Some sad news to report. Film superstar Bruce Willis is officially leaving behind his acting career due to a medical condition.
It has been announced that the 67-year-old actor has been diagnosed with aphasia, which can severely affect the ability to comprehend or formulate language as a result of brain damage. There are a number of causes, including stroke, head trauma, brain tumors and infections, as well as neurodegenerative disease.
Willis’ family released a statement through social media. As posted by Willis’ wife Emma Heming, ex-wife Demi Moore, and daughter Rumer Willis:
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. 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. 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.
Love,
Emma, Demi, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, & Evelyn
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Willis has at least seven films on the horizon, including action-thrillers Paradise Man, which reunites him with Pulp Fiction co-star John Travolta, and White Elephant, with John Malkovich and Olga Kurylenko.
Hollywood has been reacting to the news of Willis’ condition and decision to leave the business behind. From friends, to fans, to those that have worked with him in his lengthy and impressive career, here is a little of what is being said:
- Producer Randall Emmet, who has worked with Willis on many films over the years, told Deadline:
“Bruce and I have worked on over 20 films together. He is a terrific actor and legendary action star, an incredible father, and a close friend,” said Emmett. “I fully support Bruce and his family during this challenging time and admire him for his courage in battling this incredibly difficult medical condition. Bruce will always be part of our family.”
- John Travolta
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- M. Night Shyamalan:
All my love and respect to my big brother Bruce Willis. I know his wonderful family is surrounding him with support and strength. He will always be that hero on that poster on my wall as kid.
— M. Night Shyamalan ⌛ (@MNightShyamalan) March 31, 2022
- Haley Joel Osment:
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- Kevin Smith:
Long before any of the Cop Out stuff, I was a big Bruce Willis fan – so this is really heartbreaking to read. He loved to act and sing and the loss of that has to be devastating for him. I feel like an asshole for my petty complaints from 2010. So sorry to BW and his family. https://t.co/npSgvkb5v7
— KevinSmith (@ThatKevinSmith) March 30, 2022
- James Woods:
If you love movies, you love #BruceWillis. He has embodied everything good about the word “entertainment” for decades. Kudos to his loving family for handling difficult news with dignity and grace.
I speak for the world when I say, “We love you, Bruce.” https://t.co/pzVFdFENW2
— James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) March 30, 2022
- Seth Green:
I have so much love for Bruce Willis, and am grateful for every character he’s given us. Hugs and love for the whole family- thank you for sharing him with us all ❤️❤️ https://t.co/ct0HE1Ti2N
— Seth Green (@SethGreen) March 30, 2022
- Kirstie Alley:
Terribly Sad news. I’m just happy Bruce has such an awesome support system. Great guy great actor great family. winning combination for 🙏🏼🙏🏼❤️❤️❤️ https://t.co/1e1QlKgbVz
— Kirstie Alley (@kirstiealley) March 30, 2022
- Barbara Crampton:
I love Bruce Willis & will always love Bruce Willis. Aging & illness is hard on all, family, loved ones, friends & the person it affects directly. I heard he was ill before today. Many have been unkind. Let’s rewind & temper these thoughts about the next 1 we love who suffers
— Barbara Crampton (@barbaracrampton) March 30, 2022
- Josh Gad:
My heart goes out to Bruce Willis and his family. This cannot be easy. Sending nothing but love your way. 🙏 https://t.co/BXIMcKDAbp
— Josh Gad (@joshgad) March 31, 2022
- Dean Norris:
So sorry to hear the news about Bruce Willis. Worked with him on Death Wish and he was a lovely awesome badass man. Prayers for him and his family. Legend pic.twitter.com/28QKIoeMac
— Dean Norris (@deanjnorris) March 31, 2022
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