Bruce Willis. Steven Bergman/AFF-USA.COM/MEGA
It was a change of heart. The Razzie Awards have walked back their decision to continue their “Worst Performance by Bruce Willis in 2021” award following the actor’s recent health issues.
“After much thought consideration, the Razzies have made the decision to rescind the Razzie Award given to Bruce Willis, due to his recently disclosed diagnosis,” cofounders John Wilson and Mo MurphyIn a statement The WrapThursday, March 31. “If someone’s medical condition is a factor in their decision making and/or their performance, we acknowledge that it is not appropriate to give them a Razzie.”
The Academy Awards, also known under the Golden Raspberry Awards were criticized for their initial response regarding concerns about the trophy.
“The Razzies are truly sorry for #BruceWillis diagnosed condition. This could explain why he decided to go out with a bang 2021. Our best wishes to Bruce and family,” the Twitter account for the awards show tweeted on Wednesday, March 30. “To clarify, we heard about Willis’ diagnosis at the same time everyone else did … just this morning.”
Earlier that day, Willis’ loved ones announced that the Armageddon star, 67, would be “stepping away” from his acting career. “As a family we wanted to share that our beloved Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia,” an Instagram statement from Bruce’s wife, Emma Heming WillisEx-wife of he. Demi MooreHis children and he read Wednesday to each other. “As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him.”
The social media post noted that his medical diagnosis has been “impacting his cognitive abilities” in recent years. “This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion and support,” his family concluded. “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.”
Wilson and Murphy also addressed the negative feedback on the Bruce Razzie Award that day.
“We are truly sorry to hear about Willis’ diagnosis, of which we were unaware until the story broke earlier today. In Willis’ defense, perhaps his reps should not have let him do such a high volume of work in so short a time. We offer our best wishes to Bruce and his family,” they told IndieWire, later adding, “We are still discussing how to handle the news about Willis’ diagnosis and will get back to you.”
