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Stellan Skarsgård Says Stroke Left Lasting Cognitive Effects, Used In‑Ear Prompter On Dune

He reports persistent language and memory deficits after a stroke about three years ago.

Overview

  • The 74-year-old actor disclosed in a new Vulture interview that the stroke occurred between shoots for Andor and the two Dune films.
  • He describes ongoing cognitive issues including weaker speech and argumentation, sudden name blanks, and trouble following multi‑sentence thoughts.
  • To complete Dune: Part Two he wore in‑ear headphones as a prompter fed his lines in a very fast, neutral delivery tailored to his rhythm after extensive training.
  • He says he has no motor impairment and continues to work, calling the accommodation more demanding than memorizing dialogue.
  • He recounts fear of losing independence yet expresses gratitude for what he calls “extra time,” adding, “I live. I can work.”