Chris Hemsworth returns to the screen in a different role: that of son. In the new National Geographic documentary A Road Trip to Remember, the Australian actor puts his star life aside to embark on a motorbike journey across Australia with his father Craig.

The project stems from an idea that had been nurtured for years but always postponed, until Craig’s diagnosis with Alzheimer’s prompted the two to turn that desire into reality. The result is an emotionally charged journey that exceeds even Hemsworth’s own expectations.

The documentary follows father and son as they revisit places symbolic of their family history in an attempt to stimulate Craig’s memories and keep alive his connection to his identity and loved ones.

Social connections and brain health

The film highlights the importance of social relationships for mental well-being. Studies cited by Hemsworth indicate that activities such as spending time with family or feeling part of a community can help reduce the risk of dementia. The actor also points out that anyone can take immediate steps to protect their brain health.

The actor’s genetic risk: APOE4

Hemsworth had already spoken publicly about his genetic risk in 2022, in the docuseries Limitless, revealing that he has two copies of the APOE4 variant, which is associated with an increased likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s. While pointing out that risk does not equate to diagnosis, the actor chose to rethink his priorities: more time with his family, greater attention to physical and mental health.

Today, Hemsworth is an active supporter of the cause and uses his visibility to raise awareness of the issue.

The experts’ position

Samantha Benham-Hermetz, executive director of Alzheimer’s Research UK, welcomed the release of the documentary, emphasising the value of the Hemsworths’ testimony.

According to the organisation, Craig is one of more than 55 million people living with dementia globally, a number set to triple by 2050. Benham-Hermetz noted that despite years of stigma and misinformation, research is making significant progress, and contributions such as those of the Hemsworth family help bring the disease to the forefront of public discussion.