Bruce Willis has dementia, according to his family.
Bruce Willis has frontotemporal dementia, according to his family.
In a social media post, they expressed their relief at having a definitive diagnosis.
The 67-year-old was diagnosed with aphasia, which causes speech difficulties, in the spring of last year, but his condition has worsened and he has been given a more precise diagnosis, according to his family.
They expressed their “deepest appreciation for the overwhelming display of love.”
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The family went on to say that frontotemporal dementia is the most prevalent form of dementia in individuals under the age of 60.
“Currently, there are no treatments for the disease, a situation we hope will change in the coming years,” stated the statement.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Willis became a household name after starring in blockbuster films such as Die Hard, The Sixth Sense, Armageddon, and Pulp Fiction.
In addition, he has been nominated for five Golden Globes, winning one for Moonlighting, and three Emmys, winning two.
Last year, however, his family reported that Willis would give up acting due to the cognitive impairments caused by his aphasia.
In a new statement released on Thursday, it was stated that they hoped media coverage would increase awareness of the actor’s condition.
It read: “Bruce has always believed in the importance of using his voice to help others and raise public and private awareness about important issues.
“We know in our hearts that, if he were alive today, he would want to bring global attention to those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it affects so many individuals and families.”
The statement was signed by members of Willis’s family, including his wife Emma Heming and their two daughters, as well as his ex-wife Demi Moore and their three daughters.
The prominent advocate for brain disorder patient care and research, US journalist Maria Shriver, tweeted: “My sympathies go out to Bruce Willis and his family, and I appreciate your efforts to shed light on this disease.
“When people take initiative, it benefits all of us. When people receive a diagnosis, it is extremely difficult, but also a relief for the majority.”
Aaron Paul, who starred in the American television crime drama Breaking Bad, described Willis as “such a damn legend” and added, “I love you so much, my friend!”
Queen Latifah, an American singer and actress, wrote in an Instagram post: “God bless you, dear brother! all best wishes. Thank you and your family for providing so much enjoyment!!!”
Multiple sclerosis patient Selma Blair simply wrote, “Sending love.”
According to the NHS website in the United Kingdom, frontotemporal dementia is a “rare” form of the disease that causes problems with behavior and language.
Symptoms also include slow or rigid movements, loss of bladder or bowel control – although this typically occurs later on – and weakness of the muscles.
