'Absolutely correct': Internet agrees with Michael J Fox as he claims 'you had to be talented' to be famous in the '80s

Michael J Fox's reflections highlighted the evolving nature of fame, where the rise of social media has made celebrity status accessible to more people
PUBLISHED APR 14, 2024
Michael J Fox recently shared his thoughts on the evolution of fame and talent in Hollywood during an interview (Getty Images)
Michael J Fox recently shared his thoughts on the evolution of fame and talent in Hollywood during an interview (Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a recent candid interview with People magazine, iconic actor Michael J Fox reflected on the glory days of Hollywood and the craft of acting during the 1980s.

The Emmy-winning star, best known for his roles in hit projects like 'Family Ties' and the 'Back to the Future' trilogy, shed light on the stark contrast between the entertainment industry of the past and today's social media-driven landscape.

Michael J Fox asserts that path to stardom in the '80s was built on skill and dedication

"You had to be talented. That helped," Fox stated, firmly asserting that the path to stardom in the '80s was built on skill and dedication.

"We used to bust our a*s, our acting muscles and watch other actors and sit around with other actors and talk about acting and talk about it," he recalled.

The 62-year-old star's reflections highlighted the evolving nature of fame, where the rise of social media and influencer culture has made celebrity status accessible to more people.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 08: Actors Michael J. Fox speaks during a
In 2020, Michael J Fox decided to step back from onscreen work due to his battle with Parkinson's disease (Getty Images)

"And now you've got people who just go like, who's your sweater? What's the sweater you're wearing? And what's that dance step? And you're the most famous person in the world," Fox observed.

In 2020, Fox decided to step back from onscreen work due to his battle with Parkinson's disease, which had caused difficulties in remembering lines and other aspects of acting.

However, in a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, he expressed openness to returning to acting if a suitable opportunity came up, one that allowed him to incorporate his personal challenges into the role.

He also noted that his participation in the 2023 Apple TV+ documentary 'Still' was unexpected but ultimately fulfilling.

PARK CITY, UTAH - JANUARY 20: Michael J. Fox attends the 2023 Sundance Film Festival
Michael J Fox asserts that the path to stardom in the '80s was built on skill and dedication (Getty Images)

Internet connects with Michael J Fox's words about the evolving nature of fame

Fox's comments regarding fame in relation to the internet resonated widely, eliciting a wave of agreement across social media. One X user exclaimed, "Absolutely correct! Now people are famous for nothing or something ignominious."



 

Another echoed this sentiment, stating, "This is true. Now we have influencers in movies." 

A user praised Fox, declaring, "The man speaks the absolute truth."



 



 

Another commenter reflected on the past, expressing, "Definitely believe they worked harder and seemed to take pride in their craft. Going even further back, watching the old black and white movies, the dialog between actors was top notch."



 

Another user humorously agreed, "Lmao well, he’s not wrong. Today they just stick 'influencers' and reality stars in everything."

Similarly, one more user acknowledged, "Not one lie told. Now any and everything can get fame & it cheapens the craft."



 



 

A user also remarked, "He's not wrong how far have we fallen." [sic]

Another user observed, "He’s right. 'Celebrity' means something totally different these days."



 



 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.

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