In a recent interview, renowned actor Chris Hemsworth opened up about his desire to be remembered in light of his discovery that he has a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease. Hemsworth, best known for his role as Thor, announced that he would be taking a significant break from acting after uncovering this shocking health revelation during the filming of the National Geographic docu-series, Limitless with Chris Hemsworth.

Through a genetic test, Hemsworth discovered that he carries two copies of the APOE4 gene, which has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. He was informed that he is “eight to ten more times more likely” to develop the condition compared to the average person.

This revelation holds personal significance for Hemsworth, as his late grandfather, Martin, had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Reflecting on his own legacy, the actor expressed his hope that people would speak fondly of him after his passing, just as they did for his grandfather.

“My uncle specifically said, ‘he’s remembered as a good bloke’. And if he knew, or if someone told him that’s how he would be remembered, how incredibly proud he would feel,” Hemsworth explained to British GQ. “It made me think about my own life. And it wasn’t about career or anything. It was about being remembered as someone who was good and kind and contributed something of value. I hope that people think of me fondly and that I was a good person. That I was a good bloke. Like my grandpa.”

Prioritizing Meaningful Projects and Legacy

Hemsworth emphasized the importance of leaving behind a positive impact rather than a “pile of rubbish.” In light of his newfound awareness of his health condition, he now carefully considers whether potential projects are worthy of his time and contribute something meaningful.

“Everything has more importance now, because of the realization that this isn’t going to last forever,” Hemsworth shared.

Despite his decision to take time off, Hemsworth humorously referred to himself as “unemployed” after not working for seven months. During this period, he has been cherishing quality time with his wife, Elsa Pataky, and their three children, India (10) and twin boys Tristan and Sasha (9).

Coming to Terms with Aging and Mortality

Approaching his milestone 40th birthday, Hemsworth admitted that he still feels youthful and doesn’t perceive his age accurately.

“I don’t think I wanna turn 40. I still feel like I’m 25 and I’ve got heaps of time. Now I’m like, ‘Oh, I could be halfway. More than halfway.’ It is a lot of time. If I get there! The reality of ‘I’m not going to be here forever’ is sinking in,” Hemsworth reflected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What did Chris Hemsworth discover about his health?

Chris Hemsworth discovered through a genetic test that he carries two copies of the APOE4 gene, which has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. This revelation means he is significantly more likely to develop Alzheimer’s in the future.

2. How does Chris Hemsworth want to be remembered?

Chris Hemsworth expressed his desire to be remembered as a good and kind person who contributed something of value. He hopes people will think of him fondly, just as they did for his late grandfather.

3. Why is Chris Hemsworth taking time off from acting?

Chris Hemsworth decided to take a break from acting after discovering his genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease. This revelation has prompted him to reevaluate his priorities and ensure that the projects he chooses to work on have genuine meaning.

4. How does Chris Hemsworth feel about turning 40?

Approaching his 40th birthday, Chris Hemsworth admitted that he still feels youthful and doesn’t perceive his age accurately. However, he acknowledges the reality that life is finite and has come to terms with the fact that he won’t be here forever.