Veteran Days of Our Lives actor James Reynolds is opening up about a personal health battle he kept private for years. The 80-year-old actor has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and now his real-life experience will become part of the storyline for his longtime character, Abe Carver.
Reynolds discussed his diagnosis during a November 10 interview with Entertainment Tonight, where he explained that he initially believed he was successfully hiding his symptoms while continuing to work on the popular daytime soap opera.
However, the symptoms eventually became difficult to conceal, prompting the show’s writers to incorporate his real-life experience into Abe’s storyline.
“I thought I was hiding it,” Reynolds explained, acknowledging that the tremors and other physical symptoms had become noticeable to those around him.
The actor revealed that he first became concerned after experiencing persistent hand tremors and occasional balance problems. He also noticed that he was frequently short of breath, although he initially attributed that symptom to his asthma.
Reynolds shared that he had kept his diagnosis quiet for quite some time, revealing it only to a small circle of loved ones, including his wife and son. He also described the emotional challenges of dealing with the condition, particularly the difficulty of finding motivation at times.
The actor believes he may have experienced some early symptoms as far back as 15 to 20 years ago. He recalled having disturbing dreams and sometimes physically acting them out during sleep, even occasionally falling out of bed.
Parkinson’s Disease Becomes Part of Abe Carver’s Storyline
Rather than keeping the experience separate from his professional life, Reynolds and the Days of Our Lives writing team decided to bring the subject to the screen.
In the November 11 episode, Abe Carver receives his test results at the hospital, where Dr. Kayla Johnson, portrayed by Mary Beth Evans, informs him that he has Parkinson’s disease.
Reynolds believes the storyline is a natural extension of the character, describing Abe as someone who has faced numerous challenges throughout his life with strength, humor and understanding.
The actor also praised his Days of Our Lives castmates and crew for their overwhelming support since sharing his diagnosis.
Among those standing beside him is his on-screen wife, Jackée Harry, who plays Paulina Price.
45 Years of Bringing Abe Carver to Life
Reynolds has been a familiar face on Days of Our Lives since October 1981, recently celebrating an incredible 45 years portraying Abe Carver.
His contributions to daytime television have also earned him major recognition, including the 2018 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.
Despite the challenges ahead, Reynolds remains determined to continue working and hopes his decision to speak publicly will bring greater awareness to Parkinson’s disease and encourage research toward better treatments and a possible cure.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and can cause tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement and balance difficulties. Although there is currently no cure, treatments and medications can help manage symptoms.
By sharing his personal journey, Reynolds is bringing attention to a condition that affects millions of people while allowing audiences to see a meaningful real-life experience reflected through one of daytime television’s longtime characters.
Y’all Know What?! wishes James Reynolds continued strength and sends prayers and encouragement as he navigates this journey.