Celebrities Who’ve Struggled with Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy body dementia (LBD), recognised as the second most prevalent form of dementia following Alzheimer’s disease, has impacted numerous public figures, leading to a growing awareness of this often misunderstood condition. Unlike Alzheimer’s, LBD does not typically present with memory loss; instead, symptoms may include visual hallucinations, movement disorders resembling those seen in Parkinson’s disease, depression, and cognitive difficulties. The severity of its effects can be devastating, as highlighted by country music star Faith Hill who poignantly remarked on the struggle of watching a loved one become unrecognisable.

Among notable individuals diagnosed with LBD is Ted Turner, the media mogul and founder of CNN. Turner publicly revealed his diagnosis in 2018, describing it as a “mild case” of the disease. His illustrious career saw him revolutionise news broadcasting with the introduction of the 24-hour news cycle. Turner, who famously had a high-profile marriage to actress Jane Fonda, passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 87. His journey with Lewy body dementia has raised awareness regarding the lesser-known impacts of the illness.

The case of the late Robin Williams also draws significant attention to LBD. The beloved comedian and actor’s struggle with the disease became widely known following his tragic death by suicide in 2014. At the time, he was grappling with undiagnosed LBD, which his widow, Susan Williams, later revealed made him painfully aware of his deteriorating mental state. In an emotional reflection, she stated, “Robin was very aware that he was losing his mind and there was nothing he could do about it.” This heartbreaking insight has sparked important conversations about mental health and the serious consequences of untreated neurological conditions.

Faith Hill shared the profound grief she experienced while witnessing her father, Ted Perry, battle Lewy body dementia. Hill’s father passed away in 2019, only two years after the death of her mother. Speaking to PEOPLE in 2021, she expressed the immeasurable heartache of losing both parents in such a short timeframe: “It was difficult to watch a man you know be someone that you don’t recognise.” Her experience underscores the personal toll that LBD can take on families.

Estelle Getty, renowned for her role on the sitcom “The Golden Girls,” also faced the challenges posed by Lewy body dementia. Early symptoms affected her ability to remember her lines, leading to misconceptions among colleagues regarding her behaviour on set. Notably, while only a handful of people were aware of her condition, the Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress eventually retired in 2001 due to her health issues, passing away in 2008 at the age of 84. Getty’s story highlights the often hidden struggles faced by many with this disease.

Musician Mark Volman, a founding member of the ’60s band The Turtles, received his LBD diagnosis in 2020. Despite the challenges posed by the condition, he maintained a positive outlook, stating, “I feel good. My friends are here. I’m still here. And I want people to connect with me.” Volman’s perspective serves as a reminder of the resilience that many individuals with chronic illnesses demonstrate when facing life’s adversities. He died in 2025 after experiencing a short, unexpected illness.

The Bezos family also faced the repercussions of Lewy body dementia with the death of Jackie Bezos, mother of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Jackie passed away at the age of 78 in August 2025, after a long battle with the disease. In a heartfelt tribute, Jeff Bezos shared that his mother had been surrounded by loved ones during her final moments, emphasising the love and support she received throughout her life. Such expressions of unity reflect the significant emotional impact this illness has on families.

Sporting legend Tom Seaver, a Hall of Fame pitcher for the New York Mets, succumbed to the dual challenges of Lewy body dementia and COVID-19. He died on August 31, 2020, at the age of 75. Over his illustrious career, Seaver achieved numerous accolades including being a 12-time All-Star. His passing not only mourned the loss of a sports icon but also served as a sobering reminder of the disease’s reach extending beyond the entertainment industry into the realm of athletics.

In conclusion, Lewy body dementia remains an under-recognised but impactful condition affecting many high-profile individuals across various fields. The experiences of Turner, Williams, Hill, Getty, Volman, Bezos, and Seaver bring to light the complexities of living with LBD. Their stories not only raise awareness about the symptoms and struggles associated with this form of dementia but also highlight the importance of compassion and understanding for those affected by such debilitating illnesses.