Which Actress Has Alzheimer's?

Screen legend Gena Rowlands has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This news was shared publicly in June 2024 by her son, Nick Cassavetes.

The reference explicitly states: "Screen legend Gena Rowlands has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.25-Jun-2024"

Understanding the Diagnosis

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes the brain to shrink (atrophy) and brain cells to die. It is the most common cause of dementia, a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral, and social skills that affects a person's ability to function independently.

• Key symptoms often include memory loss, difficulty with thinking and problem-solving, and changes in mood or behavior.
• The disease is irreversible and progressive, meaning symptoms gradually worsen over time.

Gena Rowlands: A Cinematic Icon

Gena Rowlands is a highly respected figure in the film industry, known for her powerful and nuanced performances. She is particularly celebrated for her collaborations with her late husband, filmmaker John Cassavetes.

Some of her notable films include:

• A Woman Under the Influence (1974) - Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress.
• Gloria (1980) - Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress.
• Faces (1968)
• Opening Night (1977)
• The Notebook (2004) - Portraying the older Allie.

Her career spans several decades, earning her numerous accolades, including honorary Academy Awards and Emmy Awards.

Key Information Summary

Based on the provided reference, here is a summary of the actress diagnosed with Alzheimer's:

The announcement of her diagnosis brought an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues, highlighting her significant impact on cinema. Her son, Nick Cassavetes, noted the challenging nature of the disease, particularly given its connection to the plot of The Notebook, where her character suffers from a similar condition.