“It’s a stupid thing to do for a living”: Michael J. Fox Still Remembers Keanu Reeves’ Best Friend River Phoenix for His Ultimate Kindness Amid His Fight With Parkinson’s Disease

Michael J. Fox Still Remembers Keanu Reeves’ Best Friend River Phoenix for His Ultimate Kindness Amid His Fight With Parkinson’s Disease
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Life’s thrilling adventure leads us through twists and turns, and even celebrities like Michael J. Fox can’t escape its grasp. The vulnerability he felt, yearning for Keanu Reeves’ best friend, unveils the human side we all share. 

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Fame and success fade in the face of our common emotions. Recently, Michael J. Fox found himself in a “Life’s unpredictability throws surprises at us, leaving us touched by love and loss alike” moment.

Lessons from the Past: Michael J. Fox’s Cherished Memories of River Phoenix

Michael J. Fox
Michael J. Fox

As Michael J. Fox continues to face his battle with Parkinson’s Disease, he holds on to a cherished memory of River Phoenix‘s extraordinary kindness. Their bond goes back more than three decades, starting with Phoenix’s guest appearance on Fox’s former show, Family Ties, back in 1985. Little did they realize that this chance meeting would blossom into a deep and lasting friendship, profoundly impacting Fox’s life in the years that followed.

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Also read: “Do what you want. It’s your movie”: Michael J. Fox Won’t Return in Back to the Future Reboot, Says Original $961M Franchise is Unbeatable

In Michael J. Fox’s heartfelt recollection of the time they were filming Doc Hollywood in a quaint Florida town in 1991, we catch a glimpse of River Phoenix’s compassionate soul. Michael J. Fox fondly shared how Phoenix, along with his brother, organized delightful barbecues for the film crew, showcasing their warmth and generosity. In a heartfelt moment, he mentioned:

“River would take us out. He used to come and scoop us up and take us to his place and have a barbecue. It’s funny because that was an act of kindness that was built on an act of kindness. I guess that’s why he was always so nice to me when he became a huge star”

In the fiercely competitive world of show business, River Phoenix’s gesture stands out as a powerful example of how genuine connections and compassion can thrive among colleagues.

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Also read: Sound of Freedom Star Jim Caviezel Called Back to The Future Star Michael J. Fox ‘Judas’ After Actor Made His Struggle With Parkinson’s Disease Public

Michael J. Fox’s Candid Talk with River Phoenix

Michael J. Fox
Michael J. Fox

Michael J. Fox attributes much of his success to the kindness of his peers in the industry. It’s these heartwarming experiences that inspired him to extend a helping hand to Phoenix during his tough times. As two actors on a shared journey, Fox approached Phoenix with genuine care and a deep understanding. Fox spilled their conversation:

“So I went up to him and I said, ‘What’s the problem?’ And he said, ‘I feel like a d—,'” Fox recalls. “And I said, ‘You feel like a d—? Why?’ He said, ‘I feel goofy, I feel like a d—.’ And I said, ‘Welcome to the business. That’s it. That’s the highest level of accomplishment you’ll get is to feel like a d—.’ It’s stupid. It’s a stupid thing to do for a living.”

Their conversation revealed Phoenix’s insecurities and self-doubts about his craft, to which Fox responded with a heartfelt pep talk. Fox wanted Phoenix to know that facing these feelings is part of the process of becoming a better actor. 

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River Phoenix
River Phoenix

This thoughtful gesture by Michael J. Fox showcased the incredible power of empathy and encouragement, reminding us that support and understanding can truly make a significant difference, especially in an industry called life, known for its roller-coaster ride of ups and downs.

read more: Back to the Future Star Michael J. Fox Reveals His Heartbreaking Condition as Actor Falls Down Live Onstage: “I’m not gonna be 80”

Source: Scoop Up Unworthy

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Written by Chandni Arora

Articles Published: 104

Chandni, an English Honours student, is always ready to explore new things, listen to podcasts, engage with quirky articles, and read poetry. She's a writer with a zest for life and insatiable curiosity about the world around her. You will likely find her wandering with a cup of coffee in one hand and a book or paintbrushes and canvas in the other.