Michael J. Fox reveals why he kept Parkinson’s diagnosis secret during Emmys speech

Legendary American actor Michael J. Fox was honoured at the 2026 Emmy Awards, where he delivered an emotional speech about his Parkinson’s diagnosis and the reason he initially kept his condition private.

Legendary American actor Michael J. Fox was honoured at the 2026 Emmy Awards, where he delivered an emotional speech about his Parkinson’s diagnosis and the reason he initially kept his condition private.

The Teen Wolf star appeared on stage in a wheelchair at the ceremony on Monday, September 14, prompting an emotional reaction from several celebrities in attendance.

Fox’s former co-stars and fellow stars, including his Shrinking co-star Harrison Ford and Nicole Kidman, were visibly moved as he delivered his heartfelt speech.

After receiving the honour, Fox reflected on being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 29 in 1991 and explained why he initially kept his health struggles away from the public eye.

“Thank you to everyone involved with the Television Academy for this amazing, humbling honour,” Fox said.

He then paid tribute to the late entertainer Bob Hope, explaining the special place Hope held in his family.

“My parents were born during the Great Depression,” Fox said. “To them, Bob was more than an entertainer. He was a selfless champion of soldiers and military families like mine for decades.”

Fox recalled how Hope would spend Christmases, Thanksgivings and other holidays supporting military families rather than simply celebrating with his own family.

The actor then opened up about his decision to keep his Parkinson’s diagnosis private when he was first diagnosed.

“Initially, I kept my Parkinson’s diagnosis a secret. I worried it would affect my work and relationships with audiences,” Fox said.

He later thanked his fans for standing by him throughout his health struggles.

“I was stunned by the support from all of you, so uplifted, and I hadn’t lost what I do,” he said.

Fox concluded his emotional speech by thanking his wife, Tracy Pollan, and their four children for their unwavering support.

He expressed his gratitude to them “for their sacrifices, for their patience, and for their love,” before also thanking his parents, sisters and brother.

Fox’s appearance at the Emmys offered an emotional reminder of his decades-long career and his continued connection with audiences despite his battle with Parkinson’s disease.