Glastonbury fans 'sobbing' as Michael J Fox makes surprise appearance in Coldplay performance

Chris Martin and Michael J Fox

The actor joined the band on stage

BBC
Olivia Gantzer

By Olivia Gantzer


Published: 30/06/2024

- 16:14

The Back to the Future legend left fans emotional as he took to the stage during the band's signature song

Glastonbury Festival has seen legends from across the world of music descend on Worthy Farm, Somerset, this weekend - but iconic actor Michael J Fox made an unexpected appearance on Saturday night.

The Back to the Future actor, 63, has retired from acting but remains in the public eye and continues to raise awareness of Parkinson's, which he has suffered from since 1991.


The actor joined Coldplay during the band's headlining set, as front man Chris Martin announced: "With his Chuck Berry riff and the way he punched Biff: ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Michael J. Fox."

The band went on to perform Humankind, and as they got to one of their iconic tunes Fix You, Fox strummed on a guitar.

Remaining in a wheelchair for some of the show, Fox left fans emotional as they resonated with Martin's tribute to the Canada-born star.

The 47-year-old singer credited Fox with his success, stating: "The main reason we’re in a band is because of Back to the Future, so thank you to Michael, our hero."

The band made history at the festival, with their latest set the fifth time they've headlined the event.

Fans were moved by Fox's involvement, with many flooding social media with applause to the actor. Taking to X, one wrote: "Ironically Michael J Fox was one of the biggest reasons I picked up a guitar. When I saw him playing Chuck Berry on Back to the Future it was the first time I'd heard that iconic intro. I found out where it originated, and thus, my journey started. Hard to not get a little misty."

"This song always gets me but my mom having Parkinson’s and seeing Michael J Fox out there has me sobbing like a baby," another shared.

Someone else admitted: "It’s tough seeing him in a wheelchair. But I’m glad he’s making the best of it."

Michael J Fox and Chris Martin

Fans were left emotional by the touching performance

BBC

"In case you don’t know, Michael J. Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson’s causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. This is a big thing for him!" another fan pointed out.

"Michael J Fox rocking out with Coldplay. So awesome," a fifth enthused, while another penned: "Michael J Fox is a legend." (sic)

Elsewhere at the UK's biggest festival, another 80s legend also got people talking as Cyndi Lauper performed her most iconic hits.

Unfortunately, it seems the singer faced a mass walk out as she belted out her signature tune, Girls Just Want To Have Fun.

Chris Martin and Michael J Fox

Fans were delighted as the iconic actor joined Coldplay on stage

BBC

It didn't go unnoticed by fans, many of whom took to social media to report on the performance, with some seeming worried about the True Colours singer.

The True Colours singer seemed to be facing some sound issues on stage which affected her show, with plenty of festival-goers defending her performance.

Fox was spotted earlier this week in London as he made a rare public appearance in the capital. In pictures obtained by The Mirror, he could be seen chatting with fans close to the luxury hotel.

It comes just months after his emotional speech at the 2024 BAFTAs, in which he presented the award for Best Film.

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