Christina Applegate just made a surprise appearance at the Emmys in what's being described as the most powerful and moving moment of the evening.
The Dead to Me actor, 52, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) while filming the comedy series in 2021, choosing to limit her public appearances since. But she was back in the spotlight on Monday night, much to the delight of fans.
Together with Ayo Edebiri (The Bear), she graced the Emmys stage to present the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
Applegate, who was nominated for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series, received a standing ovation from the star-studded crowd, not least because of the jokes she landed during her speech.
"Thank you so much," she told the roaring audience. "Oh my god, you're totally shaming me with disability by standing up. It's fine… Body not by Ozempic. OK, let's go."
"We don't have to applaud every time I do something," added a tearful Applegate, while the clapping continued.
The emotion also swept up viewers watching at home, with many rushing to X (formerly Twitter) to praise the star.
"Crying my eyes out watching Christina Applegate on the Emmys. SHE'S KILLING IT," wrote one fan.
"Omg Christina Applegate is a treasure and I’m already crying," a second penned, with another adding: "I all out sobbed when I saw that reception. It's so great to see so much support for a fellow MS Warrior."
The walking stick Applegate chose for her appearance also sent an important message, as the actor appeared to use a stick from her recent collaboration with Neo Walk, which saw the creation of a special-edition walking stick (with 5% of sales going to charities). The stylish design shows a DNA strand, which "symbolizes the invisible differences people have with chronic illness," Neo Walk founder Lyndsay Watterson told People.
