Bruce Willis cheers LA first responders as he steps out in public for first time since dementia diagnosis

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Bruce Willis, the beloved 'Die Hard' actor, has been spotted in public for the first time since his diagnosis with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) was revealed in 2023.

The 69-year-old star was seen expressing gratitude to Los Angeles first responders amid ongoing wildfires in the area, reported by People.

Bruce Willis shows gratitude to first responders amid LA wildfires

On Thursday, January 16, Willis' wife Emma Heming Willis shared a touching black-and-white video on Instagram. The clip featured Willis, wearing a New York Yankees cap, shaking hands with first responders and posing for photos.

Set to Led Zeppelin’s 'Going to California', the wholesome moment captured Willis’ characteristic warmth and appreciation.

“Spotting a first responder, Bruce never missed a chance to show his gratitude with a heartfelt handshake and a ‘thank you for your service,’” Emma, 46, wrote in the caption. “Yesterday was no different.”

The couple’s youngest daughter, Tallulah Willis, added in the comments, “This makes my heart so freaking full.”

This rare public outing marks Willis’ first appearance since his family shared news of his diagnosis. Initially, in 2022, they announced he had been diagnosed with aphasia, a language disorder, leading to his retirement from acting. A year later, the condition was clarified as FTD, a progressive disorder that impacts the brain’s frontal and temporal lobes.

Emma has been candid about navigating life after Bruce’s diagnosis. In December, she reflected on their relationship’s milestones with an emotional Instagram post marking 17 years since they began dating. “Anniversaries used to bring excitement now they stir up all the feelings, leaving a heaviness in my heart,” she wrote.

"I give myself 30 minutes to sit in the ‘why him, why us,’ to feel the anger and grief. Then I shake it off and return to what is. And what is… is unconditional love. I feel blessed to know it, and it’s because of him. I’d do it all over again and again in a heartbeat."

Bruce and Emma share two daughters, Mabel, 12, and Evelyn, 10. He is also father to Rumer, 36, Scout, 33, and Tallulah, 29, with ex-wife Demi Moore.

Bruce Willis thanks first responders during wildfires, sparking online praise

Bruce Willis has once again shown his appreciation for others, this time by thanking first responders during the ongoing wildfires. His heartfelt gesture has touched fans worldwide, who took to social media to express their admiration for the actor’s gratitude and kindness.

One fan praised his gesture, writing, "He really is an amazing human nothing can take that from him." Another shared their joy, saying, "This makes my heart so freaking full."

The admiration continued with a user commenting, "Always kind and always grateful. Your man is one of a kind!"

Many fans noted that Willis’ actions are a testament to his character. "This is so sweet, a reflection of his core personality," wrote one fan, while another added, "Bruce looks so good!!!!! This makes my heart happy."

A particularly touching comment read, "Aaahhhh I'm so glad he still has that smile on his face and I believe you are a big part of that, Emma."

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