Glover, Thomas F. Wilson, and James Tolkan. To this day, it is cherished as a timeless classic.

Michael J. Fox gained worldwide recognition following the success of “Back to the Future,” which not only propelled him into international fame but also cemented his position as a prominent figure in Hollywood. Alongside the “Back to the Future” series, he featured in various other films such as “Doc Hollywood,” “Teen Wolf,” “The Secret of My Success,” and “For Love or Money.” Recently, Fox was highlighted in the 2023 documentary titled “Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie, ” which offers an insight into his personal life and battles with Parkinson’s disease.

Thompson shared that now, she still sees Fox a few times a year at conventions:

It’s quite unusual to find him in such a setting – right before an audience of about 3,000 people. Occasionally, we even share meals together, which is genuinely pleasant.

Previously known for her role in the TV series “Switched at Birth” from 2011 to 2017, Thompson will soon appear in another story about family confusion: the drama titled “What If“, alongside Leanne Melissa Bishop, Aaron Ashmore, and Kevin Pollak.

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2024-10-03 03:32