Alan Alda reveals Parkinson's disease diagnosis

Legendary actor Alan Alda revealed he has Parkinson's disease. On "CBS This Morning" Tuesday, the award-winning actor said he was diagnosed with the degenerative disease three and a half years ago but has "had full life since then." Alda is best known for his relatable portrayal of Army Capt. "Hawkeye" Pierce in CBS' "M*A*S*H," which connected viewers to life on the front lines of war.
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[@johnbacon4414]

I was diagnosed three months ago and I fully agree with Alan. It's a challenge, but we deal with the cards we are dealt with!

[@deborah8887]

John Bacon Wishing you all the best. Stay strong👍

[@ChingerBurger]

Hope you are getting on well.

[@jonbbaca5580]

Good luck and stay strong!

[@peaceandlove544]

There is a new brain chip, but acupunture does wonders and maybe an anti imflatary drug on the back of the neck that helps people with alzhmeirs, strokes and other neuro disorders

[@cryptoearning3799]

How you daignosis??

[@bradleyparsons3261]

May God bless Alan Alda. Im only 56 and I already had a stroke by the time I was 47. I'm alright by now. God bless you.

[@jonbbaca5580]

My mother swears by an all vegetable and fruit diet! I think it's kinda crazy, but it's really worked for her... Great health to you!

[@MrSvenovitch]

I'll never get people asking for blessings after they've been blessed with disease....there's nobody up in the sky. If there were, they would not be worth talking to.

[@mvpandrew93]

Bless this man. What a great spirit.

[@edoedo8686]

Yes.

[@invigoratephysicaltherapya5426]

What an amazing role model for the Parkinson's community to see. Attitude and perspective is everything when you're wrapping your mind around a diagnosis like PD. Way to go, Alan.

[@pablocruise678]

Invigorate Physical Therapy and Wellness - umm.. ever heard of Michael J. Fox?

[@voicetube]

@@pablocruise678 I'm kind of guessing she probably has, LOL! She never said Mr. Alda was the only person to speak out, but she is validating that he did, which is cool. I'm sure she admires Mr. Fox as well.

[@amylindberg123]

Ditto!

[@auntiebobbolink]

I hope this doesn't become one more way to judge others who don't respond in the same way. Remember, alda not only has had a full and enriching life, he has a lot if support from others and enough money to provide opportunities many, if not most, people don't have. Let's please not turn this into one more judgement.

[@danaferguson462]

Alan Also used to come daily to the store I worked at in Bel Air CA He is a genuinely kind man! What a good example of what a Man should be!!

[@okiedokey9962]

When I was a kid my older brother who had been to Vietnam loved to watch MASH. Being about 8 years old I didnt understand the humor but my brother would laugh quite a bit. I am now 56. My brother passed away 10 years ago. Sometime I will watch a rerun on purpose and imagine the sound of Jims laugh. Funny how t.v. shows invoke a memory.

[@papasmurf3569]

My uncle served as well but I was born in 91 so I’m late but he used to watch MASH and abott and costello on the amc channel and I used to watch it with him now being 30 it’s crazy hilarious to watch comedy from back then

[@elisabethmoser8455]

I love this man. He has given so much over the years. His MASH years educated us all to the realities of war.

[@DavidSmith-ss1cg]

