Michael J. Fox Reveals On-Set Tension with Crispin Glover in New Memoir

NEW YORK, NY — In his new memoir, “Future Boy: Back to the Future and My Journey Through the Space-Time Continuum,” actor Michael J. Fox shares insights about filming the 1985 classic, including tension with co-star Crispin Glover, who played George McFly. Fox recalls that Glover’s unpredictable performance style created challenges on set.

Fox describes how Glover, known for his unique approach to acting, frequently deviated from his designated marks during filming. “Nobody puts Crispin in a box. But that didn’t prevent the camera crew from literally building a box around him,” Fox writes. His comments highlight the creative and sometimes frustrating dynamic between the two actors.

During one scene, Fox notes that Glover failed to stay within the designated space between a clothesline and himself. “As Crispin approached the camera, he was meant to stay in a lane, but Crispin had a different plan,” Fox shares. He speculates that Glover envisioned George as a free spirit, leading to a performance that often wandered off-script.

To address Glover’s erratic movements, the crew devised a temporary solution by fabricating a miniature corral using sandbags and C-stands, keeping Glover within the parameters of the shot. Despite these hurdles, Fox insists he loved working with Glover, stating, “His talent was unquestionable, although his methods sometimes created friction.”

Glover did not reprise his role for the sequels, “Back to the Future Part II” or “Part III,” and was recast due to his reluctance to return. Fox’s memoir sheds light on the complexities of their collaboration and Glover’s distinctive acting choices, emphasizing the respect Fox developed for Glover’s portrayal of George McFly.