Rumer Willis Gives Update on Dad Bruce's Health: 'He's Doing Really Good'
Bruce Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, his family revealed in February 2023
Rumer Willis is sharing an update on her dad Bruce Willis following his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
At the premiere of her movie My Divorce Party at the 2024 Beverly Hills Film Festival on May 2, the 35-year-old actress told PEOPLE, “He's doing really good. I got to go over there with [daughter] Louetta today.”
Rumer also told Fox News that being transparent about Bruce’s condition can help others going through similar situations with their loved ones.
"I think, for me, through this experience, what’s been so incredible is my dad is so beloved, and that’s been so evident in the transparency with which we’ve been sharing,” she said. “And I think if there’s any way sharing our experience brings hope — whatever comes forward as a family — that can have an effect and bring any sort of hope, comfort to someone else experiencing that, then to me, that’s … everything."
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Frontotemporal dementia is an all-encompassing term for a group of brain disorders that threatens the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. This means that parts of these lobes atrophy, and the shrinking of these areas can cause speech issues, emotional problems and changes in personality.
Other symptoms can include loss of motor skills — problems walking, swallowing or muscle spasms. Symptoms tend to get worse over time. Patients typically begin to notice symptoms between 40 - 65 years of age, but it can affect people who are younger. It is the most common form of dementia for people under 60.
In November 2023, the actress’ sister Tallulah Willis, the youngest child of Bruce and ex-wife Demi Moore, opened up about her dad’s life after his diagnosis during an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show.
"He is the same, which I think in this regard I’ve learned is the best thing you can ask for," she told host Drew Barrymore. "I see love when I’m with him, and it’s my dad and he loves me, which is really special.”
Bruce's family revealed his FTD diagnosis in February 2023, releasing a group statement that read, "Bruce has always found joy in life — and has helped everyone he knows to do the same."
"It has meant the world to see that sense of care echoed back to him and to all of us. We have been so moved by the love you have all shared for our dear husband, father, and friend during this difficult time," they said at the time.
"Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible," the family concluded.
Opening up about why the family has been so open about Bruce’s diagnosis, Tallulah, 30, explained to Barrymore, 49, "Well, I think it’s twofold. On one hand, it’s who we are as a family, but also, it’s really important for us to spread awareness."
"If we can take something that we’re struggling with as a family to help other people, to turn it around to make something beautiful about it, that’s really special for us," she added.
Along with Rumer and Tallulah, Bruce also shares daughter Scout, 32, with Moore, 61, plus daughters Mabel, 11, and Evelyn, 9, with his wife Emma Heming Willis.
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