Chris Hemsworth Reveals Father's Alzheimer's Diagnosis... "I Will Face It with My Family"

Actor Chris Hemsworth, who is globally loved for his role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has revealed that his father Craig Hemsworth is battling Alzheimer's disease, and the family has created a documentary about their journey facing the illness.

Set to air on November 23 on National Geographic and available the next day on Disney Plus and Hulu, 'A Road Trip to Remember' captures a journey across Australia on motorcycles with his 71-year-old father Craig, reviving past memories.

'High Risk' Discovered Through Genetic Testing

During the filming of National Geographic's documentary series 'Limitless' in 2022, Chris Hemsworth learned that he has two copies of the APOE4 gene, which significantly increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's.

According to the Mayo Clinic, having one copy of the APOE4 variant increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's by 2 to 3 times, while having two copies raises the risk by 8 to 12 times.

Now 42, Hemsworth stated, "It was shocking to learn this fact," but added, "My father's diagnosis brought an abstract possibility into reality", confessing the impact his father's battle has had on him. He emphasized that while this diagnosis brings fear and anxiety, it has also served as a motivation to "not take life for granted".

Focusing on Memories During the Journey with His Father

Father Craig is already experiencing early symptoms of Alzheimer's, including memory and cognitive decline. Chris shared his father's positive attitude, stating, "My father has an amazing perspective on all of this," and that it has motivated him to capture as many memories as possible and revive old ones.

The documentary explores the scientific basis for how social connections, reminiscence therapy, and nostalgia stimulate mental activity and enhance well-being. In fact, a study published in Japan in 2024 found that an 8-week group therapy session significantly improved patients' morale.

Reassessing Life and Continuing Acting Career

Following this diagnosis, Hemsworth has completely reassessed his way of life. He has a daughter, India, and twin sons, Sasha and Tristan, with his wife Elsa Pataky, and he stated, "I no longer want to sprint through life while watching my children grow. I just want to sit back and absorb those moments".

He denied retirement rumors, confirming his return as Thor in the upcoming 'Avengers: Doomsday', set to be released in 2026, and his appearance in 'Crime 101' alongside Barry Keoghan, but made it clear that he intends to slow down his work pace and prioritize family and brain health.

Recently, Hemsworth has been reported to have started stem cell therapy using MUSE cells, which have the ability to repair damaged tissues, at a regenerative medicine clinic.

The documentary 'A Road Trip to Remember' aims to share the honest and touching experiences of the Hemsworth family amidst the reality that over 57 million people worldwide live with dementia.