Emma Heming Willis has opened up about her approach to discussing her husband Bruce Willis’ diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) with their young daughters. In a recent interview, she revealed insights into the family’s communication methods and the challenges they face as they navigate this difficult journey together.
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Emma, 47, shared her thoughts in an interview with the Spanish newspaper El País as she promotes her new book, *The Unexpected Journey*, which focuses on her experiences as a caregiver. In March 2022, the Willis family announced Bruce’s initial diagnosis of aphasia, a condition that prompted the actor to step back from his iconic film career. The following year, Emma disclosed that Bruce, now 71, had been diagnosed with FTD, a progressive brain disorder that affects behaviour and language.
With the couple’s two daughters, Mabel, 14, and Evelyn, 12, as well as Bruce’s three adult daughters, Rumer, 37, Scout, 34, and Tallulah, 32, from his previous marriage to actress Demi Moore, communication has taken on a new significance. Emma acknowledged that discussing their father’s condition has not only been challenging for her but also vital for the children’s understanding of the situation.
In her interview, Emma reflected on the importance of age-appropriate conversations. “We always feel like we make the world and everything be rainbows and unicorns for our children,” she explained. “But that’s not our world. What we’re going through as a family is quite different.” She highlighted her commitment to providing truthful information while being receptive to her daughters’ questions, fostering a sense of safety and trust regarding their father’s condition.
Emma is candid about the difficulties that come with being a caregiver and a parent, admitting, “I’m not a perfect caregiver. I’m not a perfect person. I’m just trying to do the best I can.” Her honesty about the challenges helps convey to her daughters that everyone is doing their best amidst imperfect circumstances.
In a 2025 interview with PEOPLE, Emma discussed her decision to move Bruce to a separate, one-story home nearby, recognising his need for a calm environment conducive to his well-being. The new living arrangement also benefits Mabel and Evelyn, allowing them to enjoy their home without the stress of tiptoeing around their father’s condition. This decision underscores Emma’s focus on striking a balance between her children’s needs and those of her husband.
As she explained, “The kids can have playdates and sleepovers again. It’s important that they have a home that supports their needs, just as Bruce needs a space that supports his.” The careful planning reflects the family’s adaptive strategies in managing their new reality.
Emma has also hinted at their overall family dynamics during a recent appearance on the *Today* show, where she spoke about her women’s brain health brand, Make Time Wellness. “You know, we’re doing well,” she said, reassuring viewers. “My husband is supported and loved, and we’re doing the best we can under the circumstances.”
The couple celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary on March 21, marking nearly two decades of love and partnership. They initially met in 2007 and went on to marry in an intimate ceremony in Turks and Caicos in 2009. This year, Emma commemorated their anniversary by sharing a heartfelt photo on social media, accompanied by the touching caption, “I was made to love him. 17 years 💍🤍.”
Despite the challenges that come with Bruce’s condition, Emma’s reflections reveal a dedication to open communication, love, and support within their family. As they navigate this unexpected journey together, Emma’s insights serve as an inspiration to countless families facing similar struggles, reminding us that compassion and honesty are vital in difficult times.