Seema Khaneja MD
Updated on: October 16, 2024 5:01 pm GMT
Playing music with Michael J. Fox is not just a career highlight for Chris Martin, but a surreal experience that makes him feel like a child again. During a recent appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” Martin, the frontman of Coldplay, shared thoughts about their performance together at the 2024 Glastonbury Festival.
Memorable Moments at Glastonbury
At Glastonbury, Fox joined Coldplay on stage, surprising many fans. He played guitar for the band while they performed their song “Humankind” and participated in a moving rendition of “Fix You.” Despite being in a wheelchair due to his ongoing battle with Parkinson’s Disease, which he has faced since 1991, Fox’s spirit and passion shone through.
- Fox was a surprise guest, adding a unique touch to the event.
- Martin called Fox “our hero” during the performance.
- Fox’s presence resonated deeply with the audience and band members alike.
Back to the Future Influence
During his conversation with Fallon, Martin reminisced about how influential Fox’s role in the 1985 film “Back to the Future” was for him. “The main reason we’re in a band is because of ‘Back to the Future,’” Martin stated. He expressed how seeing Fox as Marty McFly left a lasting impression, saying, “It just feels like being seven and being in heaven.”
A Dream Come True
Martin emphasized the significance of collaborating with Fox, stating, “There are certain things for people your age and my age that are so imprinted on us in terms of what made us dream of doing this job.” This special connection made playing alongside Fox a heartfelt experience for him.
A Surreal Charity Show Experience
This Glastonbury performance wasn’t their first collaboration. In 2013, Martin and Fox performed together at a charity gala for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Martin shared the story of their first performance together, recalling how he asked Fox to play songs from “Back to the Future.”
- “The first time I played with him was at a charity show,” Martin recounted.
- During “Earth Angel,” he remembered Fox looking at his hand as if it were disappearing, echoing a famous scene from the film.
- Martin noted how this moment could be lost on younger audiences but remained iconic for many.
The Impact of Michael J. Fox
Martin admires Fox not only for his talent but also for his profound influence as an individual. “Of course, he’s so inspirational as a person,” Martin said. He emphasized how Fox continues to inspire others, especially those battling similar challenges.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
For many like Chris Martin, Michael J. Fox embodies more than just a character on screen; he represents dreams and aspirations. Their adventures on stage remind fans of the powerful impact that movies and music can have across generations. As Martin said, sharing these moments with Fox feels like a return to childhood joys, leaving a lasting legacy of inspiration and hope.
You can watch Chris Martin’s full interview on “The Tonight Show” to hear more of his thoughts and ideas.
