Emotional moment at the Emmys: Michael J. Fox speaks openly about Parkinson’s

Michael J. Fox was honored with the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award at the 2026 Emmy Awards ceremony, for his long humanitarian work and his contribution to supporting Parkinson’s disease research. The award, presented by the Television Academy and the Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation, recognizes television industry personalities who have made a significant contribution to society through their philanthropic work.

Fox attended Monday evening’s ceremony together with his wife, Tracy Pollan. It was their first appearance at the Emmy ceremony in 13 years.

The actor was greeted with long applause and a standing ovation as he took the stage, where he spoke openly about his battle with Parkinson’s.

Fox was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s in 1991, when he was just 29, but decided to make the diagnosis public only in 1998.

“At first I kept the Parkinson’s diagnosis secret. I was afraid it would affect my work and my relationship with the public,” he said during his speech.

The actor said the reaction and support he received after going public with the diagnosis helped him continue his career.

“I was surprised by the support I received. It was so inspiring. It made me feel like I could keep doing this and that I hadn’t lost what I do,” Fox said.

During his speech, he also spoke about his foundation and efforts to find a cure for Parkinson’s, saying they are “close” to achieving it.