Christopher Lloyd and Michael J. Fox weren’t always as close as they are now.
In his memoir In My Own Time, Lloyd revealed that their professional relationship only blossomed into a true friendship after the Back to the Future trilogy ended.
“It would take two more Back to the Future movies before Michael and I truly got to know each other and become friends. But it would come,” Lloyd, 87, wrote.
READ MORE: Michael J. Fox opens up about his bond with Christopher Lloyd
The pair first met while filming the first Back to the Future movie in 1985. Fox famously replaced Eric Stoltz as Marty McFly six weeks into production, forcing Lloyd to reshoot scenes as Doc Brown. The actor admitted he was initially too preoccupied with perfecting the retakes to focus on building a connection with his new co-star.
“I was extremely grateful that the other actor in this case was Michael, because he brought his own energy and that sparked me to get over my own anxieties,” Lloyd shared.
Despite their iconic on-screen partnership, the costars largely kept to themselves between takes. Lloyd also acknowledged that Fox was juggling Back to the Future with his television series Family Ties, leaving him under considerable pressure. Coupled with their age gap, these factors left little room for a friendship to form.
However, the actors have since developed a close bond, frequently celebrating each other.
On Lloyd’s 88th birthday on October 22, Fox wrote on Instagram, “Great Scott you’re 88! That’s some serious s—, love you!” Lloyd replied, “We truly are timeless. Love you friend”.
READ MORE: Michael J. Fox pays heartfelt tribute to Christopher Lloyd on 88th birthday
