BAFTAs 2024: Viewers in tears as Michael J Fox receives standing ovation 

Virgin Radio

19 Feb 2024, 08:21

The stars were out in force at the BAFTA Film Awards in London last night (18th February), and none received a warmer reception than Michael J Fox.

The Back to the Future actor took to the stage in a wheelchair to present the Best Film award. The 62-year-old, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991, handed out the gong to Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer, which was the big winner on the night.

As Fox entered the stage, he was given a standing ovation by the likes of Barbie stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, as well as actors such as Emma Stone, Robert Downey Jr, Michael Sheen and Saltburn’s Barry Keoghan. 

Standing at the podium to present the prize, he said: “Five films were nominated in this category tonight, and all five have something in common. They are the best of what we do. No matter who you are or where you're from, these films can bring us together.

“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.”

Fans took to social media to share the love about the star’s appearance. One wrote: “I was in tears the moment Michael J Fox came on the stage 😥😥😥 THE MAN IS A LEGEND.”

Someone else said: “Michael J Fox came on stage and I started crying 😭”

One viewer 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! #michaeljfox”

Another wrote: “That standing ovation for Michael J Fox has broken me 😭😭”

Someone else added: “My eyes well up every time I see Michael J Fox. What an absolute hero that man is.”

One fan wrote: “What an icon and inspiration Michael J Fox is. Nobody quite like it and so deserving of that standing ovation”

Fox founded the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research in 2000. It has raised over £1.58 billion.

The likes of Oppenheimer, Poor Things and The Zone of Interest had great nights at the BAFTAs, which took place at the Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall in London. Find out who won what here.