Bruce Willis’ wife Emma blasts ‘noisy’ haters over moving the actor into care home amid FTD battle: ‘Opinions are so loud’

 

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Also read: Bruce Willis’ wife Emma Heming reveals the ‘hardest decision’ she had to make after his dementia diagnosis: ‘He would want that for our daughters’; how family can offer support

Married to Bruce since 2009, after his split with Demi Moore, Emma said she was fully aware of the criticism that would come her way. “People with an opinion [are quick to judge] the caregiver,” she said, adding, “That is what caregivers are up against, constant judgment and criticism.” In the video, the Make Time Wellness founder reads an excerpt from her book, recalling what a therapist once told her: “Nothing changes an opinion quite as powerfully as when you have an experience. Even if someone is familiar with dementia or the condition you’re caring for, they aren’t in your home. They don’t see how your person is behaving or what your family dynamics are.” She ended the video by saying, “The truth is the opinions are so loud and so noisy. But if they don’t have the experience, they don’t get a say, and they definitely don’t get a vote.”

During the ABC interview, Emma admitted that moving Bruce out was one of the most heartbreaking choices she’s had to make, telling Diane Sawyer with tears in her eyes. Sawyer later got a chance to visit Bruce’s new home off-camera and confirmed he was in good health, physically strong, smiling, and at ease. Emma said that her intention was never to isolate him. She and their daughters, Mabel (13) and Evelyn (11), spend plenty of time there. “We’re there a lot. It’s our second home, so the girls have their things there. It’s filled with love, warmth, and laughter,” she said.

Also read: Bruce Willis’ wife Emma Heming reveals why she no longer lives with him as he battles FTD

Emma also spoke about his condition, dismissing rumours about his declining health. At 70, Bruce is doing well physically, but frontotemporal dementia is impacting his language skills. Still, Emma said his old self shines when he smiles. “It’s his laugh, right? He has such a hearty laugh. And sometimes you’ll see that twinkle in his eye, that smirk, and for a moment I get transported. But then, just as quickly, it goes,” she admitted, visibly heartbroken.

Bruce retired from acting in 2022 after being diagnosed with aphasia, which later took the form of FTD. The disease reportedly affects around 60,000 Americans and is one of the most common forms of dementia in people under 60. Emma has since become a strong advocate for dementia awareness and caregiver support. Her book, The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on The Caregiving Path will be made available on September 9.