Since their first encounter in 2007, Emma Heming Willis has been an unwavering source of support for her husband, Bruce Willis, embracing both his immense talent and his warm personality.
Over the years, she has openly expressed admiration for their relationship, especially after his diagnosis of aphasia in March 2022 and, later, frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
On their 17th wedding anniversary in December 2024, Emma reflected on their shared journey and the emotions it evoked. “Anniversaries used to feel exciting, now they bring a whirlwind of emotions,” she shared on Instagram.
“I allow myself 30 minutes to feel the anger and grief, asking ‘why him, why us,’ but then I move my focus back to what is unconditional love. Knowing it because of him is a blessing, and I’d choose this life with him again and again.”
Emma and Bruce, who married in 2009, have two daughters, Mabel Ray, born in 2012, and Evelyn Penn, born in 2014. Bruce also has three daughters from his previous marriage to Demi Moore, which ended in 2000.
A year after Bruce announced his retirement due to aphasia, his diagnosis was updated to FTD, a condition that affects speech, motor skills, and personality. Emma has championed research for FTD while advocating for caregivers.
Founding Make Time Wellness
To address brain health and caregiving challenges, she founded Make Time Wellness. Born in Malta, Emma moved to London after her parents’ separation, launching her modeling career in the ’90s with The British Elle Supermodel competition, where she emerged victorious.
Her career included runway appearances for iconic brands such as Chanel, Valentino, and Giorgio Armani, along with acting roles in Perfect Stranger, The Comebacks, and Entourage.
She graced the covers of magazines like Vogue and Marie Claire and participated in a memorable W Magazine photoshoot with Bruce. Reflecting on this collaboration, she humorously noted their ability to balance wholesomeness with bold moments.
Emma and Bruce first met in 2007 at their mutual trainer’s gym. Recalling their early days, Emma described Bruce as unexpectedly funny and charming, sentiments he reciprocated by saying he was already in love with her.
Sailing through their Journey Together
Their 2009 wedding took place at their Turks and Caicos home, followed by a private ceremony in Beverly Hills. In 2024, Emma highlighted the enduring strength of their relationship and their shared respect and admiration.
The couple’s daughters, Mabel and Evelyn, frequently appear on Emma’s social media, showcasing family moments, from seeing Paris to playful times with Bruce at home.
Reflecting on his parenting, Emma described him as instilling values of love, kindness, and resilience. She shared that she’s been transparent with their daughters about Bruce’s condition, addressing their questions honestly and helping them understand its progressive nature.
Bruce’s retirement was publicly announced in March 2022 following his aphasia diagnosis, with FTD revealed later as the underlying cause. Emma admitted the diagnosis brought clarity despite heartbreak, allowing her to seek support for their family.
She emphasized the importance of community and advocacy in their journey, focusing on breaking the stigma surrounding such conditions. Dedicated to supporting others in similar situations, Emma has partnered with The Association for Frontotemporal Dementia and launched initiatives like the Make Time Podcast in 2024.
She is also writing a book about her experiences as a caregiver, set for release in 2025, hoping to share valuable insights and resources with others going through similar challenges.
