Gena Rowlands Battles Alzheimer’s, A Condition Her Character In 'The Notebook' Had

Veteran actor Gena Rowlands, renowned for her extensive career in entertainment, has been battling Alzheimer's disease for over five years, her son, director Nick Cassavetes, revealed to Entertainment Weekly. Rowlands, who famously portrayed the older version of Rachel McAdams' character Allie in the 2004 romantic drama The Notebook, now shares a heartbreaking similarity with her on-screen role, as both her character and she suffer from Alzheimer's.

Nick Cassavetes, who directed The Notebook, shared the emotional struggle in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. He stated, "I got my mom to play older Allie, and we spent a lot of time talking about Alzheimer's and wanting to be authentic with it. And now, for the last five years, she's had Alzheimer's." He added, "She's in full dementia. And it's so crazy—we lived it, she acted it, and now it's on us." The revelation underscores the poignant and painful irony of Rowlands’ real-life battle, mirroring her on-screen portrayal.

Entertainment Weekly also noted that Gena Rowlands’ mother suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, indicating a possible genetic predisposition. This news adds a layer of tragic reality to the acclaimed actor’s life and career.

The Notebook Actor Gena Rowlands Is Battling Alzheimer’s, Son Reveals

The Notebook, directed by Nick Cassavetes and based on Nicholas Sparks' 1996 debut novel, is a beloved romantic drama. The film features Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling as a young couple deeply in love but separated by circumstances. The narrative also follows an elderly couple, portrayed by James Garner and Gena Rowlands, with Rowlands' character suffering from dementia. The story eventually reveals that they are the older versions of the characters played by McAdams and Gosling.

Gena Rowlands' portrayal of Allie in The Notebook is one of her many acclaimed performances. She is best known for starring in films such as The High Cost of Loving, A Child Is Waiting, Faces, Tony Rome, The Brink's Job, Gloria, Tempest, Love Streams, A Woman Under the Influence, and Another Woman. Her career spans decades and includes a remarkable range of roles that have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards.