Bruce Willis' family reveal he has dementia in emotional statement
He's been diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
Hollywood actor Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) at the age of 67, his family have revealed.
Bruce, who is famed for roles in Die Hard, The Sixth Sense, and Pulp Fiction to name a few, took a step away from acting last year after being diagnosed with Aphasia, a condition which causes difficulty with speech and language.
Bruce's family released an emotional statement to reveal the sad news of his diagnosis on Thursday 16th February, taking to Instagram to write: 'Our family wanted to start by expressing our deepest gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love, support and wonderful stories we have all received since sharing Bruce’s original diagnosis. In the spirit of that, we wanted to give you an update about our beloved husband, father and friend since we now have a deeper understanding of what he is experiencing.
'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.
'To read our full statement and learn more about this disease please go to the link in our bio.
'In Love & Gratitude
'Ladies of Willis/Moore'. (sic)
The statement was signed off by the women in Bruce's family, including his wife Emma Heming Willis, his ex-wife Demi Moore, and his beloved children Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, and Evelyn.
Since announcing the news, an outpouring of support and has arrived from both fans and friends across the world.
Rita Wilson commented: 'Thank you for sharing g this with us. Sending Bruce and all the families love', with singer Demi Lovato adding: 'Sending so much love.. 🙏🏼🖤'. (sic)
Actress Sophia Bush then wrote: 'Sending love to all of you 🙏🏼🤍', with Paris Hilton commenting: 'Sending love to you all ❤️❤️❤️'. (sic)
Actor Aaron Paul commented: 'Love you so much my friend!❤️ Sending hugs to you and that beautiful family of yours. Your pops is such a damn legend.' (sic)
A fan then wrote: 'My husband had this horrible disease. You are in my thought in prayers. 🙏 I lost him 10 months ago at age 57', with a another adding: 'My dad has FTD. Thank you for bringing awareness to this horrible disease.' (sic)
Bruce's family have revealed they've made details of his diagnosis public in hope they can bring attention to the disease, which there are currently no treatments for.
They said: "As Bruce's condition advances, we hope that any media attention can be focused on shining a light on this disease that needs far more awareness and research."
According to the NHS, Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) is: 'An uncommon type of dementia that causes problems with behaviour and language. Frontotemporal dementia affects the front and sides of the brain (the frontal and temporal lobes).'
You can find out more about FTD right here.
Our thoughts are with Bruce and his family at this time.