Michael J. Fox receives Canada's highest Order of Canada rank as 51 are honoured

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published October 2, 2026

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Rideau Hall in Ottawa will host an Order of Canada ceremony on Friday, October 2, honouring 51 individuals, including Canadian actor and advocate Michael J. Fox, who will receive the insignia of Companion of the Order of Canada, the Order’s highest level. Governor General Louise Arbour will preside over the ceremony beginning at 11 a.m.

Fox is the only Companion being invested at Friday’s ceremony, which also includes 11 Officers and 39 Members recognized for contributions across fields including science, medicine, engineering, culture, journalism and public service.

Friday’s ceremony follows Fox’s earlier promotion within the Order. He was awarded the Companion designation in April 2026 and was included among the appointments announced in June. Fox had previously been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2010 and was formally invested in May 2011.

His promotion recognizes both his entertainment career and his international advocacy for Parkinson’s research. The Governor General’s citation highlights his work through his foundation, writing and public speaking, as well as the acclaimed 2023 documentary Still.

The Order of Canada has three levels — Member, Officer and Companion — and existing members may be promoted to a higher level in recognition of continued exceptional contributions.