Ah - I have to say that I don't entirely agree. The MASH TV show was copied from the MASH movie, which came out while the US was still embroiled in the Vietnam War. So they both were fairly plainly anti-war. By the time the series ended, it was smothering in it's own cleverness, and the anti-war message was more subdued. There were many in my parents generation who disliked MASH because of this. In 1950, the North Koreans invaded the hapless South much like Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait in 1991, and pushed the woefully unprepared US and South Korean troops around. The opposing armies didn't just get together and then the war "just happened;" the North Koreans had previously planned and prepared for the invasion; and they considered the South Koreans traitors, and these bad feelings caused the invaders to be cruel and bloodthirsty. The US had demilitarized a lot after WW2, and at the time was afflicted with the worst of the anti-communist frenzy; and their military response was delayed and feeble. The Korean War is now called "The Forgotten War." It was the first time that the US didn't win undisputedly. In fact, it didn't really end until Stalin died, and the US military, which dislikes talking about strategy after not having one in Vietnam made them look so bad, plays this down. People dislike Truman for firing McArthur, who wanted to use tactical nukes on the Red Chinese; but Truman worried that use of nukes in the Far East might cause Stalin to invade Europe - and nobody could have opposed him. At the time that MASH the TV show ended, war movies were not in fashion, and it took quite a while - until Saving Private Ryan - for the US to get back in touch with it's cultural love of things that go "KA-BOOM."

[@eddieking2976]

Alan Alda is such a great promoter of science, logic, and reason. I wish him all the best in his struggle.

[@jonsteadman6216]

Nice to hear him talking positively and focusing on the science - he's such a great guy

[@Rolyataylor2]

Alan Alda has always been a role model growing up. When I was little I used to watch mash and his character Hawkeye had a large influence in they way I view the world. Scientific american frontier was my favorite show growing up. I am so glad he has been living a good and long life. I would love to thank him for all his work.

[@waybec102]

I'm exactly the same... A tremendous Human Being!

[@jonbbaca5580]

He's a national treasure for so many roles! Amen

[@lauriebolles3149]

My Father's Father had Parkinson's. My Dad lived to 87 and never developed Parkinson's, but my older Sister developed a slight shake in her right hand in her early 40's. But it could also have been due to severe depression caused by a stressful marriage. She passed away a month after her 45th Birthday. I'm now soon to be 65 and sofar no signs, but that doesn't mean I'm out of the ballpark. My Grandfather lived into his 80's. Life is always going to throw us challenges and it's wonderful having Alan share with us his experiences and positive approach. Have a nice day and follow your bliss.

[@Cml725]

Bless you!

[@lindaoliver2392]

ThAm

[@davidjack9217]

What a lovely guy - a true human being!!!

[@valnaples]

I know right? So caring and truly conscientious!

[@barbieroberts8139]

What a fantastic attitude and resilience he’s got. I could learn a lot from him. Thank you, Alan.

[@MsLansones]

Alan Alda is my hero.

[@ann-mariebarmby8679]

MsLansones yes mine too he's so amazing ....have always loved him ..great social conscious...loved him in Mash xx

[@ForeignerFan74]

Mine Too!

[@Unqualifiedmedicalperson]

Good choice

[@znowicotton5176]

I was diagnosed with a Parkinson's like illness of autoimmune disorder from having west Nile and Lyme disease. It takes a special and strong and funny person to survive. He is truely one of those blessed individuals.

[@sisenor4091]

He still looks good.

[@mb1636]

Not even a liver spot on his skin. Beautiful man.

[@MarleyAngell]

I was diagnosed 4 years ago. I was 51 years old. I was very angry about it. I still am for the most part. Some days are worse than others. I wish I could have the positive attitude that Mr. Alda has. I have always been a big fan of his. He’s amazing!

[@trap3355]

Alan, you're my hero. Your work will live on forever. Applaud your courage.

[@kiwdwks]

Great attitude...great man!

[@Sarah-jz6qd]

I love Alan Alda so much. It breaks my heart. I wish we didn't have to go through these things as we age.

[@kathrynspencer3018]

One of my all time favourite actors, demonstrating a wonderful attitude - you show that Parkinson's who's boss!

[@luiscortex1326]

I love Alan alda.

[@sueo.6731]

What an admirable and wonderful approach to his disease. Love him.

[@oldladylovesBruno]

He is an amazing man. Super nice guy, with a great attitude for life.

[@dennisaugustine6544]

Meeting Alan Alda has been on my bucket list for some time now. He's been my favorite actor from M.A.S.H. and I know I'd learn a thing or two from him in the process. Stay strong like you do sir!

