Bruce Willis ‘Never Connected the Dots’ About Dementia Diagnosis, Says Wife Emma Heming Willis

Bruce Willis did not realise that he was suffering from frontotemporal dementia, according to his wife, Emma Heming Willis.

In an exclusive conversation with People, Emma shared an update on Bruce’s health during her appearance on the Jan. 28 episode of the podcast Conversations with Cam, hosted by Cameron Oaks Rogers.

Emma said Bruce “never, never tapped in” to the idea that he had the disease. She explained that while this may sound sad, she actually sees it as both a blessing and a curse.

“I’m really happy that he doesn’t know about it,” Emma said. “He never connected the dots that he had this disease.”

She explained that Bruce has a condition called anosognosia. According to the Cleveland Clinic, anosognosia is when a person’s brain cannot recognise an illness they have. It is common in people with certain brain and mental health conditions.

Emma said this means Bruce believes what he is experiencing is normal. “People think this is denial,” she explained. “But it’s not denial. It’s the brain changing. This is part of the disease.”

Bruce, 70, was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2023. The condition affects the frontal and temporal parts of the brain, leading to changes in speech, behaviour, emotions, and personality. It can also cause problems with movement, walking, swallowing, and muscle control. It is a progressive disease and is the most common form of dementia in people under 60.

The Die Hard star’s family has been open about his condition and how it has changed their lives.

Emma said Bruce is still “very much present in his body,” and that the family has learned to adapt as his condition has progressed.

“We have progressed along with him,” she said. “We’ve adapted along with him.”

She added that while Bruce connects with her and their children differently now, those moments still matter deeply.

“It’s still very beautiful. It’s still very meaningful,” Emma said. “It’s just different. You just learn how to adapt.”