Bruce Willis’ Wife Emma Considered Divorce Before Dementia Diagnosis

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Emma Heming Willis is sharing insight into her relationship with Bruce Willis.

As an ardent admirer, I delve into the heartfelt account penned by the author of “The Unexpected Journey: Finding Hope and Purpose on the Caregiving Path.” This remarkable book chronicles the challenging crossroads she and the legendary Die Hard star encountered prior to his frontotemporal dementia (FTD) diagnosis in November 2022. At one grim juncture, I too found myself contemplating the difficult decision of parting ways with my spouse since our union began in 2009.

Emma reminisced in an interview with Vanity Fair, published on September 5, stating that it felt as though her marriage was falling apart. She, who shares daughters Mabel Willis, aged 13, and Evelyn Willis, aged 11, with Bruce, noted unusual behavior from Bruce, now 70, which led her to question, “What’s happening? This isn’t the man I married. Something just feels terribly out of place.

The 47-year-old, who had previously seen their relationship as a “romantic, enchanting tale,” expressed that they simply couldn’t make sense of things.

Reflecting on those challenging times proved difficult for Emma, as she acknowledged, “I find it incredibly tough to revisit that period in our lives right now.

In terms of their current relationship, Emma shared that taking on the role of Bruce’s caregiver, along with managing the team of professionals who assist in his care – a task she once handled solo – has allowed her to reconnect and feel like a spouse once more. However, it’s important to note that due to these circumstances, their relationship dynamics have naturally evolved.

As a devoted partner, I find myself reflecting on our relationship – it no longer feels like the traditional ‘husband and wife’ bond we once shared. We seem to have transcended that phase, yet I am at a loss for words to define what we are now. It’s an evolving dynamic that sets us apart.

Emma added, “I have a strong bond with him, but I’m not sure how to categorize it. It’s more profound, he is essentially ‘my person.’

Her comments emerged following the disclosure that Bruce, who is father to Rumer Willis (age 37), Scout Willis (age 34) and Tallulah Willis (age 31), all from his previous relationship with Demi Moore, is currently living apart due to the ongoing need for round-the-clock care he receives.

During her September 9th interview on Good Morning America, Emma emphasized that the difficult decision made was indeed the safest and most beneficial one, not just for Bruce but also for their two young daughters. She firmly stated that this decision was non-negotiable.

Despite admitting that their living arrangement could spark debate, she openly discussed the truth behind their circumstances to shed light on the realities of being a caregiver, and stayed firm with her choice.

Emma insisted that no vote would be required regarding that matter. She was certain that Bruce always received the best possible care, and all his requirements were consistently met.

Keep reading for more on the Willis family…

Emerging film actors Bruce Willis and Demi Moore crossed paths at the August 1987 premiere of the cop comedy “Stakeout”. Interestingly, neither of them appeared in the movie, but Demi was there to show support for one of its stars, her former fiancé Emilio Estevez.

Bruce had recently become single, while Demi, who was wedded to Freddy Moore between 1981 and 1985, was now open to socializing with others.

In her 2019 memoir, “Inside Out,” the Ghost star expressed that we immediately dove headfirst into the conversation, emphasizing our shared desire for parenthood and building a family.

Shortly after their initial encounter, around a few months time, they found themselves in Las Vegas to watch a boxing match. It was there that they decided to elope, getting married on November 21, 1987 at the Golden Nugget hotel. A month later, they had a larger wedding where Little Richard officiated their vows.

Despite Demi’s subsequent revelations in her book about the strains their marriage faced, including Bruce’s doubt about their marriage as early as 1990, they appeared to be a shining star couple of Hollywood until they disclosed their separation in 1998.

But they remained a family unit. 

According to an interview with Rolling Stone in 2000, Bruce stated that his affection for Demi remains strong, and they maintain a very close relationship. They share three children, and their bond is as tight now as it has ever been. They understand the long-term commitment they have towards their kids, and their friendship persists.

Demi has said she and Bruce started trying to have a child even before their whirlwind wedding.

