Bruce Willis Health: Emma’s Update
By Asmita - Aug 27, 2025
Emma Heming Willis provides an update on husband Bruce Willis's battle with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), noting his decline in communication but overall good health. She shares how their family adapts with unique interactions, emphasizing the importance of laughter and subtle gestures. Emma advocates for caregivers globally, drawing from her personal experience and authoring a book for guidance. She aims to raise awareness for FTD, stress early diagnosis and clinical trial participation, and advocate for supportive caregiving networks.

Jerome Maurice via Istock
Emma Heming Willis, wife of legendary actor Bruce Willis, recently shared a heartfelt update on her husband's ongoing battle with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Speaking in a televised interview, she described Willis as “still very mobile” and in “really great health overall,” clarifying that it’s primarily his brain that is letting him down. Since his diagnosis in 2023, Willis has experienced a steady decline in his ability to communicate; the family has adapted by creating unique ways of interacting with him, relying on moments of laughter and subtle gestures to maintain connection.
Emma reflected on the profound changes the family has endured, sharing that Willis’ personality and language skills have diminished in recent months. He now communicates in limited ways, prompting loved ones to cherish brief instances when his former spark and humor appear. Emma noted the return of a childhood stutter and observed that Willis becomes quieter at family gatherings, but there remain occasions when his hearty laugh and familiar twinkle briefly resurface.
Beyond the immediate caregiving challenges, Emma Heming Willis has taken a prominent role in advocating for caregivers worldwide. Her advocacy grew from a deeply personal journey, marked by periods of isolation and the need to create a safe household environment for Willis and their children. To encourage others and provide practical guidance, Emma authored a book titled “The Unexpected Journey,” which offers a roadmap for navigating the uncertainties and emotional strains of supporting loved ones with dementia.
Emma’s efforts aim to raise awareness of FTD and equip caregivers with crucial resources for early diagnosis and participation in clinical trials, as breakthroughs may hinge on timely intervention. She emphasizes the importance of building networks so caregivers do not feel alone, sharing her personal experiences to highlight the strength, hope, and resilience possible amidst hardship. Emma continues to lead national conversations about dementia and caregiving, underscoring the vital need for understanding, research, and community support.