30-6-2024 (LONDON) In a moment that left Glastonbury fans emotionally spellbound, Coldplay’s highly anticipated headlining set on June 29th took an unexpected turn when legendary actor Michael J. Fox graced the stage with his presence. The iconic Back to the Future star, who has been battling Parkinson’s disease since his diagnosis at the age of 29 in 1991, joined the band for an unforgettable performance, leaving the audience in a state of awe and celebration.
As Coldplay’s set neared its conclusion, the 63-year-old Fox, who had retired from acting in 2020 due to worsening symptoms of the condition, emerged on stage, guitar in hand, to participate in the band’s rendition of “Humankind” and their beloved hit “Fix You.” The sight of the beloved actor jamming alongside the celebrated musicians was a poignant and heartwarming spectacle that left the Glastonbury crowd in a whirlwind of emotions.
Fans, who had already been treated to two surprise guest appearances earlier in the evening, were utterly unprepared for the moment when Fox appeared, his presence igniting a collective outpouring of joy and admiration. Social media was flooded with emotional tributes and expressions of disbelief, as the impact of witnessing such an iconic figure defy the challenges of Parkinson’s and embrace the stage reverberated through the audience.
Music can be so fucking phenomenal sometimes ❤️????#Glastonbury2024 #Coldplay pic.twitter.com/ARZqeWtMHL
— Rory McEvoy (@rorymcevoy) June 29, 2024
One emotional viewer took to Twitter, exclaiming, “Coldplay bringing out Michael J. Fox, baaaaawling,” while another penned, “Am I crying in the middle of the night watching Coldplay gig? I might, yes.” A third fan chimed in, “Coldplay. Michael J. Fox. Tell me you didn’t cry,” as a fourth added, “Michael J. Fox getting his moment at Glastonbury with Coldplay. What a legend.”
The overwhelming response from fans echoed the sentiment that resonated during Fox’s appearance at the BAFTAs earlier this year, where he received a standing ovation for presenting the Best Film award. In his speech, the actor praised the power of cinema to bring people together, remarking, “There’s a reason why they say movies are magic, because movies can change your day, they can change your outlook, they can sometimes even change your life.”
Coldplay’s Glastonbury set marked a historic milestone, as the band became the first act to headline the iconic festival for a record-breaking fifth time, surpassing the previous record held by The Cure. With one of the largest crowds witnessed at the event and the unforgettable surprise appearance by Michael J. Fox, Coldplay’s performance etched itself into the annals of Glastonbury history, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of music fans around the world.
