How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

As I delve into the captivating world of the illustrious and talented Bruce Willis, it is evident that his life has been a rollercoaster ride of success, love, and family. From gracing the Hollywood Walk of Fame to frolicking with his daughters on Halloween, it’s clear that family moments are as precious to him as his blockbuster roles.


Over the past few years, Emma Heming Willis has dedicated herself to fulfilling four primary responsibilities: being a mother, a spouse, a caregiver, and an advocate.

Bruce Willis’ wife who has been married to him for 15 years, with whom he has two young daughters – Mabel (age 12) and Evelyn (age 10) – recently shared her experiences in dealing with Bruce’s diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia and aphasia while raising their children together.

Emma explained to Town & Country magazine in an October 29, 2022 interview that understanding the diagnosis of fronto-temporal dementia was crucial for her education on the topic and for sharing it with their children. She’s always been honest with them about Bruce’s gradual decline over the years, emphasizing she doesn’t want to hide the reality from them.

One of the ways she educates her and Bruce’s children is by letting them take the lead.

In essence, our therapist taught us that when a child asks a question, it means they’re prepared to grasp the response. If it becomes apparent that Bruce is facing difficulties, I would discuss this with the children to ensure they can comprehend the situation.

However, there’s one aspect of FTD that Emma has not discussed with Mabel or Evelyn.

As a lifestyle guide, I find myself delicately navigating the complexities of life when discussing a condition that is persistent, advancing, and ultimately incurable. While there’s no remedy for this affliction, it’s crucial to avoid dwelling on the terminal aspect, as it has not been a topic they’ve expressed interest in exploring, nor have I initiated the discussion. They are well aware that my health is not improving and will not lead to recovery.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

One thing Emma, aged 46, has had to accept about her condition is how it has caused a major change in the future plans of her family.

Emma sorrowfully expressed, “We had countless dreams, countless wonderful moments we wished to share with our daughters, countless experiences we yearned to live together.” She spoke of Bruce, their shared daughters – Rumer Willis (36), Scout Willis (33), and Tallulah Willis (30) – born from his marriage with Demi Moore. “Suddenly, you tear out that entire chapter, leaving you wondering how to rewrite the tale,” she mused. “I’m learning to regain some control. It might not be the most beautiful story I could have imagined, but there are glimmers of hope.

Emma is taking up the narrative of her family by acting as an ambassador for Furthering Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) research and education, a step she feels Bruce, aged 69, would be honored by.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

She made it clear, “I won’t let FTD destroy our entire family, as Bruce wouldn’t wish that upon us. I will stand up for us, give our children hope, and strive to aid others in similar situations.

Emma is fortunate to have the backing of Bruce’s combined family, which includes Demi. “They appreciate how I’m caring for him; they truly stand by me,” she expressed. “Whenever I need someone to talk to, cry with, or even when I need to express my anger – because it’s normal to feel all those emotions – they are always ready to lend an ear.

For more on Bruce’s sweet moments with his family, read on.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

In a heartfelt Instagram post in March 2024, Rumer Willis expressed her appreciation for her father, saying, “To be cherished by you is such an extraordinary blessing.” She continued, “You are the most hilarious, gentle, endearing, out-of-this-world goofy, incredibly talented, and enchanting father. As I browse these photos this morning, I am overflowing with gratitude that we embarked on this journey of life together. As your first child, there are times when I wish I could shrink myself to fit back onto your chest, to giggle and cuddle you once more.

She went on saying, “I adore you to such a depth within me that I can’t comprehend how my body maintains it. You are the most wonderful father anyone could dream of having. Thank you for your kindness, your playfulness, and your compassionate heart. Lou has an immense love for you. Happy Birthday, Daddio.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

The actor’s spouse, Emma Heming Willis, penned on Instagram nearly a year since the family disclosed his Frontotemporal Dementia diagnosis: “Love remains a wondrous gift.” She sends her warm wishes for a joyful Valentine’s Day to all.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

In February 2024, Demi Moore posted a photo of her former spouse and their youngest daughter, whom they both share, on her 30th birthday, expressing affection by saying, “Sending lots of love to @buuski today.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

In November of 2023, the actor marked his initial Thanksgiving celebration since receiving a diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia earlier in the year. His spouse, Emma, posted this photograph from Bruce’s 68th birthday party in March on social media.

She expressed her gratitude and appreciation for experiencing such love, and wished everyone a joyous Thanksgiving.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

As an ardent admirer, I couldn’t help but feel a thrill when I saw none other than the great Bruce Willis walking hand-in-hand with Emma, stepping out to celebrate the unveiling of Demi’s 2019 memoir, “Inside Out”. The excitement was palpable as his three stunning daughters, Rumer Willis, Scout Willis, and Tallulah Willis, graced the event alongside their G.I. Jane actress mother. What a moment it was!

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Bruce and Emma appear on a hike with their daughters Evelyn Willis and Mabel Willis.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

In 2018, the actor stood alongside his former spouse and their daughters Rumer and Tallulah during a backstage gathering, prior to his Comedy Central roast event.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Bruce became a grandpa in April 2023 when Rumer welcomed a baby girl named Louetta.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

The entire family got together to celebrate the birth of Rumer’s baby.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Bruce had two special vistors when he starred in Broadway’s Misery in 2016.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

The family showed up in full force to support Rumer’s 2015 Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in Chicago.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

As an over-eager photographer, I climbed a rickety old ladder, set the timer on my trusty camera, and crossed every digit on both hands, hoping for the best as I captured our cherished Christmas moment of 2020. Indeed, it seems that this year has found a way to make even the simplest tasks an adventure!

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Bruce took his three oldest daughters to the Over the Hedge premiere in 2006.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

The dad of five shared a sweet moment with daughter Mabel.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Tallulah, Scout and Rumer joined their dad at a Bruce Willis Charity Foundation in 2005.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

The family celebrated Rumer’s Dancing With the Stars win with Val Chmerkovskiy.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Every day, I feel incredibly blessed to be your daughter,” Rumer wrote alongside this old picture. “I adore you so deeply. You’re the most stylish and awesome person around!

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Emma rang in her 43rd birthday in 2021 with Bruce and their daughters, as well as Rumer and Demi.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

The family spent Christmas 2022 together.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

In 2006, Bruce was accompanied by his mother Marlene and his eldest three daughters as he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

The action star dressed up with Mabel and Evelyn on Halloween 2021.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

In a playful manner, Tallulah titled this picture of her and father Bruce striking goofy expressions as, “The Acting Troupe.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Evelyn and Mabel hit the slopes during a family ski trip.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

In the year 2008, Demi’s spouse at the time, Ashton Kutcher, along with their family, attended the premiere of “The House Bunny” to support Rumer.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Bruce and Emma took their kids to Walt Disney World in 2017.

How Bruce Willis’ Wife Explained His FTD Diagnosis to Their Kids

Emma announced on Instagram in 2018, “This is the first time Mabel and Evelyn have appeared in a play! Mabel played the role of Molly and Evelyn as Sandy in an exceptional production of Annie, which was further off-Broadway than most productions [winking emoji]. The entire cast and crew were amazing—Mom and Dad are incredibly proud.

Read More

2024-10-29 20:48