Gena Rowlands, the 94-year-old Golden Globe winner known for her role in the 2004 film “The Notebook,” has been living with Alzheimer’s disease for the past five years. The actress portrayed an older version of Rachel McAdam’s character, Allie, who also had dementia in the movie.
Nick Cassavetes, the director of “The Notebook” and Rowlands’ son, recently revealed his mother’s diagnosis while reflecting on the film’s 20th anniversary. He shared that they had spent a lot of time discussing Alzheimer’s to ensure authenticity in her portrayal of the character.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, leading to a gradual decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and social skills. Rowlands, whose mother also suffered from the disease, found playing Allie to be particularly challenging due to her personal experience with Alzheimer’s.
Despite the difficulties, Cassavetes praised his mother’s talent and dedication to the role. He recalled a moment on set when Rowlands surprised everyone with her emotional performance, proving her ability to deliver a powerful performance even in the face of adversity.
As Rowlands continues to navigate life with Alzheimer’s, her son remains by her side, cherishing the memories they shared on and off the screen. The legacy of “The Notebook” lives on, not only as a beloved romantic drama but also as a tribute to Rowlands’ incredible talent and resilience.