It’s plausible that my parents had a successful union, as evident by the birth of my daughter, Rumer Glenn Willis, on August 16, 1988, in Paducah, Kentucky, where my father was engaged in filming the movie “In Country” at the time.

For a few years following Rumer’s birth, it seems that home videos capturing her birth served as the primary source of amusement when her parents hosted gatherings with friends.

Demi shared with Vanity Fair back in 1991 that Bruce, during the 15-hour long labor, was virtually always by her side. The only exception being when he briefly stepped away to use the restroom once.

Back in my ninth year, when my parents decided to part ways, I continue to be amazed by their exceptional co-parenting abilities. In an interview with People magazine in October 2024, I shared, “There was never a need for us to divide family trips, Christmas celebrations, or birthdays.

In a 2015 interview with Larry King, she shared that the family consistently put in an effort to attend and celebrate family events together, aiming to maintain their unity rather than becoming two distinct entities. This approach, according to her, had a significant impact.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share some personal news from my life – on April 18, 2022, I embraced parenthood for the first time with the arrival of my precious daughter, Louetta Isley Thomas Willis. I am beyond grateful to have shared this beautiful moment with my partner, the talented musician Derek Richard Thomas. This new chapter in our lives is filled with love and excitement, as we embark on this incredible journey together.

The actress from “My Divorce Party” revealed that she named her baby by combining the names of her father’s beloved musicians – Louie Armstrong, Etta James, and the Isley Brothers.

In a conversation with TopMob News in January 2024, Demi, overjoyed grandmother, expressed that she is simply a source of pure happiness. Essentially, it embodies all the classic sentiments. She experiences all the fun and joy, and then gets to retire early for a restful night’s sleep.

In August 2024, Rumer and Derek parted ways, yet she acknowledged her parents warmly for setting an “extraordinary standard” in co-parenting.

In an interview with People in October 2024, Rumer stated, “Derek remains my dearest friend, a status that hasn’t wavered over time. We’ve discovered an incredible method to nurture our friendship and joint parenting, which we both cherish deeply. I believe we are extremely fortunate to enjoy this fulfilling bond not only for ourselves but also for the benefit of Lou.

Born on July 20, 1991, in Sun Valley, Idaho, Scout LaRue Willis was raised by her parents who chose to distance their children from the bustling world of Hollywood during their formative years.

Not that they didn’t do glitz and glam.

During her pregnancy with her second child, Demi made headlines by posing naked on the August 1991 cover of Vanity Fair, a maternity photo shoot that continues to be widely emulated.

“Pregnancy agrees with me,” she told the magazine. “I feel comfortable.”

Though she occasionally acted in some of her parents’ movies during childhood, Scout showed a preference for photography and music instead. Graduating from Brown University, she released her self-titled debut album in 2022.

However, she has a fondness for great films, and prior to Demi being awarded a Golden Globe for “The Substance,” Scout had been praising her mother’s role in the humorously grimy body horror movie.

In an interview with Us Weekly in November 2024, Scout expressed, “I found myself admiring this woman immensely, as she embodies someone I aspire to be like. Not only is her beauty breathtaking and her talent unmatched, but her bravery in fully embracing herself in that space was inspiring.” Reflecting on the impact she had on others, Scout added, “It’s a gift to have the courage to share oneself with so many people, and she demonstrated that selflessness admirably.

Tallulah Belle Willis was born Feb. 3, 1994, in Hailey, Idaho.

In 2000, Bruce shared with Rolling Stone that he’s encountered various interpretations suggesting his fatherhood of three daughters is some form of divine retribution. However, he cheerfully stated that if given the chance, he would happily welcome three more daughters into his life, as he finds them truly wonderful.

The Willis-Moore family moved from Idaho to Los Angeles while Tallulah was in the third grade, which exposed her to a touch of Hollywood life more than her other siblings – an experience that wasn’t particularly positive.

The creator of the fashion label Wyllis openly shared her journey towards sobriety at the age of 20, seeking treatment for depression at 25, and later fighting anorexia. In a 2023 Vogue article, she revealed that the medication prescribed for ADHD not only proved beneficial but also served as an appetite-reducer, further fueling her obsession with her weight.

