Bruce Willis gives up acting due to brain disorder aphasia

Bruce Willis will step away from his acting career after being diagnosed with aphasia, a condition that impedes a person’s ability to speak and write

Bruce Willis is stepping away from his illustrious acting career following a diagnosis of aphasia, a condition that affects one’s ability to speak and write. The announcement was made by his family, including his wife Emma Heming-Willis and ex-wife Demi Moore, via Instagram on Wednesday.

The statement revealed that aphasia is “impacting his cognitive abilities,” prompting Willis, 67, to retire from the profession that brought him worldwide fame. Best known for his iconic role as John McClane in the Die Hard series, Willis’s decision was described by his family as a difficult one. “With much consideration, Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him,” they wrote. “This is a challenging time for our family, and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion, and support.”

Willis is a father to five daughters—three with Demi Moore and two with Emma Heming-Willis.

Understanding Aphasia

Aphasia is a condition that affects language and speech, often resulting from damage to the left side of the brain, such as from a stroke. It can impair reading, listening, speaking, typing, or writing, with speaking difficulties being the most common, often leading to incorrect word formations.

A Stellar Career

Willis began his acting career in the early 1980s but only rose to fame later that decade, first co-starring with Cybill Shepherd in the ABC TV series Moonlighting and then with his breakout role in the 1988 film Die Hard. Over the years, his films—including The Sixth Sense, Armageddon, and Pulp Fiction—have grossed over $5 billion worldwide, according to Variety. Willis has been nominated for five Golden Globes, winning one for Moonlighting, and three Emmys, winning two.

Industry Reactions

Following the announcement, numerous actors and celebrities expressed their support and condolences. Actress Jamie Lee Curtis commented, “Grace and guts! Love to you all!” in response to Demi Moore’s post. Journalist Katie Couric added, “Sending lots of love and healing to you all!”

Willis’s departure from acting marks the end of an era, but his contributions to cinema will continue to be celebrated by fans and peers alike.