Crispin Glover Was Also on “Family Ties”
Like “Family Ties” actor Michael J. Fox, Crispin Glover—who played the role of Doug, a friend of Alex’s, on the show—also appeared in the blockbuster movie, “Back to the Future,” acting alongside Fox in this hit film. Beyond his roles in “Back to the Future” and “Family Ties”, Glover also went on to act in a number of other movies, including Hot Tub Time Machine, and Charlie’s Angels.
Additionally, Glover also established himself as a recognized and talented director. In 2013, he got recognition for his work by New York City’s Museum of Arts and Design. More recently, Crispin is credited with the role of Mr. World on the television series, “American Gods” (2017-2019).
Christina Applegate’s Iconic “Family Ties” Cameo
We can also add the beautiful and talented Christina Applegate to the list of star guest appearances! On "Family Ties" Applegate took on the role of Kitten, who was an addition to Jennifer’s band. Since then, Applegate has gone on to establish herself as a successful actress in Hollywood, starting with the career-changing role of Kelly Bundy on the FOX sitcom “Married…with Children".
In the world of film, Applegate’s credits include Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead, The Sweetest Thing, Anchorman, Hall Pass, and yes, even Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel. Applegate has won a number of awards and nominations, including four Emmy nominations, and an Emmy award for ‘Outstanding Guest Actress In A Comedy Series” in 2003, for her role as Amy Green in the hit NBC comedy series, “Friends.”
Even David Faustino Made an Appearance
Like Applegate, Faustino also began his career with an appearance on “Family Ties,” which, many years later, would land him a role alongside Applegate on the TV show, “Married…with Children.” During his time on “Family Ties,” Faustino played the role of little Keith Bailey—a role he secured in 1983.
Beyond “Family Ties” and “Married…with Children,” Faustino has also acted in a wide array of TV shows, including “Entourage”—in which he plays himself—, as well as the character Tater on one 2013 episode of “Modern Family”
Courteney Cox Also Appeared
Before Courtney Cox earned the prominent role as Monica on “Friends,” she actually had a recurring role on “Family Ties” from 1987 to 1989. Cox played the role of Lauren Miller, Alex’s girlfriend. Obviously, this was just the beginning of a very successful acting career.
Even after “Family Ties” and “Friends”, Cox continued to land lead roles, such as her character Jules Kiki Cobb on “Cougar Town". Recently, 54-year-old Cox has been the subject of much scrutiny, after deciding to remove her fillers and embrace herself and her aging beauty. “You have to accept getting older, and that’s something that I had a hard time doing,” said Cox in one interview.
Matthew Broderick Almost Played Alex P. Keaton
While the role of Alex P. Keaton is notably played by talented actor Michael J. Fox, the role was almost given to famous actor Matthew Broderick. However, Broderick ultimately turned down the opportunity, as he did not have any intentions of relocating to Los Angeles, California to shoot the show.
Though Fox ultimately became the center of the show, when Goldberg, the show's creator, first saw Michael J. Fox’s audition tape, he didn't feel Fox was right for the role of Alex. However, after much convincing by casting director Judith Weiner, Goldberg finally agreed to give Fox a chance.