Ryan Reynolds Parkinson’s disease advocacy has gained renewed attention as he shares an emotional tribute to his mother’s dedication during his father’s illness, highlighting the importance of support and open conversations about the disease. Reynolds recently discussed how his family’s experience with Parkinson’s shaped his mission, emphasizing the weight that falls on both patients and caregivers.
Shining a Light on Family Sacrifice in the Face of Parkinson’s
Ryan Reynolds recently addressed the crucial but often overlooked role of caregivers, recalling the profound impact Parkinson’s disease had on his family after his father, James Chester Reynolds, was diagnosed when Ryan was 22. The actor described his mother’s unwavering effort as she supported her husband through his illness and ultimately until his passing several years later.
“I watched my mom give her last drop of blood to caregiving and taking care of my father,”
—Ryan Reynolds, Actor
“You’re not practicing self-care in any way sometimes, and you just kind of have nothing left.”
—Ryan Reynolds, Actor
Reynolds underlined that the disease doesn’t just affect those diagnosed, but deeply burdens those close to them, as caregivers can become exhausted while prioritizing the patient’s needs.
Reynolds Calls for Greater Awareness and Honest Discussions
Motivated by his family’s struggle, Reynolds has taken steps to raise the profile of Parkinson’s disease, particularly the often-misunderstood symptoms such as tremors, slowed movement, unstable posture, hallucinations, delusions, and depression. His partnership with Acadia Pharmaceuticals in 2024 for the More to Parkinson’s campaign focused on hallucinations and delusions that many patients face. Additionally, in April 2025, he participated in a public event for Parkinson’s Awareness Month, urging family members and professional care teams to talk openly about their experiences and challenges.
“You’re not just talking to patients; you’re talking to the circle that’s around them,”
—Ryan Reynolds, Actor
Through such campaigns and events, Reynolds emphasized that discussing the realities of the disease helps reduce the stigma and feelings of isolation commonly associated with it.
Breaking Through Stigma and the Importance of Communication
Reflecting on the difficulties Parkinson’s brings not just to patients but to those in their orbit, Reynolds shared how misunderstood symptoms can create additional challenges, and how the lack of open dialogue contributes to these struggles.
“I think of it as a difficult situation because any kind of struggle you’re having health-wise can sometimes be stigmatized.”
—Ryan Reynolds, Actor
“When you share it, it suddenly becomes accessible, it suddenly stops being the boogeyman,”
—Ryan Reynolds, Actor
“I think he would have been much, much healthier and better off had he shared more,”
—Ryan Reynolds, Actor
He noted that sharing one’s experience and feelings helps demystify the illness, making it less frightening and more manageable. His comments suggested that more transparency could have benefited his father, as greater openness might have eased both emotional and physical burdens.
The Value of Advocacy and Looking Ahead
Ryan Reynolds recognizes that his platform allows him to amplify the voices of patients and families coping with Parkinson’s disease. His focus on public engagement and partnering with organizations such as Acadia Pharmaceuticals highlights a growing movement to address stigma, encourage honest conversations, and improve understanding for everyone affected.
“It’s part of the gift, too, being able to have a platform.”
—Ryan Reynolds, Actor
Reynolds’s advocacy not only honors the sacrifices of caregivers like his mother but also draws attention to the continuing need for greater awareness, better resources, and supportive communities for those touched by Parkinson’s. As he and groups like Acadia Pharmaceuticals push for change, observers hope that more open communication will lead to improvements in care and quality of life for patients and their support networks.
