Actor Danny Glover has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, sharing the news during a pre-recorded interview with Lester Holt that aired Wednesday on the “Today” show.
The 79-year-old said he received the diagnosis not long after accepting an honorary Oscar in 2022. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Glover said he has come to terms with the diagnosis.
“I could live with it, in a sense” he said, adding that he knows life will change as the disease progresses.
Glover also praised his family for their unwavering support throughout his journey.
His daughter, Mandisa Glover, said it was important for her father to share the news himself rather than have others speak for him. She explained that she didn’t want to keep telling people everything was fine when that wasn’t the full truth.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It occurs when abnormal protein deposits build up in the brain, damaging and killing brain cells over time and causing the brain to shrink.
More than 6.9 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, with most cases occurring in people 75 and older. Worldwide, an estimated 60% to 70% of people with dementia have Alzheimer’s disease.
Early symptoms often include forgetting recent conversations or events. As the disease progresses, memory loss becomes more severe and people may have trouble thinking clearly, making decisions, solving problems, completing everyday tasks, recognizing loved ones, and finding the right words. Some also experience personality and behavior changes, including depression, mood swings, social withdrawal, sleep disturbances, wandering, and confusion.
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but medications may help manage symptoms or slow cognitive decline in some people. Support programs and caregiving services can also help improve quality of life for patients and their families. Despite the progression of the disease, many people retain certain abilities—such as enjoying music, reading, storytelling, art, or crafts—for much of their illness.
During the interview, Glover reflected on his decades-long career, calling the 1984 drama Places in the Heart, starring Sally Field, his favorite film. Looking ahead, he said he hopes to inspire younger generations by encouraging them to take responsibility for creating positive change and working toward justice.
The actor has also been open about another major health challenge. Glover developed epilepsy at age 15 and took medication for about 20 years. Over time, he learned to recognize the warning signs before a seizure and often alerted those around him so they could help. He once recalled preventing a seizure while preparing to perform in a stage play by remaining calm and focused backstage. Glover has said he has not experienced a seizure since he was 35 years old.
Danny Glover is an American actor, producer and activist best known for his roles in some of Hollywood’s most memorable films. Born on July 22, 1946, in San Francisco, California, he studied at San Francisco State University before pursuing acting.
Glover’s breakthrough came in 1984 with Places in the Heart. He went on to star as Detective Roger Murtaugh opposite Mel Gibson in the hugely successful Lethal Weapon franchise. Other notable films include The Color Purple, Predator 2, Angels in the Outfield, Dreamgirls and Sorry to Bother You.
Beyond acting, Glover has long been recognized for his humanitarian work and advocacy on issues including civil rights, labor rights and global health. He has supported numerous charitable organizations and served as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme.
In 2022, Glover received an honorary Oscar from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in recognition of his outstanding career and humanitarian contributions. He remains one of Hollywood’s most respected actors and activists.
