CNN —
The family of Bruce Willis has announced the actor is suffering from a form of dementia called frontotemporal dementia, or FTD for short.
In a statement shared Thursday, his family stated that while the news “is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis.”
“Today there are no treatments for the disease, a reality that we hope can change in the years ahead. As Bruce’s condition advances, we hope that any media attention can be focused on shining a light on this disease that needs far more awareness and research,” the statement said.
Willis’ family — including wife Emma Heming Willis, ex-wife Demi Moore and his daughters — first disclosed his diagnosis of aphasia back in 2022. They said at the time that Willis was suffering from a medical condition that was affecting his cognitive abilities and would be taking a break from acting.
“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others, and to raise awareness about important issues both publicly and privately,” his family’s new statement said. “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.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, frontotemporal dementia is an “umbrella term for a group of brain disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These areas of the brain are generally associated with personality, behavior and language.”
Willis’ most recent acting credit is “Detective Knight: Independence,” which was released in January 2023 and is the third installment of the thriller film series “Detective Knight.” He also has action movie “Assassin” slated for release next month.
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Since coming forward with the health news, the Willis women and Moore have shared several photos of Bruce enjoying life away from Hollywood on social media. He’s set to become a grandfather for the first time this year as Rumer is pregnant with her first child.
Bruce’s family announced his aphasia diagnosis in March 2022 as they revealed he would no longer be acting. Aphasia is a condition where a person loses the ability to communicate.
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“As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him,” they shared at the time. “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.”
The statement was posted by Bruce’s wife, Emma Willis, plus ex-wife Demi Moore and their three adult daughters: Rumer Willis, Scout Willis and Tallulah Willis. (Bruce also shares daughters Evelyn, 8, and Mabel, 10, with Emma.)
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