Bruce Willis is diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia

Actor Bruce Willis is suffering from a common form of dementia known as frontotemporal dementia or FTD, according to a statement released by his family on Thursday. The family disclosed that although the news is painful, it is a relief to have a clear diagnosis. They added that there are currently no treatments for the disease, and they hope that any media attention can be focused on raising awareness and research for the debilitating disease that affects personality, behavior, and language.

Bruce Willis diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia

Willis was first diagnosed with aphasia, which affects his ability to speak and comprehend, back in 2022. His family disclosed that his condition has now progressed to FTD, and the challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease. Willis’ family, including wife Emma Heming Willis, ex-wife Demi Moore, and his daughters, hope that the media attention can help shine a light on the disease that needs more awareness and research.

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“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others and to raise awareness about important issues both publicly and privately,” the family said in the statement. “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.”

Frontotemporal dementia is an umbrella term for a group of brain disorders that affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which are associated with personality, behavior, and language, according to the Mayo Clinic. Willis’ most recent acting credit is in “Detective Knight: Independence,” released in January 2023, and he also has an action movie, “Assassin,” slated for release next month.

The family says that Bruce has always found joy in life and helped others to do the same. The love and support of fans have moved them during this difficult time, and your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable them to help Bruce live as full a life as possible.