Veteran actor and activist Danny Glover has revealed that he has been living with Alzheimer’s disease, opening up about his diagnosis in an emotional interview and acknowledging that the condition will continue to change his life.

The 79-year-old actor, best known for his roles in Lethal Weapon, The Color Purple, and Places in the Heart, shared the deeply personal news during an interview with NBC’s Today. Reflecting on his journey, Glover admitted that while he has learned to live with the diagnosis, he understands the challenges that lie ahead.

“I can live with it, in a sense,” Glover said. “I’m sure as it advances, things are going to be different and changing.”

When Was Danny Glover Diagnosed?

According to Glover, he received his Alzheimer’s diagnosis not long after being honored with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, an honorary Oscar presented by the Academy in 2022 for his decades of humanitarian work and social activism. His family later confirmed that the diagnosis came in 2023 after they noticed gradual changes in his memory and cognitive abilities.

His daughter, Mandisa Glover, said subtle memory lapses first raised concerns. She explained that her father, once known for his remarkable ability to recall people, places, and conversations in vivid detail, began forgetting small but noticeable details.

Choosing to Share His Story

Glover said he decided to publicly discuss his diagnosis while he is still able to tell his own story.

His daughter emphasized that maintaining control over his personal narrative was incredibly important to him. Rather than allowing rumors or speculation to define his condition, the family wanted to speak openly about what they have been experiencing together.

The actor acknowledged that accepting the diagnosis has not been easy.

“I’m still not accepting in my mind all parts of it,” he said, adding that there are still precious memories he holds onto that remind him of the life he has lived and the experiences he will never forget.

Family Support Has Been Essential

Throughout his journey, Glover credited his family for helping him navigate life with Alzheimer’s disease.

Mandisa has taken on a larger caregiving role, while other family members and caregivers continue to provide daily support. Despite the diagnosis, those closest to him say he remains deeply engaged with his loved ones and continues to find purpose in sharing his experiences.

A Career That Spans More Than Four Decades

Danny Glover has enjoyed one of Hollywood’s most respected careers, appearing in dozens of acclaimed films and television projects.

He is perhaps best known for portraying Detective Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon film series alongside Mel Gibson. Beyond acting, Glover has long been recognized for his advocacy on issues including civil rights, labor rights, education, and humanitarian causes.

His contributions to social justice earned him the Academy’s Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 2022, recognizing decades of activism beyond the screen.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior over time. The condition is progressive, meaning symptoms gradually worsen as the disease advances. While treatments may help manage symptoms, there is currently no cure.

By sharing his diagnosis publicly, Glover joins a growing number of public figures helping raise awareness about Alzheimer’s and encouraging conversations about early diagnosis, caregiving, and the importance of family support.

Looking Ahead

Although Danny Glover knows the road ahead will be difficult, he remains determined to focus on the present and the people who matter most to him.

His candid remarks have resonated with fans around the world, many of whom have praised his honesty and courage in speaking openly about such a deeply personal diagnosis.

As Glover himself acknowledged, life will change but with the support of his family and the legacy he has already built through both his acting and humanitarian work, he continues to face the future with resilience and grace.