Michael J. Fox honored with Presidential Medal of Freedom for Parkinson's research efforts

Actor, author and advocate Michael J. Fox has been awarded the nation's highest civilian honor.

Fox's introduction to the stage read: "Michael J. Fox is one of the most beloved actors of our time. With remarkable wit and charm, he introduced iconic characters to the center of American culture, from Alex P. Keaton to Marty McFly and more."

"With undaunted resilience and optimism, he also warms hearts and captivates audiences as a fearless advocate for those with Parkinson's disease," the intro continued. "Channeling his endearing personality to advance treatments moves us closer to a cure and reminds us of the power of American possibilities."

"Receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom is humbling, an honor I could never have anticipated," Fox said in a press release statement from MJFF. 

"I'm grateful for this recognition, which I share with the patients, families and researchers who have brought us closer than ever to ending Parkinson's disease once and for all."

Fox was diagnosed with the progressive brain disorder in 1991.

MJFF has allocated more than $2 billion to "high-impact global research programs" to speed up treatments and a cure.

More than one million Americans, including 110,000 U.S. military veterans, are estimated to live with the disease today.

As these numbers rise, studies project that Parkinson's cases will double globally by 2040. 

Alongside Fox, there were 18 additional Presidential Medal of Freedom honorees, including Jose Andres, Bono, Ash Carter, Hillary Clinton, Tim Gill, Jane Goodall, Fannie Lou Hamer, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Robert Francis Kennedy, Ralph Lauren, Lionel Messi, Bill Nye, George Romney, David Rubenstein, George Soros, George Stevens, Jr., Denzel Washington and Anna Wintour.

Fox News Digital's Ashley Hume contributed to this report.