Michael J. Fox received one of the night’s biggest ovations at the Emmys as he accepted the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award for his work supporting Parkinson’s research and advocacy.
Fox addressed the audience from the stage and reflected on the personal journey that followed his Parkinson’s diagnosis. His remarks prompted an emotional response from the crowd, which stood to applaud him.
Michael J. Fox reflects on his Parkinson’s journey at the Emmys
The Emmys honored Fox for his work beyond acting, particularly his efforts to advance awareness and research surrounding Parkinson’s disease.
According to TMZ, Fox has lived with the condition since the 1990s. During his acceptance speech, he reflected on why he initially chose to keep his diagnosis private.
He also discussed the support he received after opening up about his condition and explained why that encouragement had meant so much to him over the years.
The audience responded by giving Fox a standing ovation.
The emotional reaction continued as he finished his remarks and left the stage. Attendees once again rose to recognize his work and the impact of his advocacy.
Fox accepted the award while using a wheelchair.
The Bob Hope Humanitarian Award recognizes individuals whose work extends beyond entertainment and makes a broader humanitarian impact.
Fox became only the sixth person to receive the honor since the Emmys introduced it in 2002.
His recognition centered on his longtime efforts related to Parkinson’s disease. Fox has spent years drawing attention to the condition while supporting research aimed at improving understanding of it.
The moment also gave him an opportunity to speak personally about a health journey he once kept away from the public.
Rather than focus only on the award itself, Fox used his time onstage to acknowledge the people who supported him after his diagnosis became public.
The audience’s response turned the presentation into one of the ceremony’s most emotional moments, with Fox receiving standing ovations during and after his speech.
