‘His Language Is Fading’: Emma Heming Willis Shares Emotional Update Two Years Into Bruce Willis’s Dementia Battle
More than two years after revealing Bruce Willis’s aphasia diagnosis, and nearly a year later, his frontotemporal dementia (FTD), his wife Emma Heming Willis offers a deeply moving update. The ABC interview with Diane Sawyer sheds light on how Bruce’s physical health remains remarkably strong, yet his brain is ‘failing him,’ and his language is gradually slipping away.
Emma describes how they’ve adapted to this heartbreaking reality. While Bruce stays mobile and energetic, his ability to communicate has declined significantly, forcing them to find new ways to connect.
She reflects back to the early signs of his illness, once outgoing and animated, Bruce began to withdraw, becoming quieter and emotionally distant, a stark shift from his naturally warm and affectionate self.
Yet, amidst the sadness, Emma still sees flashes of the artist she married. She holds dear those fleeting moments when his hearty laughter rings out or a spark returns to his eyes, small, precious glimpses that transport her back to better times, even if only for a moment.
Emma also openly shares the emotional shock of the diagnosis itself. When the news was delivered, she admits, “I was so panicked… it was like I was freefalling.” Finding relief in finally getting a definitive name for Bruce’s condition, a diagnosis that brought clarity, even if it was painful.
Looking ahead, Emma continues her journey as Bruce’s caregiver and advocate. Her forthcoming book, Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope and Yourself on the Caregiving Path, explores this challenging road with Raw honesty and tenderness, and is set to release on September 9.
Key Highlights:
Physical status vs. cognitive decline: Bruce remains physically capable and independent, but FTD is taking a toll on his brain, especially his ability to speak and process language.
Emotional distance: Once gregarious and warm, Bruce began to withdraw, showing less engagement, a dramatic and painful shift for his family.
Moments of connection: Emma treasures brief episodes where Bruce’s laughter, expression, or eye sparkle reappear, reminders that, despite everything, he’s still with her.
Diagnosis as both shock and relief: Emma recounts feeling like she was “freefalling” after hearing the diagnosis, a moment of devastation that ultimately provided clarity.
Caregiving and advocacy: Emma’s forthcoming memoir, due September 9, offers heartfelt insights into caregiving, resilience, and hope in the face of dementia.