Kaylah Walton
Hollywood mourns the loss of a true legend. The renowned actress, Gena Rowlands, known for her profound portrayals, has died at the age of 94. She is remembered for her memorable performance in “The Notebook.” Rowlands passed away due to complications associated with Alzheimer’s disease, marking the end of a chapter in classic cinema.
Sources close to the family confirmed to TMZ that Rowlands breathed her last on a Wednesday afternoon at her residence in Indian Wells, California. Surrounded by her family, including her husband Robert Forrest and daughter Alexandra “Xan” Cassavetes, the beloved actress passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy that will endure.
Nick Cassavetes, her son and the director of “The Notebook,” remained by her side in the days before her passing. The family faced an emotional time as they dealt with the sorrow of losing the central figure who had played a significant role in their lives, both on and off the screen.
While the presence of her other daughter, Zoe Cassavetes, at the time of her death is uncertain, the close-knit family shared their sorrow, united by the love and memories they had cherished with Rowlands over the years.
Nick Cassavetes Reflects on Gena Rowlands’ Battle with Alzheimer’s and her Iconic Role in ‘The Notebook’
The exact cause of death has not been officially revealed, but Nick Cassavetes had previously discussed his mother’s struggle with Alzheimer’s during the 20th anniversary of “The Notebook.” He shared how the disease profoundly affected Rowlands, especially considering her portrayal of Allie, a character also battling Alzheimer’s in the movie.
In a poignant moment, Nick reflected on the overlap between life and art. “She acted it, and now she’s lived it,” he expressed, underlining the cruel twist of fate that had his mother playing a character afflicted by the same illness that would later affect her own mind.
Rowlands had once opened up about the emotional toll her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s took on her, which was a significant factor in her decision to take on the role of Allie. In an honest interview with O Magazine, she revealed that without her son directing the film, she might not have had the courage to portray such a challenging character.
Gena Rowlands’ career was characterized by her compelling performances, particularly in her collaborations with her late husband, John Cassavetes. Together, they crafted cinematic gems like “A Woman Under the Influence” and “Gloria,” both of which earned her Oscar nominations. Her final on-screen appearance was in the 2014 comedy “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks,” after which she quietly exited Hollywood, leaving behind a legacy few can rival.
