Arnold Schwarzenegger Opens Up About Longtime Friend, Bruce Willis, After Being Diagnosed With Dementia

Arnold Schwarzenegger, 75, recently opened up about his longtime friend Bruce Willis’ departure from the acting scene, breaking his silence during the promotion of his latest Netflix series, Fubar. Reflecting on their shared history, Schwarzenegger fondly reminisced about their past achievements and experiences together in the industry.

A past full of collaborations and memories.

Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger, two iconic figures in Hollywood during the 1980s and 1990s, shared a prominent status as stars and even ventured into business together as the faces of Planet Hollywood alongside Sylvester Stallone. They further collaborated in the successful The Expendables film franchise.

Willis’ heartbreaking diagnosis

Willis, who is currently 68 years old, made the decision to retire from acting in March 2022 due to his diagnosis of aphasia, a condition that impacts both language expression and comprehension. However, in February 2023, it was revealed that his condition had advanced, and he had been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.

Arnold’s heartfelt words for his longtime friend.

Schwarzenegger expressed his admiration for his longtime friend Bruce Willis, acknowledging him as a remarkable and enduring star. He highlighted Willis’ significant impact on the industry and emphasized his kind-hearted nature. “I think that he’s fantastic. He was, always for years and years, is a huge, huge star,” he shared. “And I think that he will always be remembered as a great, great star. And a kind man,” the actor went on saying.

Recognizing Willis’ health circumstances that led to his retirement, Schwarzenegger empathized with the decision while also emphasizing that action heroes never truly retire but rather “reload” for new challenges.

In February 2022, Willis’ family, including his daughters Rumer and Scout, announced the sad news of the actor’s retirement. The family expressed gratitude for the continued support from fans during this challenging time and emphasized their unity as a strong family unit. The statement was signed by Willis’ current wife, Emma Heming Willis, his ex Demi Moore, and his children.