Michael J. Fox Fans Say He's 'Looking Fresh' as He Accepts Major Honor: 'Loved by Millions'

Michael J. Fox recently stepped out to accept a major honor, and footage from the event has people dubbing him a "hero."

The Back to the Future star was recognized for his efforts in advancing Parkinson's research through his philanthropic organization, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, as President Joe Biden administered the Presidential Medals of Freedom to this year's recipients.

The Family Ties actor, himself, was diagnosed with the medical condition—a chronic brain disorder that causes movement problems, mental health issues, and other health concerns—in 1991 at the age of 29. He has since made it his life's work to find a cure for Parkinson's disease and improve patients' quality of life.

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During the ceremony, which took place in the East Room of the White House on Jan. 4, 2025, in Washington, D.C., Fox was joined by his family as he accepted the award, with the group of six joyfully posing together afterward.

In photos shared via social media on Monday, Jan. 6, the 63-year-old can be seen smiling as he was bestowed with the honor by President Biden, as well as having a sweet exchange with fellow recipient, Bono, and standing for a solo photo, with honorees Magic Johnson and Dr. Jane Goodall seated just behind him.

"On behalf of the million or so people living with Parkinson's, and the millions more who love them, I am proud and honored to accept the Medal of Freedom from President Biden," the Instagram upload read.

He continued: "No doubt I get the most attention in the PD community, but this is our fight and support and recognition on this level is a great boost. I still believe with all my heart we will eliminate Parkinson's disease and all who have joined in the fight will have played a part in the victory. Thank you. With Hope and Gratitude, Michael J. Fox."

Fans rushed into the comments section of the post to show support for the Teen Wolf star.

"♥️ You are a hero …. And more. Congratulations. With love," Selma Blair wrote, while his former co-star, Christopher Lloyd, added, "You deserve it, my friend!"

"The coolest Mike!!! ❤️," Ali Wentworth dropped.

"An incredible honor for an incredible leader. We are proud to stand with you, united in our mission to end PD 🧡," the official account of his organization included.

"You are a legend," one fan said, with another noticing he was "looking fresh!" for the special occasion, and someone else insisted he's "loved by millions."

"There is no person on earth more deserving of this honor!! Wholehearted congrats! ♥️," another sweet comment read.

Other recipients of the nation's highest civilian honor this year, which were first announced in May 2024, included Hillary Clinton, Anna Wintour, Bill Nye, Jose Andres, Tim Gill, Ralph Lauren, Mitt Romney, Alex Soro and more.

Next: Fans Adore Michael J. Fox and Wife Tracy Pollan's Rare Family Photo From "Epic Night" Out