Danny Glover, the 79-year-old actor known for roles in the "Lethal Weapon" films and "The Color Purple," revealed in early July 2026 that he has been living with Alzheimer's disease for several years [1, 2]. He announced his diagnosis shortly after receiving an honorary Academy Award in 2022, which recognized his career and humanitarian work [1, 3, 2].
The progressive neurodegenerative disease has affected Glover's speech, movement, and memory, symptoms typical of Alzheimer's [1, 3, 2]. Despite these challenges, Glover said he maintains a positive attitude about his condition. "I could live with it, in a sense. I'm sure as it advances, things are going to be different and changing," he said [1]. He also credited his family support, stating, "They've got my back" [2].
Glover's daughter Mandisa emphasized the importance of him speaking openly on his own terms about his diagnosis. She said, "And the time is now. What better time but now for him to speak for himself? It’s important because people ask questions sometimes, and I don’t want to be a dishonest person and say, ‘Oh, yeah, everything is all right. It’s all great’" [1]. She added, "That's what I think is important, you know, that he tells his story. That he has ownership of his life" [3].
Danny Glover's celebrated nearly 40-year career includes around 170 to 200 film and TV credits depending on the source [1, 3]. His notable work includes the "Lethal Weapon" franchise, "Places in the Heart," "Predator 2," "Witness," "The Royal Tenenbaums," as well as TV roles on "Hill Street Blues" and "ER" [1, 2].
Alzheimer’s is typically diagnosed in people aged 65 and older and affects memory, thinking, and behavior [3, 2]. Those diagnosed typically live 4 to 8 years on average, though some live longer [2]. An estimated more than 7 million Americans aged 65 and older live with the disease [3].
Glover first spoke publicly about his diagnosis in interviews with The Today Show and NBC on July 1 and 2, 2026 [1, 2]. The actor continues to work and maintain a hopeful outlook as he manages the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
