Emma Heming Willis, wife of Bruce Willis, issued an emotional plea to the paparazzi in an Instagram post, begging them to "keep your space" following her husband's recent diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
In her post this weekend, Willis addressed a video that circulated of her husband out having coffee with friends, pleading with photographers trying to get the "exclusive" story:
"I know this is your job, but maybe just keep your space."
She continued:
"Please don't be yelling at my husband, asking him how he's doing, or whatever. The woo-hooing and the yippee-ki-yay's - just don't do it."
"Give him the space. Allow for our family or whoever's with him that day to be able to get him from point a to point b safely."
"That's my PSA."
Willis captioned her post with a question to followers:
"To other caregivers or dementia care specialists navigating this world... Any tips or advice on how to get your loved ones out in the world safely?"
"Please share below 💞"
Many commenters supported Willis in her plea for her husband's safety and privacy.
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
Others offered their advice to her posted question.
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
@emmahemingwillis/Instagram
Bruce was initially diagnosed with aphasia in the spring of 2022, and last month, Emma updated fans with his more specific diagnosis of FTD via Instagram, acknowledging:
"While it is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis."
She also expressed the family's "deepest gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love, support and wonderful stories we have all received since sharing Bruce's original diagnosis."
We wish them all the best as they navigate this territory, and we hope photographers respect Willis' wish for the privacy and safety of her husband.