Following another round of treatment, it was revealed in March 2022 that Bruce had aphasia, as the family chose to make this information public. During this visit, Tallulah herself was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder.

In her writing for Vogue, she expressed that while recovery may be a continuous process, she now possesses the necessary skills to fully engage in every aspect of her life, and most notably, in her relationship with her father.

Tallulah revealed on Christmas Eve that she is engaged to her musician partner, Justin Acee. He popping the question took place at his future mother-in-law’s house in Idaho, allowing a family member to record the special occasion on video.

After his divorce from Demi, Bruce hadn’t envisioned another deep love affair for himself – that is, until he crossed paths with Emma Heming, a model hailing from Malta, at their shared fitness trainer’s gym in 2007.

For nearly a decade, the actor from Die Hard described himself as solitary and for the greater part, dissatisfied. He revealed this in 2009 to W. During that period, he felt deeply troubled and believed that finding someone else wasn’t the solution. Instead, he would say, “I’m alone, but I’m not lonely.” However, looking back, he admits he was merely trying to deceive himself.

Since he began regularly interacting with Emma, who is 23 years younger than him, “each day I found myself experiencing significantly more joy and happiness.

On March 21, 2009, they got married on a beach at their home in Turks and Caicos. Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah were among the guests, accompanied by Demi who was then married to Ashton Kutcher (however, they later separated in 2011 after six years of marriage).

17 years ago on December 29, 2024, I shared a heartfelt post about my unwavering love for my husband, a sentiment I’ve been open about in light of his challenges. The love I have for him is boundless and unconditional.

She’s thankful to know what he showed her, and if she could, she’d do it again and again.)

Following Bruce’s aphasia and dementia diagnosis, several months apart, Emma established the supplement company Make Time Wellness, specializing in brain health and prenatal wellness. Additionally, she introduced the Make Time Podcast to the public.

Emma emphasized to TopMob News in 2023 that it’s crucial to speak up because active engagement, discussion, and increased understanding can lead to positive change.

Emma and Bruce gave birth to their daughter Mabel Ray Willis in Los Angeles on April 1, 2012. However, shortly after, the family moved to Bedford Hills, New York.

In 2017, Emma expressed to Elle Decor that one of the appealing aspects of our residence lies in its proximity to the city. This means we enjoy the benefits of two distinct environments.

Despite the miles separating us, the bond between me and the extraordinary women of Willis-Moore remained unbroken: Scout, Tallulah, and Demi traveled from afar to share in the joyous occasion of Mabel’s sixth-grade graduation that took place in June 2024.

“We love her!!!” Tallulah commented on Instagram. “7th grade here we go!”

Upon May 5, 2014, I, a proud and overjoyed dad, couldn’t help but feel an immense sense of contentment as Evelyn Penn Willis graced our world, officially making me the blessed father of five enchanting daughters!

He shared with People a week after the event that they hadn’t anticipated what was to come until the baby was born. Generally speaking, he believes that decisions should predominantly rest with women because, in his opinion, women tend to be more intellectually astute than men.

In line with my expertise on all things lifestyle, I’d say I effortlessly rolled with the circumstances, just as Bruce did, always making it a priority to share my leisure moments generously with my girls, a trait that Emma praised when she spoke to Elle Decor, describing him as “awesome.

She remarked, “He’s had children for such a extended period, I believe, and understands that his time is no longer truly his, that he’s quite giving with it.

Emma clarified that they viewed themselves as prioritizing tradition by always keeping family at the forefront. They instill in their children the values of good manners, grace, and an appreciation for learning and education. However, they also encourage their kids to freely express themselves in various forms or behaviors, provided it’s reasonable. They are careful not to give their children a sense of entitlement, so they strive to maintain a balance between structure and freedom as best they can.

Furthermore, Emma has been open with Mabel and Evelyn regarding their father’s health situation. Yet, she is equally dedicated to crafting joyful moments, as evidenced by her sharing of videos from a recent girls’ getaway in Paris, and her efforts in decorating for Christmas at home.

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2025-09-10 20:48