Fox reveals exclusive insights on Teen Wolf and Back to the Future in new memoir

Michael J. Fox’s new memoir, “Future Boy,” provides exclusive insights into his experiences on iconic films such as “Teen Wolf” and “Back to the Future.” The memoir, released on Tuesday, revisits Fox’s journey through Hollywood in the 1980s, focusing on these two defining movies.
Inside the World of “Teen Wolf” and “Back to the Future”
“Teen Wolf,” co-written by Jeph Loeb, was released in 1985, shortly after Robert Zemeckis’ “Back to the Future.” Despite “Teen Wolf” not being Fox’s favorite project, it achieved remarkable success, grossing approximately $80 million on a $4 million budget. The film starred James Hampton, Jerry Levine, and Doug Savant alongside Fox.
Fox’s Perspective on “Teen Wolf”
In “Future Boy,” Fox humorously recalls feeling like “a whore” during a particular scene on “Teen Wolf,” influenced by the film’s promotional tactics and his costume of yak hair. However, he acknowledges that the film played a crucial role in his early career by granting him a lead role opportunity amid his commitments to “Family Ties.”
The Unprecedented Success of “Back to the Future”
“Back to the Future,” featuring Fox as Marty McFly, dominated the box office for three months in 1985, eventually becoming the year’s top-grossing film. Directed by Zemeckis and produced by Steven Spielberg, the film had an impressive $19 million budget and began its journey with actor Eric Stoltz before Fox was brought on board a month into production.
Fox’s Career Transformation
- “Back to the Future” spawned a trilogy, a short film, and an animated series, securing Fox’s place in Hollywood history.
- “Teen Wolf” inspired an MTV series, launching the careers of actors like Tyler Posey and Dylan O’Brien.
The success of both films marked a turning point in Fox’s life, leading to enduring franchises and cementing his status as a beloved actor.