[@Suzee46]

Thank you Alan Alda!! My maternal uncle succumbed to complications from Parkinson’s in 1994. I also lost a beloved paternal aunt from complications of the disease. It’s difficult to watch your loved ones suffer. Thankfully there’s more that can medically be done now than 30+ years ago when my uncle was initially diagnosed.

[@marydwyer1496]

Such a terrific human being. He is one of the best role-models ever!

[@ann-mariebarmby1228]

Love Alan soo much xx❤

[@sosoutherncustomequestrian4598]

God bless you Alan Alda. Love you!

[@robingraves4476]

I just love Alan Alda’s attitude about the Parkinson’s disease,he doesn’t let it stop him! I truly admire him! Also an inspiration!

[@valnaples]

Wow...very gracious and caring....not surprising from this man! Hope he continues to THRIVE and conquer and rise to the "challenge."

[@ElvarMasson]

I don't know why this video came up on my "up next" videos - normally I play random music - but I'm glad it did. Alan Alda has made me happy for decades. Obviously he will never know how grateful I am

[@ladydragonfly5172]

Big fan of Alan Alda. What a class act guy! My favorite role of his was Hawkeye in Mash. Great show, miss the shows of the 70s!

[@wuodbonde]

I liked Alan Alda before I saw this interview. After watching this, I now whole heartedly adore the man. What a fantastic attitude and role model.

[@MusicInMyJeans]

This might sound weird, but I'll throw it out there anyway.This video's saved to my "bad days" playlist.His voice, attitude & grandfather-like wisdom is an encouraging msg to hear when I get stuck in my head about my illness progression & future.I have a genetic disease, not PD, but I can imagine others w/chronic illness & anyone w/anxiety could benefit as well

[@MaryBeth1965]

I've loved Alan Alda for 40 years. Godspeed to him. What an inspiration he is to others suffering from this disease. Keep on keeping on!

[@vinniebarbarino5725]

I wish we could stay young forever.

[@GinaCarranza1989]

Television Notion. You can. Read the Bible. Psalm 37:29 & Isaiah 65:21, 22.

[@julienielsen3746]

I say Psalm 103:5 every morning - He satisfies my mouth with good things ( good words) ; so that my youth is renewed like the eagle's. And "I thank You Lord that the number of my days You will fulfill. My days shall be 120 years." Exodus 23:26 , Genesis 6:3

[@DavidSmith-ss1cg]

Oscar Wilde said that "Youth is wasted on the young."

[@teamcrumb]

me too

[@dawnestelle-hodgson9705]

Virginia Carranza Excellent my Sister, a good witness.

[@kelleyhowells2651]

Alan Alda is an amazing human being! Thank you for all you have given to society!

[@bennylloyd-willner9667]

Alan Alda and Michael J Fox show us that we can overcome almost any problem with a firm but humble attitude. Two great humans, for sure!

[@VladSpatariu]

This man is my hero and honestly an example on which I modeled myself on during my developing years. Bless your soul, Alan.

[@stevendenton4965]

What a wonderful man! I've been watching Alan Alda for over 40 years. What a great attitude he has about this terrible disease. It doesn't surprise me. Hawkeye would have acted the same way!

[@bettygorske2136]

I just love Alan..he's such an inspiration to us all! I still watch MASH!! Such an excellent, magnificent, brilliant actor/man...Such a Lovely Soul....I will always love this kind sweet man...

[@brucehubbard1852]

His grandson went and graduated from my school. Forman, he made a wonderful speech at graduation. Always will love him in mash.

[@dot3518]

He is right my husband was diagnosed 6 yrs ago , he has a wonderful attitude and it makes all of the difference in the world. It doesn't mean his life isn't hard it is very hard.

[@debrastone3536]

I love Alan Alda. He is a wonderful man. I enjoy all his shows and movies. Now I am enjoying his optimism and he is so encouraging to everyone. Bless you Alan Alda!

[@susanbehring3401]

Just love him. I have the same attitude with my MS.

