Chris Hemsworth is considering an acting hiatus, citing his risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
The Hollywood actor told Vanity Faire that he underwent tests as part of his Disney+ docu-series ‘Limitless’.
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and progressively worsens.
It is cited as the cause of 60/70% of dementia cases, with early signs including difficulty recalling recent events.
As the disease advances, symptoms can include problems with language, disorientation, mood swings, loss of motivation, self-neglect, and behavioural issues.
As a patient’s condition declines, they withdraw from society, gradually losing bodily functions and later dying.
In the ‘Limitless’ series, Hemsworth was to undergo a series of tests, exploring ways to live longer and healthier.
Chris Hemsworth was quoted as saying he has two copies of the gene ApoE4, one each from his mum and dad.
He said he learned this makes him eight to 10 times more likely to develop the disease than those without them.
Hemsworth clarified that he wasn’t diagnosed with Alzheimer’s but was only warned of the heightened risk.
“It’s not a pre-deterministic gene, but it is a strong indication. Ten years ago, I think it was more thought of as determinant,” the actor, popular for his role as Thor in several Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies, said.
On taking a break, Hemsworth stated: “It’s not like I’ve been handed my resignation. [But it] really triggered something in me to want to take some time off.
“If you look at Alzheimer’s prevention, the benefit of preventative steps is that it affects the rest of your life.
“It’s all about sleep management, stress management, nutrition, movement, and fitness. It’s all kind of the same tools that need to be applied in a consistent way.”
Hemsworth said the test was not a total surprise as his grandfather has Alzheimer’s, although he’s living fine.
“I’m not sure he actually remembers much anymore. He slips in and out of Dutch, which is his original language, so he’ll be talking Dutch and English and then a mash-up and then maybe some other new words as well,” he said.
Copyright 2024 TheCable. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from TheCable.
Follow us on twitter @Thecablestyle