Alan Alda is most recognized for his role as Captain Benjamin Franklin “Hawkeye” Pierce in the CBS comedy TV series MASH* which aired from 1972 to 1983. Being a versatile actor, Alda also earned several credits in several films and TV shows such as Bridge of Spies, Marriage Story, The Blacklist, and The Aviator, for which he bagged an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Despite his achievements, the 89-year-old has been battling significant medical challenges, including an intestinal blockage, mental illness, and Parkinson’s disease, which he announced in 2018. Sadly, as Alda continues to navigate his health challenges, there are speculations that the actor might well be getting close to the end of his life due to recent photographs of him.
Sources reveal that Alan Alda’s recent pictures spark speculations about his health
Congratulations on your Four Seasons series on Netflix, Tina. It’s wonderful. I knew it would be, coming from Tina Fey. Can you squeeze in some time to come back on my podcast, Clear+Vivid? We can have some fun. I’m really happy for you. pic.twitter.com/YsQ87t6T1Q
— Alan Alda (@alanalda) May 11, 2025
With the latest pictures of the Flirting with Disaster actor out in the public, fans have expressed their concerns about his health. Alda appeared especially weak and tired in the images, a far cry from his usually energetic attitude.
Reacting to the photos, fans are shocked by the actor’s new look, pointing out that he was almost unrecognizable. They also speculated that based on his haggard looks, it seemed as though his continued health challenges and age had taken a significant toll on him, thus leading to rumors about him being at the last stage of his life.
Alan Alda’s friends want him to write about his mental challenges
An insider revealed that Alda’s friends, probably recognizing his current situation, are encouraging him to edit his 2005 memoir, Never Have Your Dog Stuffed: and Other Things I’ve Learned, to include the full story of his highly tumultuous life while he still has the ability.
The 89-year-old has since childhood suffered from mental health challenges and paranoia, which were further heightened by the pressures of fame. Alda, who will be releasing his second film of the year in October, has all through his life been haunted by traumatic childhood experiences stemming from the violent outbursts of his mother, Joan, a former Miss New York who had severe paranoid schizophrenia. Her delusions led her to believe those closest to her, including young Alan, were plotting her murder, thus creating a constant sense of vigilance and need to protect himself and his family.