Retired American actor, Bruce Willis, 70, is now living in a separate, nearby home to receive round-the-clock care for his frontotemporal dementia (FTD), according to his wife, Emma Heming Willis.
The decision, which she described as one of the hardest she has ever made, was done with the well-being of their young daughters in mind.
A Home 'Tailored to Their Needs'
In a recent ABC News special, "Emma & Bruce Willis: The Unexpected Journey," Emma Heming Willis revealed the new living arrangements.
The one-story home, located near their family residence, is specifically designed to be a safer and more manageable environment for Bruce and his care team.
The change was made to ensure their daughters, Mabel (13) and Evelyn (11), can have a stable home life without the disruptions that might be caused by his condition.
"I knew, first and foremost, Bruce would want that for our daughters. He would want them to be in a home that was more tailored to their needs, not his needs."
A Degenerative Disease
Bruce Willis's family first announced in 2022 that he was stepping away from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia, a condition that affects communication.
The following year, his diagnosis was updated to FTD, a degenerative brain disease that can impact behaviour, communication, and movement.
While Bruce remains physically mobile and in good overall health, his brain is "failing him," and his ability to communicate and recall memories is diminishing.
His wife explained that loud noises can cause agitation, leading her to isolate their family in the early stages of his diagnosis. She stopped hosting playdates and sleepovers, feeling that others might not be comfortable with their situation.
A Continued Connection
Despite the separate living arrangements, the family remains a "unit." Emma and their daughters visit Bruce frequently, often having breakfast and dinner together.
His ex-wife, Demi Moore, and their three adult daughters, Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah, also visit the home.
"When we go over, either we're outside, or we're watching a movie...it's just really about being able to be there, and connect with Bruce."
Emma stated that her husband "lights up" when his family is with him. She finds comfort in the small, cherished moments, like his hearty laugh, a twinkle in his eye, or a simple smirk.
The new living situation, though difficult, allows Bruce to receive the specialised care he needs while ensuring his family can continue to share moments of love and laughter with him in a safe and peaceful environment