US actor Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), his family has announced.
The 67-year-old 'Die Hard' star was diagnosed with aphasia in March 2022, a condition affecting the brain which causes difficulty with language and speech.
His relatives said at the time that he would be "stepping away" from acting.
A 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.
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They said: "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."
What is FTD?
The HSE describes frontotemporal dementia as "an uncommon type of dementia" that causes problems with behaviour and language.
It affects the front and sides of the brain, known as the frontal and temporal lobes.
FTD tends to start at a younger age, with most cases diagnosed in people aged 45 to 65 - although it can also affect younger or older people.
It tends to develop slowly and get gradually worse over several years.
Signs of frontotemporal dementia can include:
- personality and behavioural changes
- language problems
- problems with mental abilities
- memory problems
- physical problems
'Joy in life'
His family said Willis had received an "outpouring of love and compassion" over the past 10 months.
"Your generosity of spirit has been overwhelming, and we are tremendously grateful for it," the statement added.
The family hopes that by publicising his condition it will bring public attention to FTD, which there are currently no treatments for.
His relatives said: "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.
"Bruce has always found joy in life - and has helped everyone he knows to do the same."
Bruce Willis with Cybil Shepherd in the TV series 'Moonlighting', which originally ran from 1985 to 1989. Picture by: Pictorial Press Ltd / Alamy Stock Photo"Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible," the statement added.
Willis came to national attention alongside Cybill Shepherd in the 1980s TV hit 'Moonlighting'.
His first big film role was as John McClane in the smash hit 'Die Hard' in 1988.
He went on to star in films including 'Pulp Fiction', '12 Monkeys', 'The Fifth Element', 'Armageddon' and 'The Sixth Sense'.
Over four decades he starred in more than 100 films.
Reporting by: IRN
