Michael J. Fox to Receive Bob Hope Humanitarian Award at 2026 Emmy Awards
On September 14, 2026, the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards will honor Michael J. Fox with the Television Academy’s Bob Hope Humanitarian Award. The ceremony, staged at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles, will be broadcast live on NBC and streamed on Peacock.
The Bob Hope Humanitarian Award, launched in 2002 by the Television Academy’s Board of Governors, recognizes a lifetime of philanthropy, activism and a commitment to the greater good. It is one of the Academy’s most prestigious honors, bestowed on individuals whose work has had a lasting impact on society.
Fox’s selection reflects his decades of advocacy for Parkinson’s disease research. He publicly disclosed his diagnosis of young‑onset Parkinson’s disease in 1998 and founded The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in 2000. According to a foundation press release, the organization has become the world’s largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson’s research, supporting more than $3 billion in research programs that accelerate scientific breakthroughs and improve the lives of millions worldwide.
The Television Academy’s chair, Cris Abrego, said, “Michael J. Fox is one of television’s most beloved and enduring performers whose work has left an indelible mark on generations of audiences. The Television Academy is proud to honor him for his extraordinary leadership in advancing Parkinson’s research, transforming public awareness and inspiring global support through The Michael J. Fox Foundation.” Abrego added that Fox exemplifies compassion, courage and service.
Beyond his activism, Fox is a five‑time Emmy winner. He rose to prominence as Alex P. Keaton on the NBC sitcom Family Ties (1982‑1989) and is best known for his role as Marty McFly in the Back to the Future film trilogy (1985‑1990). His career has spanned film, television and voice work, earning him multiple awards for his performances.
The 78th Emmy Awards will be hosted by Law & Order: Special Victims Unit actress Mariska Hargitay. Hargitay will present the ceremony live from the Peacock Theater, beginning at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. The event will be televised on NBC and streamed on Peacock.
The award ceremony will spotlight Fox’s contributions to both the entertainment industry and public health. The Television Academy’s announcement confirms that the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award will be presented to Fox during the live broadcast, marking a significant moment for the actor and the Parkinson’s research community.
