The Sixth Sense star Haley Joel Osment has penned a poignant tribute to Bruce Willis online.
The Die Hard legend was recently diagnosed with aphasia, a condition that affects a person's cognitive abilities, specifically impacting their language and speech and causing problems with reading, writing and listening.
A statement from his family read: "As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him."
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Osment famously starred alongside Willis in The Sixth Sense, M. Night Shyamalan's 1999 chiller about a young boy who can see dead people. If you've somehow not seen it and don't know anything about the story, you should watch it immediately.
The film saw Osment earn worldwide critical acclaim, becoming one of the youngest Oscar nominees in history.
In an Instagram post about Willis following his diagnosis, he wrote: "It’s been difficult to find the right words for someone I’ve always looked up to – first on the big screen, and then by some wild stroke of luck, in person.
"He’s a true legend who has enriched all of our lives with a singular career that spans nearly half a century. I am so grateful for what I got to witness firsthand, and for the enormous body of work he built for us to enjoy for years and years to come.
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"I just wanted to express the respect and deep admiration I have for Bruce and his family as they move forward with the courage and high spirits that have always defined them."
Shyamalan also voiced his support for Willis, tweeting: "All my love and respect to my big brother Bruce Willis. I know his wonderful family is surrounding him with support and strength. He will always be that hero on that poster on my wall as kid."
The news sparked a wave of tributes from other co-stars and fans alike, fondly remembering his iconic roles in Pulp Fiction, Unbreakable and The Fifth Element, while also noting his underrated turns in the likes of Moonlighting and Looper.
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Friends star Matthew Perry, who appeared with Willis in The Whole 10 Yards, tweeted: "Dear Bruce Willis, I’m so sorry to hear what you are going through, but you’re still the coolest man I’ve met in my entire life.
"You will remain in my prayers for a long long time. Maybe we should get together and watch The Whole 10 Yards and get a couple of hours of sleep."
For reference, The Whole 10 Yards has a four percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
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Topics: Bruce Willis, Film and TV, Entertainment
Cameron Frew