Actor and filmmaker Alan Alda has opened up about his experience of celebrating a major milestone while fighting a battle with Parkinson's disease. The 'M*A*S*H' star turned 90 on January 28 this year, but faces daily struggles that are incomprehensible to many. Here is a closer look at Alan Alda, who is turning 90 and talking about his struggle with Parkinson's disease.
Alan Alda Talks About His Age and Disease
Recalling his birthday in 2026, Alda spoke about getting help from others for small tasks. 'I was just thinking of the day, the actual day that I was 90 this year,' the veteran celebrity said at the 'Conversation: More Rules for Aging' event in New York City on May 21, as reported by People. He added, 'We went out to dinner and the waiter came by at the end of the meal with a cupcake with a candle in it and led the singing, saying, 'Happy birthday, older gentleman.'' When he blew out the candles on the cupcake, his family reportedly remarked that he could do it without anyone's help, marking a pivotal moment that made his age sink in. Talking about how being older becomes a constant reminder, Alda realized this when he discovered that all his daughters—Eve, 67, Elizabeth, 65, and Beatrice, 64—are now on Medicare. However, he does not count his age by the years he has spent on earth, but rather 'counted by how many times a day somebody says, 'Can I help you?''
About Alan Alda
Alan Alda was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease 10 years ago, but he has not let it demotivate him. Treating it as an interesting puzzle to solve, the star has maintained a positive outlook on the neurological disorder. Born in 1936, the actor-filmmaker is renowned for his roles in 'The Four Seasons,' 'Same Time, Next Year,' 'The Longest Ride,' 'The Blacklist,' '30 Rock,' and many more productions.
