Where Are They Now? The 'Family Ties' Cast, 35 Years On
The beloved cast of the iconic sitcom “Family Ties” is back in the spotlight, revealing the incredible journeys of its stars from the ’80s to today. This nostalgic trip down memory lane comes as fans are eager to learn what happened to the 'Family Ties' cast who once graced their television screens, capturing hearts and shaping a generation.
For seven seasons, from 1982 to 1989, Family Ties aired on NBC, becoming a cultural phenomenon. It deftly navigated the generational divide between ex-hippie parents and their Reagan-era conservative children, setting the stage and becoming the roadmap for Michael J. Fox to catapult into success. The show just celebrated its 35th anniversary of the finale, and naturally, many wonder where the cast of the show is these days. Join us as we find out what the cast of Family Ties is up to now, including the famous Michael J. Fox.
Table of Contents
- The Enduring Appeal of 'Family Ties'
- Michael J. Fox: From Alex P. Keaton to Global Advocate
- Meredith Baxter: The Matriarch's Journey
- Michael Gross: The Enduring Patriarch
- Justine Bateman: From Mallory to Multi-Talent
- Tina Yothers: Beyond the Youngest Keaton
- Brian Bonsall: From Child Star to Rock Musician
- Scott Valentine: Nick Moore's Enduring Legacy
- Tracy Pollan: Ellen Reed and Beyond
- The Lasting Legacy of 'Family Ties'
The Enduring Appeal of 'Family Ties'
Family Ties is an American sitcom television series that aired on NBC for seven seasons, premiering on September 22, 1982, and concluding on May 14, 1989. The series captured the hearts of millions by presenting a comedic yet poignant look at a family navigating the cultural shifts of the 1980s. At its core, the show revolved around the Keaton family: Steven and Elyse, former hippies and liberal idealists, and their three (later four) children, particularly their eldest son, Alex P. Keaton, a staunch young Republican. This ideological clash provided endless opportunities for humor and thoughtful discussions, making the show more than just a simple comedy; it was a reflection of a changing America.
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The sitcom's success was not just due to its clever writing and relevant themes, but also to its remarkably talented cast, whose chemistry was palpable on screen. From the earnest parents to the distinct personalities of their children, each actor brought depth and believability to their roles. Now, decades later, the question of what happened to the 'Family Ties' cast continues to intrigue fans. Their journeys after the show ended are as diverse and compelling as the characters they played, ranging from continued acting success to advocacy, music, and even venturing into new professional fields.
Michael J. Fox: From Alex P. Keaton to Global Advocate
Michael J. Fox: A Brief Biography
Born Michael Andrew Fox on June 9, 1961, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Michael J. Fox began his acting career in Canadian television before moving to Los Angeles. Having appeared in some television and film roles before Family Ties, the sitcom undoubtedly labeled it as his breakout role—one that would surely last him a lifetime of recognition. His portrayal of the ambitious, young Republican Alex P. Keaton, a stark contrast to his ex-hippie parents, became an instant hit, resonating with audiences across generations. This role, setting the stage and becoming the roadmap for Michael J. Fox to catapult into success, became the first of many successful projects for the actor.
| Full Name | Date of Birth | Place of Birth | Notable Role | Spouse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Andrew Fox | June 9, 1961 | Edmonton, Alberta, Canada | Alex P. Keaton (Family Ties) | Tracy Pollan |
After Family Ties, Fox's career exploded. He seamlessly transitioned from television star to bona fide movie star with the iconic Back to the Future trilogy, which cemented his status as a Hollywood leading man. Other notable film roles include Teen Wolf, The Secret of My Success, and Doc Hollywood. On television, he starred in the hit sitcom Spin City, earning numerous awards, and later had recurring roles in shows like The Good Wife and Rescue Me. His distinctive voice also made him a popular choice for animated films, notably as Stuart Little.
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The Parkinson's Advocate
In 1991, Fox was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's disease, a condition he publicly disclosed in 1998. Since then, he has become one of the most prominent advocates for Parkinson's research. His focus is on his advocacy for Parkinson’s research, establishing the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research in 2000. This foundation has become the largest non-profit funder of Parkinson's drug development in the world, having funded over $1.75 billion in research. Fox's openness about his struggles and his relentless dedication to finding a cure have inspired millions worldwide, demonstrating incredible resilience and optimism in the face of adversity. He has also authored several best-selling books, sharing his journey and insights, and continues to be an active voice in the medical community, pushing for breakthroughs and supporting those living with Parkinson's.
