The Hollywood legend Bruce Willis retired from acting in March of last year after he was diagnosed with aphasia. Now, his family has made the devastating revelation that he’s since been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia at the age of 67.
Pray for #BruceWillis 🤲 Actor Bruce Willis' condition has progressed to dementia, says family.@EmmaHeming pic.twitter.com/czrz2cuOuB
— Mekal Shan (@mekalshan) February 17, 2023
Willis’ Condition Escalates To Dementia
“Since we announced Bruce’s diagnosis of aphasia in spring 2022, Bruce’s condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD),” his family said in a statement posted to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration website. “Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis.”
Willis’ family went on to try to raise awareness about what FTD is.
“FTD is a cruel disease that many of us have never heard of and can strike anyone,” they explained. “For people under 60, FTD is the most common form of dementia, and because getting the diagnosis can take years, FTD is likely much more prevalent than we know.”
My heart goes out to Bruce Willis and his family, & also my gratitude for shining a much needed light on this disease. When people step forward it helps all of us. When people get a diagnosis it’s extremely difficult, but also for most a relief to get a diagnosis. pic.twitter.com/macAukMe7U
— Maria Shriver (@mariashriver) February 16, 2023
Related: Bruce Willis Retires From Acting After Devastating Diagnosis
‘No Treatment’ For FTD
The family then said that there is “no treatment” for FTD, and that they hope that as Willis suffers from it in the years ahead, “any media attention can be focused on shining a light on this disease that needs far more awareness and research.”
“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others, and to raise awareness about important issues both publicly and privately,” the statement added. “We know in our hearts that – if he could today — he would want to respond by bringing global attention and a connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families.”
“Bruce has always found joy in life – and has helped everyone he knows to do the same,” the family concluded. “It has meant the world to see that sense of care echoed back to him and to all of us. We have been so moved by the love you have all shared for our dear husband, father, and friend during this difficult time. Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible.”
The statement was signed by Willis’ ex-wife, Demi Moore, his current wife, Emma Heming, and all five of his daughters.
Almost a year after revealing Bruce Willis’ aphasia diagnosis which forced him to retire, his family say his condition has progressed and he has been diagnosed with a form of dementia.
Now, they are asking for respect as they try to help Willis “live as full a life as possible.” pic.twitter.com/CQ0SXhcQoS
— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) February 17, 2023
Related: James Woods Pays Touching Tribute To Bruce Willis After Learning Of His Career-Ending Diagnosis
Willis To Become A Grandfather
This comes months after it was revealed that Willis is set to become a grandfather for the first time, as his oldest daughter Rumer Willis is currently pregnant. A source told People Magazine back in December that Willis is “happy” about becoming a grandfather.
“He is happy about becoming a grandpa,” the insider said. “He loves having a big family. They are all spending Christmas together.”
“Bruce is enjoying not working and having more family time,” the source continued. “He likes being around his girls more.”
Rumer Willis Is Pregnant! Actress Expecting Her First Baby with Boyfriend Derek Richard Thomas pic.twitter.com/kfTgXRkZJ6
— People (@people) December 21, 2022
Willis is a legendary star who has been known for decades for his roles in movies like the Die Hard series, The Sixth Sense, Pulp Fiction, and many more. He’s far too young to receive this kind of devastating diagnosis, so please join us in praying for him and his family during this difficult time.