The family of Bruce Willis, 69, is standing firm as the actor grapples with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). His former wife, Demi Moore, recently provided updates on his condition, shedding light on their experience with the progressive brain disease.
Moore, 62, informed CNN that Willis’ condition is stable, and the family is adjusting to their new circumstances. “I’ve shared this before, but I really mean this so sincerely,” she stated. “It’s so crucial for anyone dealing with this to meet them where they are truly, and from that position, there is such love and joy. There’s a significant loss, but there’s also immense beauty.”
His wife Emma first attributed Willis’s initial subtle changes to his childhood stutter. However, Willis started having more apparent communication issues while filming as his symptoms advanced. Emma later unveiled these early signs in a frank conversation with Today, underlining the importance of early symptom recognition.
During Willis’ final years of acting, signs of cognitive changes became evident. The Los Angeles Times documented his struggles with dialogue recall, resulting in reduced lines and an increased reliance on body doubles for action sequences. In one alarming occurrence, Willis “had fired a gun on the wrong cue” during a shoot, as per crew members who worked with him in his last years on set.
Willis, famous for his role as John McClane in the “Die Hard” series, has been a constant presence in Hollywood. He has starred in massive hits such as “Pulp Fiction” (1994), “The Sixth Sense” (1999), and “Armageddon” (1998). His versatility in action, drama, and comedy has solidified his position as one of his generation’s most recognizable stars.
In spring 2022, the family made Willis’ initial diagnosis of aphasia public. By February 2023, the family released a more specific diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia.
In their official statement via the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD), the family expressed their appreciation for the public’s support, highlighting Bruce’s lifelong dedication to aiding others: “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 all of us.”
Frontotemporal dementia is a group of brain disorders impacting personality, behavior, language, and decision-making. According to medical experts at Northwestern University’s Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology in Illinois, FTD affects the highest percentage of people aged 45 to 64 in the U.S., making it the most common form of dementia in those under 60.
Medical professionals at the Medical University of South Carolina detail that FTD exhibits two primary forms: the behavioral variant, which affects personality and social behavior, and primary progressive aphasia, which impacts language abilities. Life expectancy after diagnosis typically ranges from 7 to 13 years, although individual experiences can significantly differ.
The actor’s family has implemented a coordinated care plan, ensuring someone is always with Willis. His current wife, Emma, his daughters, and his former wife, Moore, synchronize their schedules to provide maximum support. The family prioritizes fostering joy and connection, adjusting activities to accommodate Willis’ daily condition.
The extended family, including his daughters Rumer, 36, Scout, 33, Tallulah, 30, with Moore, and Mabel and Evelyn with Emma, form a robust support system. Moore continues her weekly visits in Los Angeles, California, showcasing the family’s commitment to unity during this challenging period. “Bruce’s family has remained supportive and close-knit throughout his health challenges,” People magazine reported.
Moore’s dedication to Willis extends beyond mere visits. Recent reports indicate that she is actively coordinating with Emma to help manage his care, often adjusting her schedule to be available when necessary. Despite many professional obligations, including recent award nominations and industry recognition, Moore has prioritized supporting her ex-husband and their blended family.
Moore’s own Hollywood career spans several decades, with notable roles in Ghost (1990), A Few Good Men (1992), and Indecent Proposal (1993), and a recent critically acclaimed performance in The Substance (2024).
Emma is a powerful advocate for FTD awareness and caregiver support. She divulges their daily victories and setbacks through social media and public appearances, aiding other families in navigating similar experiences. Her advocacy efforts have involved collaboration with the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration to provide resources for other affected families.
The family’s decision to share their journey has had a tangible impact. Following their announcement, the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration reported a marked increase in public awareness and support. Their openness has assisted other families in identifying early symptoms and seeking appropriate medical evaluation, tackling the crucial issue of delayed diagnosis that plagues many FTD patients.