While similar to her ‘monosyllabic’ boyfriend, Mallory’s character was often considered somewhat of an airhead, she was originally meant to be far less ditzy. As the story goes, Justine Bateman (the actress who played Mallory) made her character appear to believe the insults thrown at her by her brother Alex to be compliments, not jabs.
While originally these disses were not intended to be received as compliments, this accidental portrayal led to the increasing characterization of Mallory as a ditz.
The Silent “J” In Michael J. Fox
Though Michael Fox may be known for his “J” middle initial, in reality, this letter doesn't actually stand for anything. While born Michael Andrew Fox, as he entered a career in acting, Fox soon realized there was already a Michael A. Fox in the Screen Actor’s Guild. Consequently, Fox decided to change his middle initial to “J” in order to stand out.
According to sources, Fox chose the "J" letter in honor of Michael J. Pollard, a legendary actor known for his role as C. W. Moss in the crime film, Bonnie and Clyde (1967), as well as a number of other leading roles in films like “Tango & Cash” (1989) and “Scrooged” (1988).
Alex Keaton’s “Spin City” Appearance
Following the end of “Family Ties,” Fox went on to act in a number of TV shows and films, and one of these included the role of Mike Flaherty on “Spin City.” Throughout his time on the show, Fox made quite a few friendly nods to his previous role as Alex. In fact, in one particular “Spin City” episode, there is mention of a conservative junior senator by the name of Alex P. Keaton.
However, despite his success as an actor on both television and film, Fox ultimately had to leave his role on "Spin City" and many others because of his worsening Parkinson’s symptoms—a disease which he was diagnosed with in 1991, at the age of 29.
Justine Bateman: From Successful Actress to Digital Guru
Though it is widely known that teens and young adults of the ‘80s and ‘90s tend not to have the best understanding of the internet, Bateman proved this stereotype is not always true. In fact, Bateman even went on to pursue a very successful career in digital technology.
Launching her digital production company in 2007, Bateman has since gone on to produce and act in a number of successful web series. She is also a partner at a content production company, as well as the head of her very own digital media production and consulting firm.
Bateman’s Career After “Family Ties”
Following her years as Mallory on “Family Ties,” Bateman has gone on to become a digital guru, the founder of her own clothing design company, and she's earned a scuba diving certification and a pilot license!
Bateman's acting career was no less impressive, as she's been nominated for an Emmy twice for her role in the famous TV show. Bateman has appeared on a number of other series, perhaps most notably on “Desperate Housewives.”