Emma Heming Willis has given her first public update about husband Bruce Willis' condition, revealing that while the Hollywood star remains physically healthy, his "brain is failing him". The 70-year-old Die Hard actor was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia more than three years ago.
Speaking to ABC News, Emma explained that Bruce "is still very mobile" and "in really great health overall". She said: "It's just his brain that is failing him."
The disease has significantly affected Bruce's ability to communicate. Emma said: "The language is going, and, you know, we've learned to adapt. And we have a way of communicating with him, which is just a... different way."
Current condition
According to the Daily Mail, Bruce became "subdued" and "cold" before his diagnosis, a stark contrast to his normally warm and affectionate personality. Frontotemporal dementia affects approximately 50,000 to 60,000 Americans compared to over six million with Alzheimer's disease, making it a relatively rare condition.
The Daily Mail reports that patients typically require full-time care within three to five years of diagnosis according to UCLA neurologists. Emma initially felt "panicked" and like she was "freefalling" when first hearing the diagnosis she "couldn't pronounce".
Despite the progression of his condition, the family still experiences precious moments with Bruce. Emma described seeing flashes of his true personality and "the twinkle in his eye".
She said: "Not days, but we get moments. It's his laugh, right? He has such a hearty laugh. And sometimes you'll see that twinkle in his eye, or that smirk, and I just get transported."
Caregiving advocacy
Emma admitted she initially thought she had to help Bruce entirely by herself, leading to sleepless nights and social withdrawal. She has since become an advocate for fellow carers facing similar challenges.
Her upcoming book, "The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path", aims to serve as a guide for other families affected by dementia. The book is intended as a roadmap for carers whose lives may be similarly affected by the condition.
The blended family, including Emma and Bruce's two young daughters and his three daughters with former partner Demi Moore, continues to support each other through this journey.
Emma's interview features in ABC's special "Emma & Bruce Willis: The Unexpected Journey", which aired on Tuesday and is available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu.
Sources used: "ABC News", "BBC", "Daily Mail", "Independent" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
