Gena Rowlands, the acclaimed two-time Oscar-nominated actress with over 100 film and television credits, has been revealed to have Alzheimer’s disease by her son, director Nick Cassavetes. The news was shared during a conversation with Entertainment Weekly discussing the 20th anniversary of their film, 'The Notebook.'
In 'The Notebook,' directed by Cassavetes, Rowlands portrayed the older version of the lead character, Allie, who was depicted as living with Alzheimer’s in the storyline. Cassavetes mentioned that they had extensive discussions about Alzheimer’s to ensure authenticity in the portrayal, drawing from their personal experiences. He revealed that for the past five years, Rowlands has been battling Alzheimer’s and is currently in full dementia.
Rowlands had previously opened up about her personal connection to the disease, citing her own mother's struggle with Alzheimer’s. In an interview with O magazine in 2004, she expressed how challenging it was to take on the role in 'The Notebook' due to the emotional resonance it held for her.
Alzheimer’s disease, as described by the National Institute on Aging, is a progressive brain disorder that gradually impairs memory and cognitive functions. It is the leading cause of dementia among older adults, impacting millions of individuals worldwide.
The portrayal of Alzheimer’s in 'The Notebook' not only resonated with audiences but also served as a poignant reflection of Rowlands' personal experiences with the disease. The film's depiction of the challenges and emotional toll of Alzheimer’s has been praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
