Michael J Fox Makes Surprise Appearance at BAFTA Film Awards, Gets Standing Ovation from A-List Celebrities
A-list celebrities rose to their feet in applause on Sunday night as movie icon Michael J.Fox made a surprise appearance at the 2024 BAFTA Awards in London. ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images

The iconic "Back To The Future" star, Michael J Fox, living with Parkinson's disease, delivered a surprise appearance at the Bafta Awards 2024, where he presented the coveted best film award, according to BBC.

The 62-year-old actor, diagnosed with Parkinson's in the 1990s, made a powerful statement by standing up at the podium despite coming onstage in a wheelchair.

Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer" took home the prestigious award.

Fox's resilient spirit and unexpected appearance garnered a heartfelt standing ovation from the audience, with social media buzzing with emotional responses from viewers who were moved to tears witnessing the actor's strength on stage.

During the BAFTA Film Awards at the Royal Festival Hall in London, host David Tennant introduced Canadian-American actor Michael J Fox as a "true legend of cinema."

Fox, presenting the nominees for best film, praised cinema as "magic" that can "change your life," emphasizing the exceptional quality of the nominated films.

"Five films were nominated in this category tonight, and all five have something in common. They are the best of what we do," Fox said.

Michael J Fox and Wife at BAFTA Film Awards

Attending the ceremony with his wife, Tracy Pollan, whom he married in 1988, the couple graced the red carpet as a perfect match, ET Online reports.

Fox opted for a relaxed black suit and black shirt, while Pollan wore an elegant long white short-sleeve dress adorned with silver embellishments.

During the "A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To Cure Parkinson's" Gala in November, Fox openly discussed his Parkinson's diagnosis, describing it as a "gift" that refocused his priorities.

"It clears the deck of all the BS," Fox said.

He emphasized the clarity it brought by eliminating unnecessary aspects of life, allowing him to appreciate the importance of family, health, career, and his philanthropic endeavors through The Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Despite the challenges, he expressed gratitude for his extraordinary family and life.

Michael J Fox's Journey with Parkinson's

Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder, causes involuntary movements, stiffness, and coordination difficulties, KXLH noted.

Fox, a five-time Emmy Award winner, has shared how the symptoms affected his life and career.

His struggles with depression and denial, hidden for seven years after the diagnosis, were revealed in his 2020 book "No Time Like the Future: An Optimist Considers Mortality" and the documentary "Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie."

The actor faced challenges, turning to dopamine pills and alcohol to conceal his symptoms and fears.

Seeking help, he established The Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2000, which has since raised $2 billion for Parkinson's disease research.

Fox retired from acting in 2020 due to worsening symptoms, including falls and difficulties with memorization.

Despite these challenges, Fox remains positive, emphasizing gratitude and optimism as sustainable forces.

In an interview, he acknowledged the difficulties faced by himself and others but highlighted the importance of finding gratitude to look forward to the future.

Michael J Fox's inspirational journey continues to inspire and raise awareness about Parkinson's disease.

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Michael J. Fox receives standing ovation as presenter for Best Film | BAFTA Film Awards 2024 - From BBC