Bruce Willis’ family has announced that he has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.
The Hollywood star, known for his roles Die hard, The sixth Sense and Pulp Fictionretired from acting after it was announced last year that he had been diagnosed with aphasia, a language disorder that affects a person’s cognitive skills.
Bruce’s wife Emma Hemming Willis shared on social media that since his diagnosis of aphasia in the spring of 2022, his condition has progressed and thus he has been re-diagnosed.
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“Bruce’s condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD),” he wrote.
“Unfortunately, the communication challenges are only one symptom of the illness Bruce is dealing with. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis.”
The condition affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. The NHS notes that symptoms of FTD can include personality and behavior changes, difficulties with language including speaking and in later stages, difficulties with memory and some thinking processes.
Bruce’s family, including ex-wife Demi Moore and their three daughters Rumer, Scout and Tallulah, also shared a joint statement about theaftd.orgwritten with Emma and their two daughters Evelyn and Mabel.
“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others and raise awareness of important issues both publicly and privately,” it wrote.
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“We know in our hearts that – if he could today – he would want to respond by bringing global attention and a connection to those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it affects so many individuals and their families.”
He continued: “Bruce always found joy in life – and helped everyone he knew to do the same.
“It meant for the world to see that feeling of caring resonate with him and all of us. We are so touched by the love you all shared for our beloved 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.”
MYou can find information about FTD ore through the NHS, Dementia UK and AFTD.