Gena Rowlands Cause of Death: Beloved Hollywod star dies at 94

Hollywood is mourning the loss of a true icon. Gena Rowlands, the legendary actress who brought depth and soul to her roles, has passed away at 94. Known for her unforgettable performance in “The Notebook,” Rowlands succumbed to complications related to Alzheimer’s disease, marking the end of an era in classic cinema.

Sources close to the family confirmed to TMZ that Rowlands took her final breath Wednesday afternoon in her Indian Wells, California, home. Surrounded by family, including her husband Robert Forrest and daughter Alexandra “Xan” Cassavetes, the beloved actress peacefully departed, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire.

Nick Cassavetes, her son and the director of “The Notebook,” was by her side frequently in the days leading up to her passing. It was an emotional time for the family, as they grappled with the heartbreaking reality of losing the matriarch who had played such a significant role in their lives, both on and off the screen.

While the presence of her other daughter, Zoe Cassavetes, at the time of her death remains unclear, the close-knit family shared their grief, bound together by the love and memories they had created with Rowlands over the years.

Nick Cassavetes Reflects on His Mother’s Battle with Alzheimer’s and Her Iconic Role in ‘The Notebook'”

The exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed, but Nick Cassavetes had previously opened up about his mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s during the 20th anniversary of “The Notebook.” He revealed that the disease had a profound impact on Rowlands, especially given her role as Allie, a character who also struggles with Alzheimer’s in the film.

In a poignant reflection, Nick shared how life imitated art in the most tragic of ways. “She acted it, and now she’s lived it,” he said, highlighting the cruel twist of fate that saw his mother embodying the very illness that would later take hold of her own mind.

Rowlands had once spoken about the emotional toll her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s had on her, a battle that influenced her decision to take on the role of Allie. In a candid interview with O Magazine, she admitted that without her son directing the film, she might not have had the strength to portray such a difficult character.

Gena Rowlands’ career was defined by her powerful performances, particularly in her collaborations with her late husband, John Cassavetes. Together, they created cinematic masterpieces like “A Woman Under the Influence” and “Gloria,” both of which earned her Oscar nominations. Her final film role was in the 2014 comedy “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks,” after which she quietly stepped away from Hollywood, leaving behind a legacy that few can match.