TODAY’S PAPER | June 22, 2026 | EPAPER

'The Princess Diaries' star Julie Andrews makes rare appearance to speak out on ‘devastating’ Parkinson’s disease

Julie Andrews made a rare appearance to support Parkinson’s disease research and awareness efforts


Pop Culture & Art May 26, 2026 1 min read
Photo: AFP

Julie Andrews made a rare public appearance in a video message supporting efforts to fight Parkinson’s disease, calling the condition “devastating” while addressing attendees at the seventh World Parkinson’s Congress.

The beloved actress appeared in a video shared by the World Parkinson Coalition, where she encouraged continued research and support for those affected by the disease.

“Your participation is invaluable as we seek to find a cure to this terrible disease,” Andrews said in the clip. “I know well how devastating it can be.”

The 90-year-old star ended her message on a hopeful note, urging people to remain committed to finding a cure and becoming “a beacon of light” in the fight against Parkinson’s.

The appearance marked one of Andrews’ rare returns to the spotlight in recent years. The Oscar-winning actress became a global icon through films like Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music, later winning over a new generation of fans with The Princess Diaries franchise and her narration work on Bridgerton.

Her emotional message quickly resonated with fans online, many of whom praised the legendary actress for using her voice to support Parkinson’s awareness and research.

COMMENTS (2)

william smith | 3 weeks ago | Reply Personal Experience with Parkinson s Disease Management My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson s disease at the age of 49. His symptoms included a stooped posture tremors reduced movement of his right arm and a persistent pulsating sensation throughout his body. He was initially prescribed Sinemet and later transitioned to Sifrol under medical supervision. During this period he was also diagnosed with dementia and began experiencing hallucinations and episodes of confusion. After consulting with his healthcare provider adjustments were made to his treatment plan. We subsequently incorporated a natural herbal supplement obtained from Health Med Lab Herbal Centre as a complementary approach to his ongoing care. Over the following weeks we observed noticeable improvements in his overall well-being and a reduction in several of his symptoms. Today at nearly 51 years of age he continues to experience a significantly improved quality of life and remains active in his daily activities. This account reflects our personal experience and should not be interpreted as medical advice or as evidence of a cure for Parkinson s disease. Individuals should consult qualified healthcare professionals before making any changes to their treatment plans. Support Contact Email healthmedlab@gmail.com
susan baker | 3 weeks ago | Reply My husband was diagnosed of Parkinsons disease 2 years ago when he was 49. He had a stooped posture tremors right arm does not move and also a pulsating feeling in his body. He was placed on Senemet for 8 months and then Sifrol was introduced and replaced the Senemet during this time span he was also diagnosed with dementia. He started having hallucinations lost touch with reality. Suspecting it was the medication I took him off the Siferol with the doctor s knowledge and started him on PD-5 natural herbal formula we ordered from AKNNI HERBAL CENTRE his symptoms totally declined over a 3 weeks use of the AKANNI HERBAL Parkinson s disease natural herbal formula. He is now almost 51 and doing very well the disease is totally reversed Visit w w w.aknniherbscentre .com
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