Michael J Fox made an emotional appearance at the BAFTAs, which left viewers in tears. The “Back To The Future” star, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991, came on stage in a wheelchair but insisted on standing up as he presented the prize for Best Film to Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer.” The event took place at London’s Royal Festival Hall in the Southbank Centre.
As Fox presented the award, he spoke about film bringing people together, “no matter who you are or where you’re from.” He added, “There’s a reason why they say movies are magic because movies can change your day. It can change your outlook. Sometimes it can change your life.”
His appearance prompted an emotional response on social media with viewers sharing that they were in tears. One viewer wrote, “Seeing Michael J. Fox on stage at the BAFTA Awards has had me in floods of tears after my dad sadly lost his battle with Parkinson’s. Michael, you are a legend! Thank you.” Another added, “It’s gotta be said, at 11 years old he was my movie hero. I’m nearly 50 and after seeing him at the BAFTA’s tonight. He’s every bit the hero I remember him to be. What a legend!”
Elsewhere on the night, “Oppenheimer” clocked up a further six awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor for Cillian Murphy. “Poor Things” came in second, with a total of five wins. Samantha Morton was also awarded the BAFTA Fellowship Award, while the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award was handed out to June Givanni, a Guyanese-born, London-based film curator, who has long supported and platformed African cinema.
Fox’s appearance came after he recently explained why he doesn’t fear death in light of his long term struggle with Parkinson’s disease. When asked about if he feared for his own life, he replied, “One day I’ll run out of gas. One day I’ll just say, ‘It’s not going to happen. I’m not going out today.’ If that comes, I’ll allow myself that. I’m 62 years old. Certainly, if I were to pass away tomorrow, it would be premature, but it wouldn’t be unheard of. And so, no, I don’t fear that.”
Read the full article on NME here: Read More