Bruce Willis Retiring From Acting Following Aphasia Diagnosis

Kelli Boyle
5 Comments
Bruce Willis
ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images

Bruce Willis is retiring from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia — a language disorder caused by brain damage that impairs one’s ability to communicate. His family announced the news on social media on March 30.

“To Bruce’s amazing supporters, as a family we wanted to share that our beloved Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia, which is impacting his cognitive abilities,” the joint statement from his family reads. “As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him.”

“This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion and support,” it continues. “We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him. As Bruce always says, ‘Live it up’ and together we plan to do just that.”

The statement was signed by Willis’ wife, Emma Heming, ex-wife Demi Moore, and daughters Rumer Willis, Scout Willis, Tallulah Willis, Mabel Willis, and Evelyn Willis.

 

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A post shared by Rumer Willis (@rumerwillis)

Aphasia can occur suddenly after a stroke or head injury, or develop slowly from a growing brain tumor or other disease. Those with aphasia struggle to understand and express written and verbal language.

While there is no cure for aphasia, the underlying cause can be addressed and treated. Speech therapy is a common form of treatment and can reportedly help improve symptoms with time. Willis’ family did not disclose the underlying cause of the actor’s diagnosis.

Willis’ decades-long career has produced over 100 acting credits across TV and film. Some of his most memorable film performances include the Die Hard franchise and The Sixth Sense.

Willis has won two Emmys for his appearances on TV. He won Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Moonlighting in 1987 and Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for Friends in 2000. He also won a Golden Globe for Moonlighting in 1987.

Bruce Willis



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  1. A

    Antonio Montealegre

    From "Moonlighting" to the last of the Die Hard franchise, Bruse Willis has managed to be entertaining for the last 35 years!

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  2. O

    OrangeController

    So sad to hear this news about Bruce. He crossed my mind during the Oscars when Woody Harrelson complained about never getting an Oscar. For some reason i thought of Bruce also never getting one -maybe bc they’ve have both been at it since the 80s, they often act in people-pleasers that don’t get considered for Oscars…and they kind have similar looks these days. And it struck me that we haven’t seen much of Bruce lately.

    My mom suffered from aphasia after a debilitating stroke. It can be worked around somewhat depending on many things. Everything to do with the brain is extremely variable…it comes down to each patient, what’s going on in each case. Fingers crossed for a good outcome for Bruce.

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  3. G

    GreenWrench

    Bruce is an extremist Trump Republican which affects the tough guy roles he chooses.

    As another human being I feel sorry for him since acting is his life!

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    1. P

      PurpleScooter

      And what does politics have to do with this issue. Oh I know NOTHING. I’m praying for Bruce. Maybe you too

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      1. G

        GoldScooter

        Some people are just overly obsessed with politics and don't have a life.

        3