Michael J. Fox received a standing ovation from Hollywood’s biggest stars at the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) on Sunday, February 18, 2024, as he took to the stage in a wheelchair to present Best Film, the “Oppenheimer”.

The actor, after appearing on stage in a wheelchair, received an extremely warm welcome from Hollywood stars including Margot Robbie, Bradley Cooper and Barry Keoghan, who were in attendance at London’s Royal Festival Hall.

The legendary 80s movie star was visibly moved by the reaction as he took to the podium to reveal the nominees and the eventual winner.

The film “Oppenheimer” turned out to be the big “winner” of the night, winning seven awards, including the awards for best picture, supporting actor for Robert Downey Jr. and director for Christopher Nolan.

Presenting the award, he said: “Five films were nominated in this category and all five have something in common. It’s the best of what we do. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from, these movies can bring us together.

There’s a reason they say movies are magic, because movies can change your day. They can change your perspective. Sometimes they can change your life”he added.

The actor was just 29 years old when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. In 2023, the star released a documentary on Apple TV+ about his career and life with the disease, which earned him a BAFTA nomination. Although Michael J Fox presented the final award of the night, he was also “in attendance”, as his documentary ‘Still: A Michael J Fox Story’ received a documentary award.

Speaking to the BBC on the occasion of the documentary’s nomination, Michael said: “I’d say it’s a gift.”