Actor Alan Alda Reveals Throwing Pillows at Wife Was Early Sign of Parkinson's
90-year-old actor Alan Alda disclosed that his initial Parkinson’s symptom was REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, causing him to physically act out dreams. He described throwing a pillow at his wife, Arlene, while dreaming of an attack. This occurred when he was 79, years before his 2015 diagnosis. Alda emphasizes humor and connection in managing the condition, noting he has no current tremors or voice issues.
Key points
- Alda’s first symptom was REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), where the body fails to paralyze during dreaming.
- He physically threw a pillow at his wife Arlene while dreaming of an attacker, mistaking it for a sack of potatoes.
- This symptom appeared when Alda was 79; he was formally diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2015.
- Alda reports no current tremors, stiffness, or voice problems, attributing his management to humor and adaptability.
- RBD is linked to alpha-synuclein protein buildup, which can precede neurodegenerative diseases by years.
Background
Alda’s disclosure follows recent coverage of his 2025 interview where he framed Parkinson’s as a 'hobby' rather than a defining identity. Previous reports highlighted that RBD and other sleep disturbances are often overlooked early indicators of Parkinson’s, appearing years before motor symptoms like tremors. Alda has also previously discussed experiencing prosopagnosia, or face blindness, alongside his condition.
How outlets are covering it
The New York Post focuses on the medical mechanics of RBD, detailing how alpha-synuclein buildup affects the brainstem and citing statistics on progression risks. CBS News emphasizes Alda’s personal narrative, highlighting his use of humor to cope and his long-standing advocacy for clear communication in science. While the Post highlights the diagnostic timeline, CBS centers on his emotional resilience and the impact of his 'M*A*S*H' legacy on his approach to life.
Why it matters
This case illustrates that non-motor symptoms like sleep disturbances can precede Parkinson’s diagnosis by a decade. It underscores the importance of recognizing RBD as a risk factor, as studies show a high percentage of RBD patients develop neurodegenerative conditions within 10-14 years. It also highlights the role of psychological adaptation in managing chronic neurological disorders.
What to watch
Alda will continue his advocacy through the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science and his podcast 'Clear+Vivid.' Medical professionals may see increased awareness of RBD as a diagnostic marker for Parkinson’s, potentially leading to earlier interventions. No new treatments are expected, but public discourse may shift toward recognizing sleep behaviors as critical health indicators.
- Alan Alda reveals the strange sleep habit that led to his Parkinson’s diagnosis — it ‘was not that well-known’ New York Post
- Alan Alda on fighting Parkinson's with laughter CBS News
- Alan Alda opens up about Parkinson’s diagnosis: ‘I don’t want to wish it away’ Entertainment Weekly
- M*A*S*H Star Alan Alda Gets Candid on Parkinson’s at 90: ‘I Gotta Accept’ Yahoo
- Alan Alda, 90, Reveals the Strange Parkinson’s Symptom He Had Before a Tremor Men's Journal
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