Bruce Willis Has Retired From Acting Due To Aphasia, A Brain Disease

After being diagnosed with aphasia, a disorder that impairs a person's ability to talk and write, Bruce Willis will retire from acting.

On Wednesday, the actor's family, including his wife Emma Heming-Willis and ex-wife Demi Moore, posted an update on his status on Instagram.

Aphasia is affecting his cognitive ability, according to the statement.

Willis, 67, is most remembered for his role as John McClane in the Die Hard movies, which catapulted him to fame.

"After considerable thought, Bruce has decided to leave the career that has meant so much to him," his family said in a statement. "Our family is going through a really difficult period right now, and we are so grateful for your continuing love and concern."

His acting career began in the early 1980s, although he did not become a household name until later in the decade, first in the ABC TV series Moonlighting with Cybill Shepherd, and then in his 1988 portrayal as John McClane in the first Die Hard film.

According to Variety, his films The Sixth Sense, Armageddon, and Pulp Fiction have grossed more over $5 billion worldwide since then. He's been nominated for five Golden Globes and won one for Moonlighting. He's also been nominated for three Emmys and won two of them.

Following the announcement, a number of actors and other celebrities sent their sympathies to Willis and his family.

"Grace and bravery!" In response to Demi Moore's remark, actress Jamie Lee Curtis replied, "Love to you all!"