Bruce Willis, the celebrated actor known for his iconic roles in "Die Hard," "Pulp Fiction," and "The Sixth Sense," is facing a severe health decline due to frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Recent reports indicate that the 70-year-old actor can no longer speak, read, or walk as the condition progresses.
Willis's health journey became public in March 2022 when his family announced his retirement from acting due to a diagnosis of aphasia, a condition affecting language and communication. In February 2023, his family shared a more specific diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). FTD is a neurodegenerative condition that affects behavior, speech, and motor skills. It is a cruel disease that many have never heard of and can strike anyone. For people under 60, FTD is the most common form of dementia, and because getting the diagnosis can take years, FTD is likely much more prevalent than we know.
FTD affects areas of the brain associated with behavior, personality, and language. It is distinct from Alzheimer's disease and often strikes at a younger age. There are several types of frontotemporal dementia. The umbrella term includes the behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia and primary progressive aphasia. Patients with the behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia have a progressive change in their personality where they become disinhibited or maybe apathetic and have more trouble with problem-solving when it comes to their thinking. Aphasia means lack of language and is a primary progressive disease of language.
As a result of FTD, Willis has gradually lost the ability to communicate and even recognize written words. Recent updates from family and close sources have shared a deeply sad reality. Willis, once quick with a joke and always on the move, now needs constant care. He requires full-time care and no longer remembers his illustrious career.
The news of Willis's declining health has elicited emotional reactions from fans worldwide. Many have taken to social media to express their sadness and offer support. Some reports suggest that he has lost the ability to speak, read, or walk, but the family has not confirmed the detail. What they have confirmed is that Willis's condition is worsening, and communication has become increasingly difficult.
Despite the advancement of his condition, the actor's family shared a public update in April, reassuring his followers that, although the disease is progressing, his health is considered "stable". His loved ones emphasized their continued support for the actor and the strength of their family during this difficult time.
Bruce's wife, Emma Heming Willis, has been vocal about the realities of caring for a loved one with FTD. She is set to release a memoir titled "The Unexpected Journey" in September 2025, focusing on her experiences as a caregiver and the importance of dementia awareness. In a moving tribute on Father's Day 2025, his eldest daughter, Rumer, reflected on how her relationship with her father has changed. She expressed her wish to have asked him more questions while he could still tell her about it all and shared her gratitude for being able to hold and hug him. Emma, Willis's wife, opened up about the emotional weight of being a caregiver and emphasized the resilience he has shown, saying that even in his silence, he continues to teach their family about strength, presence, and unconditional love.
While some reports suggest he has lost the ability to speak, read, or walk, the family has not confirmed the detail. What they have confirmed is that Willis's condition is worsening, and communication has become increasingly difficult. Despite ongoing public concern and speculation, the actor's family has remained transparent and appreciative of the outpouring of love from fans around the world.
Bruce Willis's case has raised global awareness of this rare and complex disease. His family continues to advocate for understanding and compassion, and fans worldwide continue to send messages of support and strength to Bruce Willis and his loved ones.
