Arnold Schwarzenegger on Bruce Willis’ retirement from Hollywood

© MARIO ANZUONI (Reuters) Cast member Arnold Schwarzenegger attends a premiere for the Netflix series

In February it was revealed by his wife Emma Heming Willis that actor Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. Since then, Willis has retired from Hollywood.

While speaking with CinemaBlend, Arnold Schwarzenegger stated the he understands why Willis chose to retire and had nothing but praise for Willis.

"I think that he's fantastic," Schwarzenegger said. "He ... is a huge, huge star. And I think that he will always be remembered as a great, great star, and a kind man.

Both actors appeared in the 'Expendables' franchise.

"In general, you know, we never really retire. Action heroes, they reload."

Willis' battle with dementia

Willis' frontotemporal dementia is a condition caused by the worsening of his aphasia diagnosis, which was revealed to the public in 2022.

According to the National Institutes of Health, frontotemporal dementia is "the result of damage to neurons in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Many possible symptoms can result, including unusual behaviors, emotional problems, trouble communicating, difficulty with work, or difficulty with walking.

"FTD is rare and tends to occur at a younger age than other forms of dementia. Roughly 60% of people with FTD are 45 to 64 years old."

Emma's statement

Emma Heming Willis released a statement in February addressing the diagnosis.

"Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis," she said at the time.

"Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others, and to raise awareness about important issues both publicly and privately. We know in our hearts that – if he could today — he would want to respond by bringing global attention and a connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families," she concluded.