Retired American actor Bruce Willis was diagnosed with dementia as announced by his family on Thursday. The 67-year-old actor is suffering from frontotemporal dementia (FTD) which was later found to be the reason for his aphasia last year.
“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.”
In a statement shared by the Willis family, they also wanted to shed light on the topic of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). They shared that this disease can strike anyone yet many of us haven’t even heard of it.
FTD is the most common type of dementia for people under the age of 60. Getting a diagnosis can take years and there is currently no single treatment for this disease.
As the actor’s condition worsens, the family hopes the media can also shed more light on this disease. This is a good way to increase awareness and have more research funded.
“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 Willis family mentioned that Bruce has always found joy in life and helped everyone he knows to do the same. They also expressed how it meant for them to see that care echoed back to Bruce and his family. The continued compassion, understanding, and respect from people who support his family will help Bruce live a full life.
In March 2022, the family announced that Bruce was diagnosed with aphasia and that he would retire from acting. This condition is defined as the person’s loss of ability to communicate.
“As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him. This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion and support. We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him. As Bruce always says, ‘Live it up’ and together we plan to do just that.”
After starring in several blockbuster films in the 1980s and 90s, Willis became a household name not only in the US but also in other parts of the world. Bruce is well-known for his roles in Die Hard, The Sixth Sense, Armageddon, and Pulp Fiction.
The actor was nominated for five Golden Globes in which he won one award for Moonlighting where he portrayed the role of detective David Addison Jr. He was also nominated for three Emmys for which he won two awards for Moonlighting and Friends.
Our hearts go out to Bruce and the Willis family. Share this news with your friends and family to help raise awareness and light on a debilitating disease like FTD.