Last night at the Baftas, Hollywood icon Michael J. Fox made a surprise appearance to present the Best Film award. The Back to the Future star, who rarely makes public appearances, received a standing ovation from the audience and was described as a “true legend of cinema” by Bafta host David Tennant.
This was Fox’s first appearance at the UK awards ceremony in over 30 years. He was accompanied by his wife of 36 years, actress Tracy Pollan.
Fox, who founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in 2000, has been battling Parkinson’s disease for the past 30 years.
The condition, which affects around 128,000 people in England, is degenerative and incurable, causing parts of the brain to become progressively damaged. In a documentary released last year, titled “Still: A Michael J Fox Movie,” the actor gives viewers a glimpse into his daily life living with Parkinson’s.
Fox reveals that he wakes up every morning to the challenge of his condition, constantly taking medication to help manage his symptoms.
He struggles with balance and coordination, and often falls over, sometimes resulting in serious injuries. However, the 62-year-old admits that the disease has changed him for the better in some ways. He has become a more patient, grateful, and optimistic person.
Fox’s positive attitude has inspired many fellow Parkinson’s sufferers and has even raised over £1.6 billion for research through his foundation. He credits much of his longevity to his wife Tracy, whom he married in 1988. “If you pity me,” Fox says, “it’s never going to get to me. I’m not pathetic… I’m a tough son of a bitch. I’m a cockroach and I’ve been through a lot of stuff.”
Despite his struggles, Fox continues to make the best of his life. He has written four books since his diagnosis, two of which have “optimism” in the title. He has also become a vocal advocate for Parkinson’s research.
In an interview last November, Fox admitted that his once fierce optimism has been challenged, but he remains determined not to become an object of pity. “I love my mind and the place it takes me,” he says, “and I just don’t want that to get cut short.”
One thing is for sure – Michael J Fox is a true survivor. From being bullied as a child for being short and looking younger than his age, to becoming a beloved Hollywood star, to now battling Parkinson’s, he has faced and overcome many challenges. His surprise appearance at last night’s Baftas is a testament to his resilience and enduring legacy in the film industry.
