Bruce Willis’ Wife Says He’s “Healthy & Active” — But His Brain Is “Failing Him”

 Published August 28, 2025

Bruce Willis may still be physically active and mobile, but the real battle lies within: his brain. In a deeply emotional health update, Emma Heming Willis, the actor’s wife, shared a candid portrait of life with her husband as he faces the relentless progression of frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

According to ABC News, Emma described Bruce as being “in really great health overall,” but painfully noted, “it’s just his brain that is failing him” . The actor’s ability to communicate—his language skills—continues to decline, though the family has adapted and found new, meaningful ways to connect .

Still, flickers of his old self shine through. Emma spoke of moments when his hearty laugh breaks through or she sees “that twinkle in his eye,” recalling, “Not days, but we get moments…” .

To ensure Bruce receives round-the-clock care in a safe and calm environment, the family moved him to a specially tailored, one-story home nearby. Emma described the decision as “one of the hardest” she's ever faced, made with their daughters’ needs in mind .

FTD & Aphasia: A Dual Diagnosis

Bruce Willis’s health struggles began with an aphasia diagnosis in 2022, which impairs language and communication. In 2023, the diagnosis deepened with frontotemporal dementia—a disease that erodes language, behavior, and cognition . Emma has opened up about the early, alarming warning signs: a change in demeanor, missing lines on set, and withdrawal from once-beloved routines .

Although emotionally overwhelming, Emma says the clear diagnosis brought some relief—and motivated her to become a voice for caregivers and families affected by dementia .

Caring Through Connection

In her interview with Diane Sawyer for the ABC special Emma & Bruce Willis: The Unexpected Journey, Emma shared that Bruce may not always recognize who she is, but he still responds to love and presence. “When we are with him… he lights up,” she said .

This emotional connection—through touch, affection, and simple shared moments—has become the heart of their communication. Emma reflected, “I don’t need him to know that I am his wife… I just want to feel that I have a connection with him—and I do.” 

Sharing Their Journey—and Hope

Emma’s story is not private. She is publishing a memoir titled The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope and Yourself on the Caregiving Path, to be released on September 9, offering insight and solace to others on a caregiving journey .

The ABC special also serves to raise awareness about FTD and the emotional warp it brings to families. It airs on ABC, and is available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu .

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In Summary:

Physical health: Bruce Willis remains active and mobile.

Cognitive decline: His brain is failing—communication is slipping away.

Family response: Emma and their children foster connection through love and presence rather than memory.

Support: A tailored home with professional caregivers surrounds him.

Advocacy & healing: Emma’s upcoming memoir and media speci

al are lifelines for other caregivers.