Bruce Willis.Photo: SGranitz/WireImage/Getty
AfterBruce Willis' family sharedhis aphasia diagnosis, a friend of the actor tells PEOPLE his Hollywood peers are there for him.
Aside from his family, the actor is getting"support" from his Hollywood community, as a friend close to Bruce says, “Bruce is beloved and everyone in Hollywood is very supportive of him and will rally around him.”
“He’s one of the guys everyone loves in Hollywood — one of the most beloved movie stars,” the friend says. “His family is rallying around him.”
On Wednesday, Bruce’s wifeEmma Heming Willis, ex-wifeDemi Mooreand daughtersRumer,Scout, Tallulah,MabelandEvelynshared a statement on Instagram about his diagnosis, revealing that the 67-year-oldhas aphasia and is retiring from acting.
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“He’s a very devoted husband and father. There’s so much goodwill for him,” Bruce’s friend says. “He’s a wonderful person, and has always had the best sense of humor — and a sense of a grace. Everyone is rooting for him.”
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Bruce’s family shared the news of his aphasia diagnosis on Instagram Wednesday, writing alongside a photo of the actor on their Instagram feeds, “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 considerationBruce is stepping away from the careerthat has meant so much to him,” the caption added.
According toMayo Clinic, aphasia “robs you of the ability to communicate” and “can affect your ability to speak, write and understand language, both verbal and written.” The group adds that the condition “typically occurs suddenly after a stroke or a head injury. But it can also come on gradually from a slow-growing brain tumor or a disease that causes progressive, permanent damage (degenerative).”
Bruce’s family’s Instagram posts went on to say that it “is a really challenging time” for them all, “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,” they concluded,signing the notefrom Emma, 43, Moore, 59, Rumer, 33, Scout, 30, Tallulah, 28, Mabel, 9, and Evelyn, 7.
Bruce Willis.Rich Fury/Getty Images
Randall Emmett, who directed Bruce in 2021’sMidnight in the Switchgrass, told PEOPLE amid his diagnosis, “Bruce and I have worked on over 20 films together. He is a terrific actor and legendary action star, an incredible father and a close friend. I fully support Bruce and his family during this challenging time and admire him for his courage in battling this incredibly difficult medical condition. Bruce will always be a part of our family.”
Seth Greentweeted, “I haveso 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.”
source: people.com
