Tragic News: A Good day to Die Hard Star, Bruce Willis aged 69 Diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in February 2024 that followed an aphasia diagnosis… it’s with profound sadness and heavy heart we share the tragic news about Bruce, who has been confirmed to be… see more

It’s with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the tragic news about Bruce Willis.

The beloved actor, best known for his role in “A Good Day to Die Hard,” was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in February 2024, a year after his initial diagnosis of aphasia.

Despite the devastating diagnosis, Bruce Willis is continuing to do well, according to one of the latest updates from his family. His oldest daughter, Rumer Willis, 35, shared an optimistic update about her father’s condition during an appearance on the TODAY show on May 29. Rumer, who was promoting her upcoming residency at New York City’s Café Carlyle, mentioned that Bruce was in good spirits and enjoyed spending time with his granddaughter, Louetta.

“He’s so good,” Rumer said. “I actually got to see him right before I came out to New York. Lou is just starting to walk a little bit, and she was walking over to him, and it was so sweet.”

The Willis family first announced in March 2022 that Bruce would be stepping away from acting due to health issues. At that time, they revealed he had developed aphasia, a disorder affecting his ability to write and speak. By February 2023, the family confirmed that his condition had progressed to frontotemporal dementia, a degenerative disease primarily affecting communication and behavior.

FTD is the most common type of dementia in people under 60, and it presents differently from other types of dementia that primarily affect memory. Bruce Willis’ diagnosis has understandably been a significant adjustment for his family. Rumer noted on TODAY that his condition is “ever-evolving” and emphasized the importance of love and connection in their lives.

“The most beautiful aspect of this in a certain way is … I think sometimes our minds get in the way,” Rumer explained. “When you take away some of the stuff that gets in the way of how we all connect every day, the self-judgement or whatever it is, it’s about the connection and the love that you have. It’s so powerful and so present, which is so nice.”

In addition to Rumer’s updates, Bruce’s wife, Emma Heming Willis, has also shared insights into his condition. In March 2024, she took to Instagram to address misleading headlines about his state of mind, asserting that Bruce still finds joy in life despite his diagnosis. “I can just tell you, that is far from the truth,” Emma stated, expressing her frustration with reports suggesting Bruce had “no more joy.” She emphasized that while there is grief and sadness, there is also a new chapter filled with love, connection, joy, and happiness.

Emma Heming Willis also spoke candidly about the challenges of caregiving during an appearance on TODAY in September 2023 for World FTD Awareness Week. She highlighted that dementia is hard not only on the person diagnosed but also on the family. The Willis family’s unity and mutual support are evident in their public appearances and shared moments of love and resilience.

Despite the emotional toll of his illness, the family continues to celebrate Bruce’s life and the milestones they reach together. On his 69th birthday in March, his ex-wife Demi Moore and his children shared heartfelt messages and photos celebrating him. Rumer Willis also marked the occasion with snapshots of her father, expressing her deep love and admiration for him.

As the Willis family navigates this difficult journey, they remain grateful for the outpouring of support from fans and the public. “What’s lovely is people will stop me on the street or at the airport, wherever it is, and are so effusive about how much they love him,” Rumer shared. “It really makes me a proud daughter, honestly, to just see how much love he’s getting. It’s such a testament to who he is. He’s so beloved.”

Bruce Willis’ story is a poignant reminder of the challenges and heartache that come with neurodegenerative diseases. Yet, it also highlights the enduring power of love and family. The Willis family’s openness about Bruce’s condition has not only provided a glimpse into their personal struggles but also offered hope and solidarity to others facing similar battles.

As we reflect on Bruce Willis’ incredible career and the impact he has had on fans worldwide, we are reminded of the importance of cherishing every moment. Despite his diagnosis, Bruce continues to be surrounded by the love and support of his family, who are dedicated to making every day count.