Michael J. Fox Returning to TV in NBC Comedy

UNIVERSAL CITY: Michael J. Fox, who rose to fame 30 years ago on the NBC series Family Ties, is headed back to the network in a brand-new as-yet-untitled comedy, produced by Sony Pictures Television and Olive Bridge Entertainment.

The network has made a commitment for 22 episodes. The show, which is said to be loosely inspired by the people and elements in Fox’s life, will follow a husband and father of three from New York who must deal with family and career challenges. The central character is also dealing with Parkinson’s, much like Fox himself. The single-camera comedy will begin filming later this year and is slated for a launch in fall 2013.

“To bring Michael J. Fox back to NBC is a supreme honor and we are thrilled that one of the great comedic television stars is coming home again,” said Robert Greenblatt, the chairman of NBC Entertainment. “From the moment we met with Michael to hear his unique point of view about this new show, we were completely captivated and on board. He is utterly relatable, optimistic, and in a class by himself, and I have no doubt that the character he will create—and the vivid family characters surrounding him—will be both instantly recognizable and hilarious. Being in business with him is a supreme pleasure.”

“We have all been such huge fans of Michael’s and hoped one day he would return to television with his own show,” added Jennifer Salke, the president of NBC Entertainment. “He had us at hello with his warmth, humor and incredible charisma. The fact that he pitched us a show that was funny, heartwarming and personal was the icing on the cake! We are over the moon and thankful Michael, Will (Gluck) and Sam (Laybourne) will be a cornerstone of our NBC comedy brand.”

“I’m extremely pleased to be back at NBC with a great creative team and a great show,” commented Fox. “Bob Greenblatt and all the folks at the network have given me a warm welcome home, and I’m excited to get to work.”