Veteran actor and activist Danny Glover has publicly disclosed that he is living with Alzheimer’s disease, offering a candid reflection on his diagnosis, his family’s support and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.
The 79-year-old made the announcement during a pre-recorded interview with Lester Holt that aired Wednesday on NBC’s Today show.
Diagnosis Came After Receiving Honorary Oscar
Glover revealed that he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease shortly after receiving an honorary Academy Award in 2022. Speaking openly about the condition, he said he has accepted the diagnosis while recognizing that the illness will gradually change his life.
Although he remains optimistic, Glover acknowledged that the disease will become more challenging as it progresses, adding that he expects significant changes in the years ahead.
Family Provides Strength During New Chapter
The acclaimed actor emphasized that his family has become one of his greatest sources of support since learning of the diagnosis.
According to Glover, his loved ones have remained firmly by his side throughout the journey, giving him confidence as he faces the uncertainties associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
His daughter, Mandisa Glover, also participated in the interview, explaining that her father wanted to share the news personally rather than have others speak on his behalf.
Daughter Says It Was Time to Tell His Story
Mandisa said allowing her father to address his diagnosis publicly was an important decision because it gave him control over his own narrative.
She explained that questions about his health had become increasingly common and that honesty was important to both of them. Rather than allowing speculation to continue, she believed the time had come for Glover to speak directly to the public.
Looking Back on a Distinguished Career
During the conversation, Glover reflected on a career spanning more than four decades in film and television. Among his many performances, he identified Places in the Heart, in which he starred alongside Sally Field, as his favorite project.
Beyond his achievements as an actor, Glover said he hopes his lasting impact will include encouraging younger generations to embrace social responsibility and work toward justice.
He noted that one of the most important lessons he learned from his parents was that people have the ability to transform themselves and create positive change in society.
From Hollywood Icon to Influential Activist
Glover became internationally recognized for portraying Detective Roger Murtaugh opposite Mel Gibson in the Lethal Weapon film series, one of Hollywood’s most successful buddy-cop franchises.
His career also includes acclaimed performances in films such as The Color Purple and numerous dramatic productions, while his activism has made him an influential voice on humanitarian and social justice issues outside the entertainment industry.
Previous Health Battle With Epilepsy
The Alzheimer’s diagnosis is not the first major health challenge Glover has discussed publicly.
He has previously spoken about living with epilepsy after experiencing his first seizure at age 15. The actor managed the condition with medication for approximately two decades and eventually learned to recognize warning signs before seizures occurred.
Glover has recalled informing those around him whenever he sensed an episode approaching so they could assist him if necessary.
Overcoming Adversity Throughout His Life
The actor also shared memories of experiencing seizure symptoms while preparing for a stage performance early in his career.
Rather than allowing the episode to prevent him from performing, he said he fought through the experience backstage before returning to the stage.
Over time, he said those episodes became less frequent, and he has not experienced a seizure since the age of 35.
Facing the Future With Openness
By publicly discussing his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Glover has chosen to confront another significant chapter of his life with transparency and determination.
Surrounded by the support of his family, the celebrated actor said he intends to face the future on his own terms while continuing to inspire others through both his personal resilience and decades-long contribution to film, activism and public service.
