Demi Moore explained the diagnosis on Instagram
Last spring, Bruce Willis’ family announced he was stepping away from acting to deal with health issues. Yesterday, his family again took to social media to explain more. Willis has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. Over the years, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore have been the North Star of co-parenting, proving that a family doesn’t need to end following divorce.
“As a family, we wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for the outpouring of love and compassion for Bruce over the past ten months,” a statement that appears on The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration’s site reads. “Your generosity of spirit has been overwhelming, and we are tremendously grateful for it. For your kindness, and because we know you love Bruce as much as we do, we wanted to give you an update.”
The statement is signed by “Ladies of Willis/Moore”—which includes Demi Moore, Bruce’s current wife Emma Heming Willis, and Bruce’s five daughters: Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, and Evelyn.
“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),” the statement reads. “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.” FTD is the most common form of dementia for people under 60. There are no treatments for the disease currently.
Willis’ health issues have shone a spotlight on the closeness his blended family shares; but this family has been showing up for each other since… well, forever. Holidays together, milestones celebrated—they have truly been an example for people who’ve gone through an amicable divorce. That there is hope to continue to enjoy your family, together. And now, as he goes through the biggest challenge of his life, they are there supporting him, making sure to amplify his struggle in the hopes that others will benefit.
“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 family said. “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.
“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.”
