Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with dementia, his family announces

Hollywood actor Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, his family have said.

In a statement released on social media they said it was ‘a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis’. Just last year, the 67-year-old was diagnosed with aphasia — which affects cognitive abilities such as speech — as he announced his retirement from the industry.

But his condition had progressed and Willis has been given a more specific diagnosis, his family have said.

They expressed their ‘deepest gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love’, saying: “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. Bruce has always found joy in life – and has helped everyone he knows to do the same. It has meant the world to see that sense of care echoed back to him and to all of us.

“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.”

The statement was signed by members of Willis’ family including his wife Emma Heming, former wife Demi Moore and his daughters. The family went on to say frontotemporal dementia is the most common form of dementia in people under 60, and they hoped media attention would raise awareness of the actor’s condition.

Willis became a household name in the 1980s and ’90s after starring in blockbuster films such as Die Hard, The Sixth Sense, Armageddon and Pulp Fiction. He has also been nominated for five Golden Globes – winning one for Moonlighting – and also three Emmys, where he won two.

You can read the full statement and find out more on the AFTD webpage.