Fox Promoted to Companion Level of Order of Canada

Michael J. Fox was promoted to the Companion level of the Order of Canada on October 2, 2026, for his tireless advocacy and unflinching honesty about living with Parkinson's disease. The announcement was made by Governor General Louise Arbour at Rideau Hall in Ottawa. Fox has been a leading voice in raising awareness and funds for research into the disease, which affects millions worldwide.

With $2.5 billion raised so far, Fox has demonstrated his commitment to helping others through his platform. His diagnosis with Parkinson's in 1998 marked a turning point in his life, but he has chosen to use his fame to shed light on the challenges faced by those living with the condition.

Arbour praised Fox's dedication and willpower, saying 'you could have used your talents solely to further your own success. Instead, you have chosen to use your skills, influence, and energy to help others.' She added that sustainable progress requires courage, imagination, and determination, citing Fox as a shining example of this.

Other notable inductees into the Order of Canada include Yusuf Altintas, a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of British Columbia; Nada Jabado, a pediatric neuro-oncology expert from McGill University; former Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz; sculptor Ruth Elsie Abernethy; and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Susanne Craig.