It’s always tragic news to hear when a beloved actor’s life is changed due to a serious medical diagnosis. That’s what happened to Die Hard actor Bruce Willis, whose family announced he was retiring from acting due to a medical condition called aphasia. The condition robs you of your ability to speak, write, and understand language. Bruce Willis’ wife, Emma Heming Willis, is supporting her husband following his diagnosis and retirement, and more details are emerging.
People spoke to a source close to the family, who revealed information about what happened after the beloved actor was diagnosed. Willis’ wife Heming Willis reportedly works with “several professionals” and lets him see the best doctors. As well as Emma taking care of Willis, he also has an assistant at home to make sure he is safe. As there’s a 23-year age difference, the source said the 43-year-old actress and model reportedly expected his health to deteriorate at some point, but the schedule is “shocking.”
Bruce Willis’ diagnosis came as a shock to many other celebrities who had great relationships with him. Many spoke out immediately afterwards to share stories and send love to him and his family. Ex-wife and co-parent Demi Moore joined the rest of the family in a statement saying everyone is moving forward with the strength of the family unit. M. Night Shyamalan, who directed Bruce Willis in The Sixth Sense, said, “He will always be the hero of that poster on my wall as a kid.”
Sylvester Stallone and John Travolta also shared their reactions to the diagnosis. Stallone has posted a number of great photos of himself with Bruce Willis over the years. Travolta did the same, along with a caption calling the actor a “generous soul.” Willis’ daughter Scout Willis also wrote a lovely message about how much it meant to her to have the fervent support of friends and fans of his. She also appreciated hearing how much her father means to everyone, he was clearly loved by so many.
The diagnosis also led to a statement from the Razzies. The organization revoked an award recently given to Willis. A special category was originally created for the actor just for them to acknowledge how inappropriate it was as he battles this disease while attempting to film.
While Bruce Willis’ time on the big screen is over, the action-packed and sentimental performances he’s given audiences for over 40 years will live on in our minds and our hearts. Thank you Bruce Willis for all these years of unforgettable entertainment. If you want to revisit some of his best films, the good news is that you have plenty to choose from.