Gena Rowlands, a celebrated actress known for her powerful performances in independent cinema, has passed away at the age of 94, reportedly due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. The news was confirmed by her son, Nick Cassavetes, who shared that she had been battling the illness for several years. Rowlands was renowned for her roles in iconic films such as 'A Woman Under the Influence' and 'Gloria', both directed by her late husband, John Cassavetes, with whom she collaborated on ten films. She received numerous accolades throughout her career, including two Oscar nominations and an honorary Oscar in 2015. Her portrayal of an elderly woman with Alzheimer's in 'The Notebook' poignantly mirrored her real-life struggles, making her loss particularly impactful to her family and fans alike. Tributes have poured in from fans and peers, recognizing her as a luminary in the world of film.