Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), his family announced.
The 67-year-old actor was diagnosed in March 2022 with aphasia, a condition affecting the brain which causes difficulty with language and speech, causing him to retire from acting.
The statement about the progression of his condition was signed by his current wife, Emma Heming Willis, and his former wife Demi Moore, as well as his children Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, and Evelyn.
“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.”
The NHS said FTD causes problems with behaviour and language and affects the front and sides of the brain.
The family said Willis had received “an outpouring of love and compassion” over the past ten months.
“Your generosity of spirit has been overwhelming, and we are tremendously grateful for it”, they said.
