Danny Glover reveals Alzheimer’s diagnosis in TODAY Show interview with Lester Holt [VIDEO]

The 79-year-old actor and activist went public with his years-long battle to reduce stigma and control his narrative

Danny Glover has publicly disclosed that he has been living with Alzheimer’s disease for several years. The legendary actor, who turns 80 on July 22, made the announcement during an exclusive interview with Lester Holt on the TODAY show, revealing a diagnosis he received around 2022 shortly after receiving an honorary Oscar.

The 84-second clip posted by @Phil_Lewis_ shows Glover in a blue blazer seated across from Holt in a home-like setting, surrounded by bookshelves and awards. The interview intercuts archival footage from his decades-long career with present-day conversation, showing the actor reflecting on his legacy while acknowledging the progressive challenges of his condition.

Taking a Private Battle Public on National Television

The TODAY segment opens with archival footage of a younger Glover in a light-colored suit before transitioning to the contemporary sit-down interview. Holt asks Glover directly about his diagnosis, and the actor responds with characteristic grace, acknowledging the changes he’s already experiencing.

Glover states that he “could live with it, in a sense,” while recognizing that “as it advances, things are going to be different and changing.” The interview captures moments of reflection, with Glover looking at his awards and career memorabilia as he discusses his legacy. At one point, both men smile, suggesting the conversation included lighter moments alongside the serious disclosure.

The actor remains active in his San Francisco community and committed to social justice work, though some activities like extensive travel have been impacted. Family members, including daughter Mandisa Glover and youngest brother Martin Glover, are referenced in the coverage as part of his support system.

Why Danny Glover Went Public

The disclosure was framed as a deliberate choice by Danny Glover to control his own narrative. His daughter Mandisa emphasized that he wanted to speak for himself rather than have others respond inaccurately about his condition. The decision to go public aims to reduce stigma around Alzheimer’s and raise awareness, particularly in Black communities where prevalence and risk factors are higher.

Glover’s public announcement places him alongside other high-profile figures who have discussed dementia-related diagnoses in recent years. By disclosing while still active and able to participate in the interview, Glover has taken control of how his health journey will be discussed.

The interview highlights the importance of narrative control and destigmatization. Coverage notes that Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with no cure, and Glover’s willingness to speak openly about his experience may encourage others to seek help and support.

A Career That Spans Nearly 50 Years

The TODAY clip intercuts Glover’s current interview with footage from his extensive career. Archival shots include him in a Western film holding a rifle, on stage at an awards ceremony in a tuxedo, and in various roles spanning film, television, and theater.

The segment emphasizes his nearly 40 years in the limelight and his body of work. His legendary body of work includes close to 200 credits. His breakthrough roles in Places in the Heart and The Color Purple are referenced, as is his iconic portrayal of Detective Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon franchise.

Beyond acting, Glover’s activism roots are highlighted. Influenced by his parents’ involvement in the Montgomery bus boycott era, he has served as a UN Development Programme and UNICEF goodwill ambassador focused on poverty, disease, and HIV/AIDS. His production company emphasizes socially conscious projects from underserved communities. Additionally, he received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the Academy Awards.

X Honors Danny Glover’s Trail Blazing Career

Many viewers immediately took to X once they learned the news. On the specific clip shared by Phil Lewis, the audience left 101 comments. They honored Glover, calling him everything from a legend to a natural treasure and a cultural staple. With that, they expressed sympathies and well-wishes for his family.

“May God make the journey ahead easy for on him and his family,” one user wrote. Another commented, “Oh man. Prayers for Danny Glover.” Several users noted the emotional weight of the disease, with one replying, “Oh no… Such a horrible disease. Prayers for him and his family.”

Comparisons to other celebrity health disclosures appeared, with one user writing, “Ion know how to feel about this happening to him and Bruce Willis.” The reference to Bruce Willis, who has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, reflected a broader awareness of dementia-related illnesses affecting public figures.

Some replies shared personal family experiences. “This disease is absolute hell on earth. It takes you from immense highs to unbearable depths. Our family was able to find the happy moments with our Mom by allowing her to be who she was as the disease progressed with patience, love, kindness and laughter!” one user wrote.

Honoring Glover While He’s Still Here

A recurring theme was the desire to recognize Glover’s contributions while he is still able to receive that recognition. “I’m heartbroken. God bless him and his family. Give this man his flowers!!💐” one user wrote. Another commented, “Danny glover been working since the 80s, nearly 200 roles deep, and he’s going public with alzheimers at 79 instead of hiding from it. most actors disappear when the diagnosis hits.”

Some replies focused on Glover’s specific roles. “Prayer up to him and may God comfort him and his family in these trying times. I will always remember his iconic performance in the color purple,” one user wrote. Another simply said, “Aww man I’m tore up about this.”

The Impact of Alzheimer’s and Glover’s Ongoing Activism

The interview addresses how the diagnosis has affected Danny Glover’s life, including slowed movement, speech, and memories. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to social justice and equality work. The coverage positions his disclosure as a way to help others by sharing his story.

Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative condition with no cure, affects millions of families. The Alzheimer’s Association notes higher prevalence and risk factors in Black communities, making Glover’s decision to speak publicly particularly significant. Early detection, physical activity, and management of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes are highlighted as potentially helpful.

Glover’s willingness to discuss his experience while still active may encourage others to seek support and reduce the stigma surrounding dementia diagnoses. His legacy as both an entertainer and activist adds weight to the conversation, reminding viewers that Alzheimer’s affects people from all walks of life.

Final Thoughts: The Legacy of Danny Glover

As the news of Glover’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis spreads, the actor’s legacy as one of Hollywood’s most respected figures remains intact. His decision to go public while still able to speak for himself reflects the dignity and control that have characterized his career and activism.

Glover’s body of work spans nearly five decades, with roles that have become cultural touchstones. His performances in The Color Purple, Lethal Weapon, and countless other films have left an indelible mark on American cinema. Beyond his acting, his humanitarian work has made him a respected figure both in and outside the entertainment industry.

The response to his disclosure has been overwhelmingly supportive, with viewers expressing gratitude for his contributions and empathy for his current journey. The announcement serves as both a reminder of his enduring impact and an opportunity to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, particularly in communities where it is most prevalent.