Bruce Willis Unaware of His Dementia Diagnosis, Wife Emma Reveals
LOS ANGELES, January 29, 2026 – Bruce Willis “doesn’t know” he has frontotemporal dementia, his wife Emma Heming Willis revealed in a new interview this week. The actor’s lack of awareness is due to a specific neurological condition, offering a poignant update nearly three years after his family first shared his diagnosis.
A Condition of Unawareness
In interviews with multiple outlets, Emma Heming Willis explained that her husband suffers from anosognosia, a condition that prevents a person from recognizing their own illness or disability. This means the 70-year-old retired actor has “never connected the dots” regarding his 2023 diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a progressive disorder that affects behavior, personality, and language.
“I’m really happy that he doesn’t know,” Emma told People, emphasizing a focus on his present comfort and happiness rather than the diagnosis itself. She described the disease’s progression as “slow” and noted their blended family has adapted alongside him.
Key Facts on Bruce Willis’s Health Journey
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Announcement (2022) | Family announced Bruce Willis was stepping away from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia, a language disorder. |
| Updated Diagnosis (2023) | Willis received a more specific diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). |
| Recent Update (January 2026) | Wife Emma reveals he has anosognosia, leaving him unaware of his condition. She confirms he still recognizes immediate family. |
| Current Living Situation | Willis resides in a separate family home in Los Angeles, which Emma has said helps provide specialized care. |
Legacy and Current Availability
Bruce Willis, famed for roles in the Die Hard series, Pulp Fiction, and The Sixth Sense, retired following his diagnosis. His film library remains popular. Notably, the action-comedy Red (2010) is scheduled to leave Netflix after February 22, 2026, while the first and fourth Die Hard films will be available for free on Tubi starting February 1, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is frontotemporal dementia (FTD)?
Frontotemporal dementia is a group of disorders caused by progressive nerve cell loss in the brain’s frontal or temporal lobes. It primarily affects personality, behavior, and language, rather than memory in its early stages.
What is anosognosia?
Anosognosia is a neurological condition characterized by a person’s inability to recognize they have a medical condition or disability. It is common in certain types of dementia, psychiatric disorders, and following brain injuries.
Does Bruce Willis recognize his family?
Yes. Despite his condition and lack of awareness about the diagnosis, Emma Heming Willis has confirmed that her husband still recognizes her and their children.