[@greenize1959]

So does my husband who has MS as well.

[@wademyers6598]

Ive been laughing with this man my entire life, and Im old. Times have changed, and I almost feel sorry for everyone who cant enjoy his sense of humor. Charisma and intelligence are a rare combination.

[@maryridner1069]

Amazing how I remember him and to see him now. Time marching on. God knows I love that man. His MASH episodes were a part of my youth and I still go back on You Tube and relive.....

[@murrayhaliburton4916]

Same here

[@KevinConlon69]

Alan has such a great attitude. I would like to suggest that when you interview someone that has any online presence that is mentioned in the interview, that you provide links in the description to help get their word out there.

[@CBU-j2v]

Parkinson's for me is like spinning the "Wheel of misfortune" and winning every morning. He is correct, the disease is extremely dynamic with something new arriving daily. STAY ACTIVE.....YOU GO STAGNANT, ITS GAME OVER!

[@camilla6110]

Parkinson's has so many varied symptoms and often goes undiagnosed. Many times, there is NO tremor and the shaking is more inward, inside the body, manifesting in painful muscles, gait imbalance and shuffling, arms don't swing with walking, expressionless face, soft speaking voice, small handwriting that trails off, big toe sticking up, nervousness, emotionality...lots of keys to look for. Eventually the brain shuts down organs and body functions begin to fail. It is a brutal disease, especially in the end stages. Staying active and limber helps, but as Mr. Alda says, each day is different. The primary Parkinson's medicine helps keep the levels in the brain at functioning levels which is why proper diagnosis is essential. Find a trustworthy neurologist and be optimistic and don't let it BE WHO YOU ARE.

[@camilla6110]

spoly 13 Oh yes! You walk a fine line between the benefits and the risks of the meds, for sure! As we increase my Father's medication, his nightmares and hallucinations increase and we have had to back the med down, because the nightmares are worse than losing physical functionality. It is a tough tough road that you and your husband walked, my friend. 😔

[@70sheaven]

sorry for your loss spoly

[@paulaverachtert490]

Parkinson's is a terrible condition that you, your worst enemy, do not wish! True, it comes in two types, one is in the brain, and one has to do with the nerves! I myself also have it out of the blue, no omens, nothing! suddenly one day, now 11 months ago, I suddenly had to run, I could not stop my legs went on! until I fell to the ground, and it was over ... (I immediately knew it was Parkinson's) my inmum system had been working badly for a few years ... (I was never sick) and suddenly just like that! my blood count was 10 and I had to take Prednisone and antibiotics ... the only thing bothering me is my calves that's all. months ago I had tremor on the inside of the femur twice. I swallow on principe no medicines, they are worse than the disease! this night i have a bad night pain in my legs ... will go away. I have a son-in-law who had something placed in his head ... (under local anesthetic, with Parkinson's, you should not have a complete anesthetic.) my short term memory has taken a hit, and I have gentle taps on my face, hands and stomach ... sometimes not every day, had a CT scan, had another MRI, and a DAT scan, but with this terrible Covid I stay inside, really don't go outside. i wish all the people affected by this terrible monster, strength, and try it without drugs, my neurologist was very satisfied. strength all

[@CaryCarpenter]

I loved him as Captain Benjamin Franklin "Hawkeye" Pierce. I loved his laugh. Keep the laughs coming Alan!!

[@rossanafioravanti8526]

Wonderful actor! It reminds me when I was a little girl and watched MASH on tv with my family back in the 70's I guess. We were all in love with mr Alda and I think that my anti War attitude comes from that character and the way mr Alda played it. Grazie signor Alan Alda con tutto il ❤, from Italy.

[@jdssurf]

Love you Alan. One of my inspirations to keep going all these years and to accept that life just gets crazy, and sometimes you gotta give life some crazy back.

