Beloved actor Michael J. Fox, famous for his iconic role in Back to the Future, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of his loyal companion, Gus, a 12-year-old Great Dane-Labrador mix. Gus had been by Fox’s side for over a decade, through life’s highs and lows, and his passing leaves the actor navigating life without his faithful friend.
Fox shared the sad news with his one million social media followers, posting a touching photo of Gus along with the message, “Gus — great dog and loyal friend, we’ll miss you.” He also referenced pages 220-222 of his 2020 memoir, No Time Like The Future: An Optimist Considers Mortality, where he described Gus as his “wonder dog” and a source of joy for everyone he met.
Gus held a special place in Fox’s life, particularly as Fox battled Parkinson’s disease, a condition he’s lived with for over 20 years. In his memoir, Fox expressed how much Gus meant to him, noting the deep bond they shared. “I didn’t rescue Gus. You could argue that he rescued me,” Fox wrote, acknowledging the comfort and companionship Gus brought during his health struggles.
Fox spoke about the unique connection between a person and their pet, saying, “No matter your situation or what you’re going through, this animal is with you and connected to you. It’s a force multiplier.” He explained how having Gus by his side eased feelings of isolation brought on by his chronic illness.
Gus even contributed to Fox’s physical recovery after a 2018 surgery to remove a tumor from his spinal cord left him temporarily reliant on a wheelchair. Gus was a constant presence, helping Fox regain his ability to walk. Fox fondly recalled, “He circled the wheelchair, sat in front of me, and looked at me, and I said, ‘It’s going to be okay.'”
The loss of a beloved pet is deeply painful, and Fox’s grief is no exception. Gus’s companionship filled an irreplaceable role in his life, but the memories of their bond will forever remain in Fox’s heart. Let us offer our sympathies as he remembers his cherished friend.
