Actor Danny Glover Opens Up About His Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

Actor and activist Danny Glover disclosed this week that he is living with Alzheimer’s disease. The four‑time Emmy Award nominee, now 79, revealed he received the diagnosis three years ago.

“I haven’t fully come to terms with every aspect of it,” Glover told People. “There are moments when I recall things clearly, confirming that my memory still works, and there are moments I will never forget.”

Glover chose to speak publicly because he and his family hope that sharing his experience will help diminish the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s. “I don’t view this as the end of my life,” he said. “There is still work to be done.”

Best known for films such as “Lethal Weapon,” “Places in the Heart,” and “The Color Purple,” Glover grew up in a household that nurtured his commitment to social justice and activism. He served as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme from 1998 to 2004 and was named a UNICEF goodwill ambassador in 2004.

“Acclaimed actor and humanitarian Danny Glover has long used his platform to inspire, educate, and advocate for others,” the Alzheimer’s Association stated in a release to MedPage Today. “By speaking openly about his Alzheimer’s journey, he continues that tradition of service and leadership.”

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 7 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia, and nearly three‑quarters of them are 75 or older.

In the United States, dementia prevalence and access to treatment differ by race and ethnicity. Older Black Americans are about twice as likely as older white Americans to develop Alzheimer’s or other dementias, and 36 % of Black respondents say they fear discrimination would hinder their ability to receive care. An analysis of Medicare data found that white patients were six times more likely than Black patients to receive disease‑modifying Alzheimer’s therapies.

Lecanemab (Leqembi) and donanemab (Kisunla) are anti‑amyloid medications approved in recent years for individuals with early‑stage symptomatic Alzheimer’s; over 150 additional compounds are currently under investigation in clinical trials. In 2025 the FDA cleared two blood‑based diagnostic tests: one to assist clinicians in identifying Alzheimer’s when symptoms are present, and another to help exclude Alzheimer’s in primary‑care settings.

Findings from the U.S. POINTER trial also indicate that early detection of cognitive impairment can be valuable, as targeted lifestyle interventions may slow progression and improve overall health.

Despite rapid advances in Alzheimer’s research, stigma continues to impede access to support and care. Misconceptions about dementia can lead to delayed diagnoses, social isolation, and caregiver burnout. Many people still view dementia as an inevitable part of aging or assume those affected are dangerous, which fuels discrimination and secrecy.

A survey conducted earlier this year showed that 85 % of primary‑care patients over age 62 would be willing to take a blood test to learn their Alzheimer’s status, yet 24 % expressed concern about being treated differently after a positive result.

“We applaud Danny Glover for speaking candidly about his experience and helping raise awareness of this devastating disease,” the Alzheimer’s Association said.

“His willingness to share his story will let others know they are not alone and will encourage vital conversations about Alzheimer’s and dementia,” the group added. “Alzheimer’s affects millions of individuals and families nationwide, and stories like Danny’s highlight the urgent need for greater awareness, care, and support.”

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