'This isn't going to last forever': Chris Hemsworth reveals heartbreaking hope as he comes to terms with increased Alzheimer's risk
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a candid interview actor Chris Hemsworth, 39, opens up about his recent revelation of being genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's disease and the impact it has had on his perspective on life and career. The Aussie actor, who lost his grandfather Martin at the age of 83 to the disease, revealed on how he wants to be remembered when he dies while sharing the importance of leaving a positive legacy.
"My uncle specifically said, 'he's remembered as a good bloke.' And if he knew, or if someone told him that's how he would be remembered, how incredibly proud he would feel," the Marvel star explained. "It made me think about my own life. And it wasn't about career or anything. It was about being remembered as someone who was good and kind and contributed something of value," he told GQ.
Chris Hemsworth reflects on prioritizing a positive legacy
Hemsworth emphasized that being remembered as a "good bloke" meant more to him than any career achievements. He pondered the significance of leaving behind a positive legacy and being recognized for kindness and contributions of value and not just as a movie star. "Everything has more importance now, because of the realisation that this isn't going to last forever," the actor added.
Chris Hemsworth takes proactive measures against Alzheimer's risk
Last year, while filming his Disney+ docuseries 'Limitless,' he discovered his genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's. Hemsworth was informed that he is "between eight and 10 times" more likely to develop the disease due to having two copies of the APOE4 gene, a rare occurrence affecting only two to three percent of the population. Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive degeneration of the brain. It involves the accumulation of abnormal proteins that lead to the death of nerve cells. This process disrupts the transmission of messages and contributes to the shrinking of the brain.
Acknowledging the increased risk, Hemsworth is taking proactive steps to mitigate it. He recognizes the importance of prioritizing sleep, moderating alcohol consumption, and eliminating cigarettes to reduce his level of risk. Consequently, he has taken a hiatus from work, considering only projects that he deems "worthy of his time" and that align with his values.
Hemsworth has been relishing quality time with his wife Elsa, 46, and three children, daughter India, 10, and twin boys Tristan and Sasha, nine, emphasizing the importance of cherishing these precious moments. In this introspective phase of his life, Hemsworth aims to make meaningful contributions and leave behind a legacy that goes beyond his filmography.