Actor Bruce Willis has been sidelined by a brain ailment that causes trouble speaking, reading, and writing, drawing attention to a little-known condition with several possible causes.
Aphasia can be caused by a stroke, tumor, head injury, or other damage to the language centers of the brain. It can be brought on by a brain infection or Alzheimer’s disease.
Willis is retiring from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia, a disorder that causes the inability to interpret or express speech, according to his family.
Willis’ family stated on his Instagram page that the 67-year-old actor has recently been diagnosed with aphasia, which is affecting his cognitive ability.
“As a result of this and with much consideration, Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him,” read the statement signed by Willis’ wife, Emma Heming Willis, his ex-wife Demi Moore, and his five children, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel and Evelyn.
“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,” they said. “As Bruce always says, ‘Live it up’ and together we plan to do just that.”