Meredith Baxter: The Matriarch's Journey
Meredith Baxter, born June 21, 1947, was already a familiar face on television before taking on the role of Elyse Keaton, the liberal, artistic, and deeply loving mother in Family Ties. Known for her role in the popular 1970s drama Family, Baxter brought a warm, grounding presence to the Keaton household, serving as the perfect foil to her conservative son, Alex.
| Full Name | Date of Birth | Place of Birth | Notable Role | Spouse(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meredith Ann Baxter | June 21, 1947 | South Pasadena, California, USA | Elyse Keaton (Family Ties) | Michael Blodgett (m. 1966; div. 1969), David Birney (m. 1974; div. 1990), Michael McGuire (m. 1995; div. 2000), Nancy Locke (m. 2013) |
After Family Ties concluded, Baxter continued her prolific career in television, primarily in made-for-TV movies and guest appearances on popular series. She received Emmy nominations for her work in films like Betty Broderick: A Mother's Vengeance (1992) and A Woman Scorned: The Betty Broderick Story (1992), showcasing her dramatic range. She also appeared in theatrical productions and made guest appearances on shows such as Spin City (reuniting with Michael J. Fox), 7th Heaven, and Glee. In 2009, Baxter publicly came out as a lesbian, and in 2011, she released her autobiography, "Untied: A Memoir of Family, Fame, and Floundering," offering candid insights into her life and career. She continues to act and advocate for various causes, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry.
Michael Gross: The Enduring Patriarch
Michael Gross, born June 21, 1947, brought a calm and thoughtful demeanor to the role of Steven Keaton, the PBS station manager and former hippie husband of Elyse. Having appeared in some television and film roles before Family Ties, Michael Gross undoubtedly labeled the sitcom as his breakout role—one that would surely last him a lifetime of recognition. His portrayal of a father who, despite his liberal views, genuinely loved and respected his conservative son, provided much of the show's warmth and heart.
| Full Name | Date of Birth | Place of Birth | Notable Role | Spouse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Edward Gross | June 21, 1947 | Chicago, Illinois, USA | Steven Keaton (Family Ties) | Elza Bergeron |
Gross’ career after Family Ties ceased to stop. He has enjoyed a remarkably consistent and varied career across film, television, and stage. Perhaps his most iconic post-Family Ties role is that of Burt Gummer in the Tremors film franchise, a character he has played in every installment since 1990, becoming a cult favorite. On television, he has made numerous guest appearances on popular shows like ER, How I Met Your Mother, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and The Young and the Restless. He also had a recurring role on the sitcom The Drew Carey Show. A passionate train enthusiast, Gross has also hosted several railroad-themed documentaries for television. His steady presence in Hollywood showcases his versatility and enduring appeal, proving that his breakout role was indeed just the beginning of a long and successful journey.
Justine Bateman: From Mallory to Multi-Talent
Justine Bateman, born February 19, 1966, played Mallory Keaton, the fashion-conscious, often ditzy, but ultimately good-hearted middle child of the Keaton family. Mallory's character evolved significantly over the series, moving beyond stereotypes to reveal a surprising depth, often thanks to her relationship with Nick Moore. Her honest portrayal resonated with many viewers.
| Full Name | Date of Birth | Place of Birth | Notable Role | Spouse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Justine Tanya Bateman | February 19, 1966 | Rye, New York, USA | Mallory Keaton (Family Ties) | Mark Fluent |
After Family Ties, Justine Bateman continued to act in various television series and films. She starred in the sitcom Men Behaving Badly and made guest appearances on shows like Desperate Housewives, Arrested Development (alongside her brother Jason Bateman), and Californication. However, Bateman's career path took a fascinating turn beyond acting. As she confessed to Entertainment Weekly, "When I got Family Ties, I wasn’t even thinking about being an actress. I thought I might become a window dresser." This early inclination towards other creative pursuits manifested later in life. She became a successful writer, director, and producer. She authored two non-fiction books, "Fame: The Hijacking of Reality" (2018) and "Face: One Square Foot of Skin" (2020), both critically acclaimed for their insightful commentary on fame, aging, and societal pressures. She also directed the feature film Violet (2021), which premiered at SXSW. Bateman's journey highlights a remarkable transformation from child star to a respected multi-hyphenate in the entertainment industry.
