Jack Hanna Diagnosed With Alzheimer's Disease

COLUMBUS, OH — Jack Hanna has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, his family announced in a public letter.

"Sadly, Dad is no longer able to participate in public life as he used to, where people all over the world watched, learned and laughed alongside him," his daughters wrote.

Hanna, 74, rose to fame and prominence as director and spokesperson for the Columbus Zoo. He made appearances on late-night shows hosted by Johnny Carson, David Letterman and James Corden. His affable personality and comfort with animals earned him several of his own TV shows, including "Jack Hanna's Animal Adventures" and "Jack Hanna's Into the Wild."

Prominent Ohioans mourned Hanna's diagnosis and offered prayers and thoughts for the Hanna family.

“Along with our fellow Ohioans, we wish Jack, Suzi, and their daughters our best as they navigate the challenges of this disease and will be keeping them in our prayers," Gov. Mike DeWine said in a statement.

TV stations and news outlets around the Buckeye State and the nation offered similar messages to the Hanna family.

The Hanna family has asked for privacy as the family moves forward, although it thanked everyone for the kind words.

"We are grateful that the many hearts he's touched over the years are with him during this journey, which gives us strength," his daughters wrote.