<p>Action hero Bruce Willis, star of the <em>Die Hard</em> franchise, is to retire from acting due to illness, his family announced Wednesday.</p>.<p>"Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia, which is impacting his cognitive abilities," a post on Instagram signed by his family said.</p>.<p>"As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him."</p>.<p>The post is signed by Willis' current wife, Emma Heming Willis, as well as former wife, actress Demi Moore, and his children Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel and Evelyn.</p>.<p>"This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion and support.</p>.<p>"We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him.</p>.<p>"As Bruce always says, 'Live it up' and together we plan to do just that."</p>.<p>According to the Mayo Clinic, aphasia often occurs after a stroke or a head injury, and "robs you of the ability to communicate."</p>.<p>"It can affect your ability to speak, write and understand language, both verbal and written."</p>.<p><strong>Check out DH's latest videos:</strong></p>
<p>Action hero Bruce Willis, star of the <em>Die Hard</em> franchise, is to retire from acting due to illness, his family announced Wednesday.</p>.<p>"Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia, which is impacting his cognitive abilities," a post on Instagram signed by his family said.</p>.<p>"As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him."</p>.<p>The post is signed by Willis' current wife, Emma Heming Willis, as well as former wife, actress Demi Moore, and his children Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel and Evelyn.</p>.<p>"This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion and support.</p>.<p>"We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him.</p>.<p>"As Bruce always says, 'Live it up' and together we plan to do just that."</p>.<p>According to the Mayo Clinic, aphasia often occurs after a stroke or a head injury, and "robs you of the ability to communicate."</p>.<p>"It can affect your ability to speak, write and understand language, both verbal and written."</p>.<p><strong>Check out DH's latest videos:</strong></p>