Celine Dion has made few public appearances since revealing in 2022 that she was diagnosed with stiff-person syndrome, a rare neurological disorder. She appeared in New York City on Monday night for the premiere of her long-awaited Prime Video documentary, “I Am:Celine Dion,” which chronicles her struggle with the condition.
“This is by far the biggest audience I’ve had in years,” Dion said in a speech to guests including Gayle King and Laverne Cox at the premiere, held at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall. “I’m so proud to be here tonight to share this film with you,” she added.
Dion, who has not performed since 2020, gave an emotional 10-minute speech before the film began, thanking the documentary's director, Irene Taylor Brodsky, and her neurologist, Dr. Amanda Pique, for "solving the mystery" of her health and helping her cope with her condition. "She replaced my fear with hope," Dion said of her doctor. She also thanked her 23-year-old son, René-Charles, who was standing on stage nearby, and her 13-year-old twins, Nelson and Eddy, for their daily love and support.
As she thanked her fans, Dion began to cry. "Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for being a part of my journey. This film is my love letter to each and every one of you. I hope to see you again soon," she concluded, to standing ovations and thunderous applause.