Buoyed by family and Christopher Lloyd, Michael J Fox gets honorary Oscar at 13th Annual Governors Awards
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Michael J Fox, who recently announced his retirement from acting in 2020 due to Parkinson's disease, received an honorary Oscar at the 13th Annual Governors Awards, for his advocacy work that has raised $1.5B for research into the disease, on Saturday, November 19.
The 61-year-old veteran actor was supported by his beloved family, and ‘Back To The Future co-star' Christopher Lloyd as he accepted the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, which is given to an individual "whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the industry." The ‘Spin City' star was diagnosed with the disease at age of 29 in 1991. He later curtailed his acting career and founded the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research in 2000.
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For the star-studded event, Fox opted for a classic yet sophisticated look. He looked dapper in a black suit which he styled with a white dress shirt and black tie. Fox complimented his ensemble with a pair of classy black sneakers. The veteran was accompanied by his gorgeous wife Tracy Pollan, whom he married in 1988. Looking stunning as always, Pollan donned a long-sleeved black sequin gown with a long hem that touched the ground. Accessorizing her look with dangly, silver earrings along with a thin, rhinestone necklace, the actress kept her blonde hair parted in the middle with a stylish updo.
Fox’s four children, Sam, 33, twins Aquinnah and Schulyer, both 27, and Esme, 21, were also present at the event to cheer for their marvelous dad. Fox's dear close friend Woody Harrelson presented the award. The two stars are not only good friends but were also co-stars in 'Doc Hollywood'.
"It is humbling in the deepest way to stand here and accept your kindness," the actor said on stage, where the creme de la creme of Hollywood, including Tom Hanks and Jennifer Lawrence, gave him a standing ovation, according to Reuters. Fox said the hardest part about his diagnosis was "grappling with the uncertainty" and that he had kept his diagnosis private for years because, "I didn't know if an audience could laugh if they knew I was struggling."
Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system and the parts of the body controlled by the nerves. Symptoms start slowly. The first symptom may be a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand.
The ‘Family Ties’ star, who charmed the audience with his acting performance, had never been even nominated for Oscars but his humanitarian work has left an indelible mark on the industry. "Michael J Fox’s tireless advocacy of research on Parkinson’s disease alongside his boundless optimism exemplifies the impact of one person in changing the future for millions," Academy President David Rubin stated according to Deadline.