Actor Danny Glover revealed his Alzheimer’s diagnosis in an exclusive interview with NBC’s Lester Holt that aired on Wednesday, July 1. The 79-year-old icon said he was diagnosed with the neurodegenerative disease several years ago.
Glover’s symptoms have worsened over time. The disorder has slowed his speech and impacted his mobility and balance. But his Alzheimer’s diagnosis hasn’t affected his memory yet.
“I’m sure as it advances, things are going to be different and changing,” Glover said. He and his family believe that by sharing his story they can help remove some of the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s.
“We all get old, it happens,” said Glover’s daughter, Mandisa. “That’s what I think is important, you know, that he tells his story. He has ownership of his life.”
Glover is known for his roles as Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon film series and as Mister in The Color Purple (1985).
In the interview at his home, Glover recalled the infamous toilet bomb scene from Lethal Weapon 2 (1989). He said fans would bring their toilets for him to autograph at meet & greets.
Glover told Holt his favorite film is 1984’s Places in the Heart, starring Sally Field. He said the cast was “wonderful” and he dedicated his performance in the movie to his mother, Carrie, who died in a car accident the day he was cast in the movie.
Glover received an honorary Academy Award in 2022 for his work in over 200 films.