In a poignant moment during a special anniversary episode of the popular dance competition, former host Tom Bergeron offered heartfelt words of support for actor Bruce Willis and his family.
Bergeron, who returned to the show as a guest judge for its 20th-anniversary celebration, addressed the actor’s daughter, Rumer Willis, after her performance. The dancer had returned to the ballroom for the first time since winning the competition in 2015, participating in a relay dance.
“One of the highlights of your season was meeting your dad,” Bergeron said to Rumer during the broadcast. “I just want to send my warm wishes to you, your dad, and your family.”
The tribute comes as Bruce Willis continues to live with frontotemporal dementia, a diagnosis his family shared publicly in 2023. In recent months, his wife, Emma Heming Willis, has spoken candidly about the challenges of caregiving, including the difficult decision for him to live separately to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in the family.
She has emphasized the intensely personal nature of such decisions, stating that no two experiences with dementia are the same and that families must do what is safest for their loved ones. In a recent television interview, she also highlighted the immense pressure on caregivers, noting the importance of seeking support and rejecting the stigma of asking for help.
Rumer Willis’s return was a success, as her performance helped secure additional points for her dance partner, advancing them further in the competition. The evening blended celebration with a moment of sincere human connection, reminding viewers of the personal stories that extend far beyond the glitter of the stage.
