family ties cast

The Cast of ‘Family Ties’: Where Are They Now?

By: Matt

“Family Ties” is an award-winning show that aired from 1982 to 1989. Its premise revolved around social changes in the United States, which seems all too relevant today. But instead of the family dynamics in other shows, “Family Ties” flipped the script! It’s about a family of former hippie liberal parents and their children, including the conservative aspiring millionaire Alex.

A show like this today would likely be an epicenter of controversy, but “Family Ties” manages to depict cultural differences in America with humor. The show is known for its comedy and focus on issues plaguing everyday life in the ’80s. For that reason, it’s an ’80s sitcom classic, feeling almost like a time capsule of that era.

“Family Ties” also has a great cast that sells the story. The show launched many successful, decade-spanning careers. But what is the cast of “Family Ties” up to today?

Michael J. Fox – Alex P. Keaton

Alex P Keaton

Michael J. Fox was the breakout star of “Family Ties,” starring as the eldest child with an unwavering goal of being rich and successful. Initially, Alex’s character wasn’t supposed to be the star. However, Fox’s portrayal was a huge hit, and the actor used the success to start a hugely successful career.

During the run of “Family Ties,” Fox starred in the ’80s classic “Back to the Future” (1985). He starred in the subsequent sequels and many other huge films of the decade, including “Wolfman” (1985), “The Secret of My Success (1987), “The American President” (1995) and more. He also appeared in several TV shows, including a starring role on “Spin City” (1996-2002) and guest spots on shows like “Scrubs” (2001-2010) and “Boston Legal” (2004-2008).

Fox retired from acting in 2020 due to complications from Parkinson’s Disease. He’s since become an advocate for Parkinson’s Disease research, wrote a memoir, and appeared in many documentaries.

Justine Bateman – Mallory Keaton

Mallory Keaton

Justine Bateman played material girl Mallory. She’s the sister of fellow actor Jason Bateman, even appearing in a guest spot for his show “Arrested Development” (2003-2006). After “Family Ties,” Bateman appeared in many film and TV roles. Her most notable include guest appearances on “Desperate Housewives” (2004-2012) and “Californication” (2007-2014).

Bateman also has credits behind the camera, directing the film “Violet” (2021). She’s since married and had two children.

Tina Yothers – Jennifer Keaton

Tina Yothers played the third child in “Family Ties,” Jennifer, who is known as an athletic tomboy. Yothers appeared in many television films throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Some of her most notable works include the role of Tonya Harding in “Spunk” (1993) and “Crash Course” (1988).

Yothers also appeared in several reality shows in the 2000s.

Brian Bonsall – Andy Keaton

Andy Keaton

Brian Bonsall played Andy, the baby of the family. His character entered the scene in season three. Bosnall has a limited acting repertoire but has appeared in several made-for-TV movies and shows. He largely stepped away from acting in favor of music.

He formed the band Late Bloomers in 1998. Later, he toured with The Ataris. He is currently a member of Sunset Silhouette.

Meredith Baxter – Elyse Keaton

Meredith Baxter was already an accomplished actress before stepping on the “Family Ties” set. Before the show, she was known for starring in “Bridget Loves Bernie” (1972-1973). However, “Family Ties” made her a household name.

Since the show wrapped, Baxter appeared in many film and TV projects. She received an Emmy nod for her performance in “A Woman Scorned: The Betty Broderick Story” (1992). She also appeared on shows like “Spin City” (1996-2002), “7th Heaven” (1996-2006), “Finding Carter” (2014-2015) and so much more.

Michael Gross – Steven Keaton

Steven Keaton

Michael Gross played the Keaton family’s patriarch, a role that would be one of his most recognizable. After “Family Ties” ended, he became incredibly popular due to his performance as Burt Gummer in the “Tremors” franchise. He’s the only actor in all “Tremors” films and shows.

Gross has a large acting profile and appears on many TV shows. He had multi-episode arcs on “ER” (1994-2009), “The Drew Carrey Show” (1995-2004), “The Young and the Restless” (1973-Present), “Grace & Frankie” (2015-2022) and more.

Scott Valentine – Nick Moore

Scott Valentine had a recurring role on “Family Ties” as Mallory’s boyfriend from seasons four to seven. After the show, he was involved in three spinoffs for the Nick character. One got to pilot, but it didn’t get picked up for a full-season order.

Valentine had guest roles in many TV projects, including “JAG” (1995-2005) and “CSI: NY” (2004-2013). The actor also started a career in voice acting, lending his voice to many animated projects.

Tracy Pollman – Ellen Reed

Ellen Reed family ties

Tracy Pollman played Alex’s love interest during the show’s fourth season. Although she only appeared in 13 episodes, she met her future husband on set, Michael J. Fox. The two married in 1988 and are still together. They have four children.

Since the show, Pollman has appeared on shows like “Spin City” (1996-2002), “Medium” (2005-2009), and “Law & Order: Criminal Intent” (2001-2011).

The Legacy of “Family Ties”

While the show ended in 1989, “Family Ties” left behind a long-lasting legacy. Not only did it lead to very successful careers for its main cast, but many are also rediscovering the show today. Despite being several decades old, the off-beat writing and humor hold up. More importantly, the story of a family who still love each other despite their differences continues to be powerful.

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