Tina Yothers: Beyond the Youngest Keaton
Tina Yothers, born May 5, 1973, portrayed Jennifer Keaton, the youngest of the Keaton children for most of the series' run. Jennifer was often the voice of reason or the quiet observer, growing up on screen from a young girl to a teenager. Yothers brought a natural charm to the role, contributing to the show's dynamic family unit.
| Full Name | Date of Birth | Place of Birth | Notable Role | Spouse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tina Yothers | May 5, 1973 | Whittier, California, USA | Jennifer Keaton (Family Ties) | Robert Kaiser |
Following the conclusion of Family Ties, Tina Yothers largely stepped away from mainstream acting, though she did make occasional television appearances. She transitioned into a different creative field: music. Yothers formed a band called Jaded and released an album. She also participated in reality television shows, including Celebrity Fit Club in 2005, where she openly discussed her struggles with weight and body image. In recent years, Yothers has focused on her family life, raising her children, and has remained largely out of the public eye. Her journey reflects a common path for child actors who choose to prioritize personal life over continued public careers, finding fulfillment in different avenues.
Brian Bonsall: From Child Star to Rock Musician
Brian Eric Bonsall, born December 3, 1981, joined the cast of Family Ties in 1986 as Andrew "Andy" Keaton, the youngest child and the adorable addition to the family in the later seasons. Andy quickly became a fan favorite, known for his precocious remarks and endearing interactions, particularly with his older brother Alex. Bonsall's tenure on the show lasted until its conclusion in 1989.
| Full Name | Date of Birth | Place of Birth | Notable Role | Profession (Post-Acting) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brian Eric Bonsall | December 3, 1981 | Torrance, California, USA | Andrew "Andy" Keaton (Family Ties), Alexander Rozhenko (Star Trek) | Rock Musician (Guitarist for The Ataris) |
Beyond his role as Andy Keaton, Brian Bonsall is also perhaps best known for his role as Alexander Rozhenko, the son of Worf and K'Ehleyr, on Star Trek: The Next Generation. He also starred in several films, including Blank Check (1994). However, Bonsall's career path took a significant turn away from acting as he grew older. He became an American rock musician, singer, and guitarist. Bonsall is currently the guitarist for the punk rock band The Ataris, showcasing a distinct shift in his professional life. While his post-acting life has had its share of personal challenges, Bonsall has found a new identity and passion in the music world, demonstrating that the trajectory of a child star can lead to unexpected and fulfilling creative outlets.
Scott Valentine: Nick Moore's Enduring Legacy
Scott Valentine: The Enduring Charm of Nick Moore
Scott Valentine, born June 3, 1958, brought a unique flavor to Family Ties as Nick Moore, Mallory Keaton's longtime boyfriend. He moved to Los Angeles and landed a recurring role on the TV series Family Ties as Nick Moore for seasons 4 through 7. Nick was an environmental artist with a distinctive, often eccentric, personality that stood in stark contrast to the Keaton family's intellectual leanings. His catchphrase was "Hey!" and he quickly became a beloved character, known for his unconventional wisdom and deep affection for Mallory. The show often explored Nick's background, revealing that he grew up in the "bad part of town," and most of his childhood friends were "losers or criminals." His father, Joe Moore, wasn't a very involved parent, once taking Nick to the fish shanty but ignoring him. These details added layers to Nick's character, making him more than just a comedic relief.
| Full Name | Date of Birth | Place of Birth | Notable Role | Occupation (Post-Acting) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scott Valentine | June 3, 1958 | Saratoga Springs, New York, USA | Nick Moore (Family Ties) | Businessman, Actor |
Beyond Nick Moore: Valentine's Reflections
After Family Ties, Scott Valentine continued to act, appearing in various television shows and films. He starred in the short-lived sitcom To Have & to Hold and made guest appearances on series like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and The Bold and the Beautiful. However, Valentine also ventured into entrepreneurship, focusing on business interests outside of Hollywood. During an interview for Montreal radio station CJAD, Valentine reflected on his role as Nick Moore, expressing that he thought the role was "not challenging enough for the money he was receiving," humorously adding, "I'm so glad I went to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and to all the..." This sentiment, while lighthearted, suggests an actor seeking more complex roles and perhaps a different kind of fulfillment beyond the sitcom world. Despite his personal reflections, Nick Moore remains one of the most memorable supporting characters in Family Ties, a testament to Valentine's unique portrayal.
Tracy Pollan: Ellen Reed and Beyond
Tracy Pollan, born June 22, 1960, played Ellen Reed, Alex P. Keaton's first serious girlfriend on Family Ties. Her character was a kind and intelligent art student who challenged Alex's conservative views and brought out a softer side of him. While her role was recurring, it was significant, especially as it marked the beginning of a real-life romance.
| Full Name | Date of Birth | Place of Birth | Notable Role | Spouse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tracy Jo Pollan | June 22, 1960 | Long Island, New York, USA | Ellen Reed (Family Ties) | Michael J. Fox |
Tracy Pollan, after
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