[@curtisjohnson1125]

Same time next year . One of my all time favorite movies . If you haven’t seen it , please do . The story of my life 😁

[@KryzMasta]

It's interesting to watch. In his facial expressions and movements he's aged 20 years in the past 3, probably due to Parkinson's. He used to have very active mimicry, which is very minimal now. And at first that gave me the impression that his mind was slower too. But then he speeds up his speech and if you close your eyes there's no hint of any slowing down. I hope he gets to enjoy his work and life in general for as long as is comfortable, and that he can gracefully exit the stage when he's ready.

[@Revansstuntdouble]

He has such beautiful eyes.

[@roisinlynch5101]

God love that man that was diagnosis with Parkinson's disease. My late dad had that awful disease and I hate Parkinson's disease.

[@kristopherdetar4346]

Every case of Parkinson’s can be different with progression and intensity. Sorry to hear this about Mr. Alda. Great person and have enjoyed his performances over the decades. God Bless him.

[@kerrybrunt]

My husband was diagnosed. I am struggling. What a great outlook you have.

[@dianed.3335]

8 Thumbs down??? Really, people? I pray neither you nor someone you love is ever diagnosed with Parkinson's. Blessings, Mr. Alda.

[@perryryan1618]

Alan Alda is the GOAT. A close family member of mine was diagnosed with Parkinson's about a year ago. This man gives me hope and inspires me. I'm happy people like him and Michael J. Fox are open about their conditions and working to find a cure.

[@muffin_gamers]

What a positive human being. It seems like he helped write Hawkeye to be a version of himself, not a brand new character to take on. I mean look at the energy he brings into an interview all these years later.

[@daltong75]

Truly amazing man...and pure gold on M*A*S*H back in the day. His comedic timing was so effortless. :-)

[@theclapaolini4322]

A big God Bless you God loves you unconditionally

[@barbaracarr2710]

An amazing man, he just goes ahead and keeps on living his life. Alan Alda is a remarkable man. I love Hawkeye and may you live many more years. He has such a positive attitude. God bless.

[@OmegaWolf747]

Love this guy. I also love his idea of communicating science to lay people in an understandable way.

[@teresalockamy5857]

Love you alan alda what a great actor you are. God bless you! You are in my prayers. What a inspiration you are! Jesus loves you. 💝💝💝💝💝💝💝💝

[@eighttrack3657]

Is there a better human on earth than Alan Alda?

[@jonbbaca5580]

Thank you so much. I'm only 32, but my dad died from dementia, my grandpa died from Parkinsons, and my uncle died from a brain tumor. I'm worried about my brain. But knowing that you're dedicating funds to research this stuff, it truly means a lot. I'm tearing up! Thanks

[@MusicInMyJeans]

Degenerative neurological diseases are definetly deserving of the world's attention.Unfortunatly, it's just not talked about that much.I lost my grandpa to Alzheimer's & can relate w/the fear of "what if?" A proactive test exists, but from what I understand it only confirms if you hold the gene; whether the gene "turns on" depends on a combination of medical history, environmental factors, diet,& other variables.Even if it's positive, there's still a real chance you'd live out your life worrying about a disease that never manifests. So I think it's best to just follow Mr Alda & live a healthy lifestyle, but Live ;)

[@ricks.1318]

What a true "CLASS ACT" Mr Alda IS ...... LOVE this man's attitude, and his honesty !! A gifted actor, a man of great intelligence, always WANTING to HELP mankind, .... while so many others do their best to degrade mankind !!! I wish him the very BEST !!!!!!!

[@kittitude]

He's the actor I want to meet more than any other famous person. He's awesome!

[@doc1029]

Mr Alda, I am 58 and was diagnosed with Parkinson's 2 years ago. Such a challenging disease. I will pray for you sir.

[@elia.8993]

He is chilled because he has no symptoms and he was diagnosed at his senior age. Michal J Fox can't say the same because he was diagnosed at 29 and his symptoms have got worse over the years. It is different when an old person gets a disease because they pretty much have nothing to lose they are almost gone, but for a younger person, it can be drastic.

