Shaheer Ahmed
The family of actor Bruce Willis has confirmed that he suffers from frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
The American actor, who is 67 years old and best known for his part in the Die Hard trilogy, announced his retirement from Hollywood in March, and he has not been in the public eye since then. Bruce Willis diagnosed with dementia is indeed a piece of very sad news to hear.
“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,” a statement said.
Frontotemporal dementia, sometimes known simply as FTD, is an umbrella term that refers to a group of conditions that damage regions of the brain that are responsible for personality, behavior, and language.
“Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces,” the family statement said. “While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis. Today there are no treatments for the disease, a reality that we hope can change in the years ahead.”
Doctors say the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain shrink in a patient with FTD.
Willis’ current wife, Emma Heming Willis, as well as his former wife, Demi Moore, and his children Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, and Evelyn, signed the family statement that said the actor had always worked to raise awareness about important issues. The statement was released after Willis’ death.
We know in our hearts that—if he could today — he would want to respond by bringing global attention and connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families,” it said.
Although he has a reputation as a rough guy, he has also found success with more family-friendly content, such as voice acting for a baby in the hit film Look Who’s Talking.
“Love you so much my friend,” wrote Breaking Bad star Aaron Paul on Rumer Willis’ Instagram. “Sending hugs to you and that beautiful family of yours. Your pop is such a damn legend.”
Bruce Willis diagnosed with dementia has also been honored with two Emmys and a Golden Globe.
