'Die Hard' star Bruce Willis diagnosed with untreatable dementia, announces family

Hollywood star Bruce Willis, who retired from acting last year due to aphasia, has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. His family shared the news on Thursday via a statement posted to the website for the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. His wife Emma Heming, his ex-wife Demi Moore and their three daughters- three daughters: Rumer Willis, Scout Willis and Tallulah Willis- revealed that Willis's aphasia had progressed into a diagnosis of dementia. They wrote that problems with language and memory are just one of the symptoms of the disease Bruce faces.

‘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). 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,’ the statement read.

Calling FTD a ‘cruel disease’, the family hopes that 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. 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,’ the statement added.

‘Bruce has always found joy in life – and has helped everyone he knows to do the same. 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 family concluded.

In March 2022, the family announced that Bruce Willis would not return to acting as he was diagnosed with Aphasia, a condition where a person loses the ability to communicate.