[@tammym7940]

Absolutely love Alan Alda. Such s kind hearted soul

[@doraturner4674]

Alan, has always been MANY WONDERFUL thgs for yrs., inspiration is definitely one & now an even BIGGER INSPIRATION!!! Thank u deeply for sharing to help others! MANY BLESSINGS

[@danniep2737]

Who is here because they heard Bill Hader’s impression and wanted to see how accurate he is? Just me.......ok

[@Workingartist1]

Alan Alda is such an amazing role model!

[@tracymetherell8744]

I have loved Alan for many years. I wish him well. I know he will live with this illness with grace.

[@bamarine247]

His voice hasn’t changed in 50 years

[@chancewebster7953]

Happy 84th birthday, Alan Alda

[@milwaukiedave]

He is one of my favorite actors. I loved him in both MASH and The West Wing. I wish him all the best.

[@stef012]

Love Marriage Story.He looks so cute,I want to hug him😭

[@jonroux9291]

One of my all time favorite actors. It's sad to watch him shaking. :(

[@laserqueen25andrew92]

God bless you Mr. Alda! Your outlook is incredible.

[@joycelarwood5334]

god bless you such a great actor...

[@mikew7303]

He is still a very quick wit with age and now with Parkinson's. I wish I could meet him just once.

[@neptunestardust]

Alan is possibly one of the BEST role models that you could ever have. He’s positive, optimistic, open minded, kind. Sending all my love to you Alan❤️

[@Jennifer62389]

I'm so sorry 😭 I watch almost every four a day, five days awake. And I saw the originals when young. I appreciate them as a 60+ person.

[@charlesdell2864]

Pray to God we don't lose this great man, and actor, for a long time.

[@gwenkeno9436]

I love Alan Alda and his upbeat personality. He's not letting Parkinson pull him down. I wish alot of people could hear this pod cast. YOU GO ALLEN. 😂❤❤

[@fishpimp8584]

Thanks Mr. Alda. I too have PD...approx. 3 years when I was 49. Definitely worried about my future, but your discussion has helped.

[@topsyturvyy4558]

Mr. Alda is not only a legend but also a medicine man, he knows that Parkinson's is not the end of the world, it is just a difficult situation.

[@andreatamati9813]

thx you for this Alan.

[@whatshisname3304]

my uncle had parkinsons for 10 years before he died, and it did nt progress to a severe level. he died of something unrelated.

[@brettplum]

truly an amazing man and a real inspiration to me. I also remember a movie he starred in many years ago where he is jailed for accidental manslaughter after a car accident and the horrible coruption he finds inside the jail. An incredible man....

[@Talvec12]

"The Glass House"! I cried buckets over that movie! God bless you, Mr. Alda.

[@janicedelisle9500]

Many hours of enjoyment frm watching Mash -great actor and person!

[@84953]

What an amazing man with an amazing attitude! I watched many of the "Scientific American Frontiers" and how much he was so involved and fascinated by many of the stories. Especially the medical stuff that involved people.

[@lauraaday3230]

I am 51 yrs old my dad had it and so did his dad. I was diagnosed with parkinson's. I am taking levodopa carbadopa and it helps but I still have symptoms. I use a walker. I have a wonderful neurologist. She takes good care of me. I was told usually u get it in ur 60s. Mine i believe is hereditary

[@cplcabs]

I don't often want to meet people, but I would like to meet him. I wish him well.

[@lesliewolfe7643]

What a great man! A positive attitude in the face of a scary situation! I swear he never seems to age! A little older around the eyes but he looks remarkably good for his age. The hair has gone grey but his face and voice make me feel like I'm still looking at Captain Hawkeye Pierce!

[@georgemaster689]

Alan's speech speed has slowed a bit, but he's still a smart man.

[@vincentharris8552]

What a talented man. I wished he would have written and directed more. I hope he does. If he can.If he will.

[@jeanmasonmcmahon2515]

Thank you Alan Alda God Bless you!