For nearly 70 years, Arlene Alda has stood quietly and faithfully beside her husband, acclaimed actor Alan Alda. Their 68-year marriage is a shining example of lasting love, built on patience, laughter, and unwavering support. Now 89, Alan is living with Parkinson’s disease, and through it all, Arlene remains his rock. Long before his diagnosis, Alan experienced an unusual dream in which he hurled a pillow at Arlene, believing it to be a sack of potatoes in an attack. That strange moment stayed with him.
Its significance became clear later when Alan read a New York Times column by Jane Brody, which mentioned that acting out dreams might signal early signs of Parkinson’s. Though doctors initially found no issues, Alan followed his instincts and insisted on a brain scan. It confirmed the diagnosis in 2015. Rather than give in to fear, Alan took action—committing to a strict regimen of physical activity including boxing, tennis, tai chi, and even juggling. His message ever since has been one of optimism: stay active, don’t give up, and confront the illness with strength.
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that impacts movement, coordination, and muscle control. As the condition advances, symptoms like tremors, slowed movement, and stiffness intensify—something noticeable in Alan’s recent public appearances. The disease also affects sleep, memory, mood, and attention. In addition, Alan deals with prosopagnosia (face blindness), which makes recognizing even close friends and colleagues difficult.
Still, Alan never abandoned his craft. He continues to act, speak publicly, and pursue creative ventures. Best known for his role as Hawkeye Pierce in MASH*, for which he won two Emmys, Alan later earned an Oscar nomination for The Aviator. He recently reappeared in a Netflix remake of his 1981 film The Four Seasons, often joking that acting is now his part-time job, while managing Parkinson’s is full-time.
At the core of Alan’s inspiring journey is his love story with Arlene. They met in 1956 at a college gathering, where they laughed over a rum cake that had fallen on the floor. That shared moment of joy sealed their connection. While Alan built a celebrated acting career, Arlene forged her own identity as a photographer and musician. Today, both in their late 80s, their relationship remains strong—rooted in simple joys and mutual affection. Alan often says that the best part of his life is “laughing with my wife,” a sentiment that has endured through success, struggle, and time.
