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What's wrong with Bruce Willis? 'Die Hard' star retiring from acting due to rare brain disorder

Bruce Willis is 'stepping away” from his acting career after being diagnosed with aphasia

Bruce Willis' family announced on Wednesday, March 30, that he is “stepping away” from his acting career after being diagnosed with aphasia, a brain disorder. The family posted a joint statement on social media announcing that Willis, 67, is retiring.

"To Bruce’s amazing supporters, as a family we wanted to share that our beloved Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia, which is impacting his cognitive abilities. As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him," the family wrote on Instagram.

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"This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion and support. We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him. As Bruce always says, “Live it up” and together we plan to do just that," the family added, signing off as "Emma, Demi, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, & Evelyn".

Willis is known for making his silver screen debut with an uncredited role in 'The First Deadly Sin'. He popularly played John McClane in the 'Die Hard' franchise. Some of his other acclaimed films include 'The Fifth Element', 'Armageddon', 'The Sixth Sense', 'The Last Boy Scout', 'Death Becomes Her', 'Pulp Fiction' and '12 Monkeys'. He was last seen in 'A Day to Die', which released in March this year. 

Willis married actress Demi Moore in 1987, and had three daughters: Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah. In June 1998, Willis and Moore announced their separation, and they filed for divorce soon after. At the time, Willis had said of the divorce, "I felt I had failed as a father and a husband by not being able to make it work." He appreciated Will Smith for helping him get through the situation. However, he remained friends with Moore, and attended her subsequent wedding with Ashton Kutcher. 

Willis was later engaged to actress Brooke Burns, but they split in 2004 after being together for ten months. He married model Emma Heming in Turks and Caicos on March 21, 2009. The pair has two daughters: Mabel and Evelyn.

What is aphasia?

Aphasia, the illness Willis is battling, is a language disorder caused by damage in an area of the brain that controls comprehension and expression. The condition leaves a person unable to communicate with people effectively.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, "Many people have aphasia as a result of stroke. Both men and women are affected equally, and most people with aphasia are in middle to old age. There are many types of aphasia. These are usually diagnosed based on which area of the language-dominant side of the brain is affected and the extent of the damage."

'Grateful for every character he’s given us'

Devastated at the news, social media users wished Willis well. "Bruce Willis has given us so many iconic characters and great performances across his career. Forever a legend. Wishing him all the best, and I hope he enjoys retirement," one user wrote. "Bruce Willis news is so sad. What a talent. Just remember - we never know how long we get in this life," one user said, while another wrote, "All my love and respect to my big brother Bruce Willis. I know his wonderful family is surrounding him with support and strength. He will always be that hero on that poster on my wall as kid."

"I have so much love for Bruce Willis, and am grateful for every character he’s given us. Hugs and love for the whole family- thank you for sharing him with us all ," one user commented. Another wrote, "Incredibly sad to hear Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with a form of early onset dementia, aphasia, and is retiring. Years ago, Bruce walked into my small store in NYC and bought a couple of handmade cows. Sending healing vibes to him and his family."