Bruce Willis, born March 19, 1955, is a retired American actor who has appeared in over 100 films during his 42-year career. While he achieved fame playing the leading role, David Addison, in the 1980s the comedy-drama series Moonlighting, Willis gained recognition for his portrayal of the action hero John McClane in the Die Hard franchise.
Early life
Willis was born in Idar-Oberstein, West Germany, where his father was stationed as a U.S. soldier. His mother was German. When he was a young boy, his family moved to Carneys Point, New Jersey. As a child, Willis struggled with a stutter, but a passion for acting helped him overcome it.
He first discovered his love for acting in high school, but didn't pursue it until college. Although he initially enrolled at Montclair State University in New Jersey, Willis eventually dropped out and moved to New York City to pursue his dreams. His breakthrough role came in 1985 when he was cast as private detective David Addison in Moonlighting.
Movie roles
In 1988, Willis took on the role that would define his career: John McClane in Die Hard. The film launched him into stardom and established him as an action hero. Willis reprised his role in several sequels, solidifying his legacy in Hollywood.
Beyond Die Hard, Willis showcased his range as an actor when he appeared in Pulp Fiction, The Sixth Sense, 12 Monkeys, and Armageddon. Throughout his career, Willis became known for his dedication to his work, starring in over 100 films and earning numerous awards and nominations.
Personal life
Off-screen, he was a devoted father who managed to maintain a close relationship with his ex-wife Demi Moore while married to his wife Emma Heming.
In 2022, Willis retired from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia, a condition that affects language and communication. Later, his family revealed he had frontotemporal dementia, a rare and progressive brain disorder. Despite his challenges, Willis remains a beloved figure in Hollywood.