Chris Hemsworth has expressed his initial hesitation about revealing his genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease, citing concerns over how it might impact his acting career. In a candid interview with Variety, the acclaimed actor, famous for his role as Thor in the Marvel franchise, reflected on the personal nature of his disclosure and the vulnerability it brought.
The 42-year-old actor, who learned in 2022 that he carries a copy of the APOE4 gene from both parents—which significantly increases his risk of developing the disease—shared that both his father and grandfather had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Although he acknowledged the gravity of this genetic indicator, he was quick to clarify that it doesn’t guarantee he will develop the disease. “It’s not a pre-deterministic gene, but it is a strong indication,” he explained.
Hemsworth admitted that he was frustrated by the media portrayal of his announcement, which he felt focused more on the fear and uncertainty surrounding his risk rather than his message that it “is not a death sentence.” He noted that despite his attempts to communicate his feelings about the risk, headlines suggested that he was contemplating retirement and grappling with life-altering decisions, which he found upsetting.
Since his father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Hemsworth has become more selective in choosing roles, reflecting on his early career decisions where financial necessity often drove him to accept projects he might not have chosen purely for artistic satisfaction. “I’d think, ‘I came from nothing. Who am I to turn down that kind of money?’” he shared, emphasizing how he used his earnings to support his family.
One of Hemsworth’s upcoming projects, a deeply personal documentary titled “A Road Trip To Remember,” explores his father’s journey with Alzheimer’s. He described the film as a “love letter” to his father, aimed at empowering him and evoking cherished memories that Alzheimer’s has begun to erase.
In light of his genetic predisposition, Hemsworth has made notable lifestyle changes. He has shifted his fitness routine to prioritize cardio and endurance workouts instead of heavy weightlifting, along with taking more time for sleep and even incorporating regular ice baths into his regimen. While he took a brief hiatus from acting in 2023, he stressed that he is not stepping away from his career permanently, but rather reevaluating his approach.
Hemsworth’s journey and his commitment to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s and mental health serve as an inspiring reminder of resilience in the face of personal challenges, while also emphasizing the importance of family and support during difficult times.