**The Powerful Message from Michael J. Fox at the 2024 BAFTA Awards**
In a surprise appearance at the British Academy Film Awards on Sunday, Michael J. Fox, who has Parkinson’s disease, received a standing ovation. Fellow actors and audience members rose to give Fox his recognition as he was taken to the stage in a wheelchair, and the applause grew louder when he stood up to the microphone. The “Back to the Future” star presented the award for best film and delivered an impactful message about the power of movies to bring people together and change lives. He went on to give the award to Christopher Nolan and his team for “Oppenheimer,” the atom bomb epic.
Fox, who has been open about his condition, has spoken about the mental health struggles and injuries he has suffered as a result of his Parkinson’s disease. However, he has also expressed hope and gratitude, emphasizing that optimism is sustainable and finding something to be grateful for can give people something to look forward to. This message of resilience and hope in the face of adversity has inspired many.
This was a significant moment for Fox, especially as the BAFTA event also recognized the film “Still,” which depicts the actor’s journey with Parkinson’s disease and was up for the best documentary.
