Bruce Willis has been navigating a tough health journey since he was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. This disease affects cognitive function and behavior, but in spite of all that, Willis has been blessed with love and care, especially from old friends like Don Johnson, who recently took the time to give him credit and offer him support.
Johnson reflected on their relationship and also liked how he could now work with Willis’ daughter, Rumer, on the medical drama Doctor Odyssey. For Johnson, this was not just another job but a testament to how far their friendship has come.
Don Johnson and Bruce Willis are very close
Before Willis became an action movie legend, he was just another struggling actor in New York trying to make it big in Hollywood. In the early days, Johnson, who was also making his presence felt in the industry, came across Willis and instantly recognized something special about him. They first crossed paths in the theater industry, where Willis’ natural charm and sense of humor intrigued Johnson.
Johnson, already making a name for himself on television shows, saw his potential, and before long became close friends. While Johnson’s career took off, Willis patiently waited for his moment, working on small jobs, then bartending to make ends meet. Their friendship survived the years despite the fact that they both had different career paths in Hollywood.
Don Johnson helped Bruce Willis land his first TV job
Determined to help his friend, Johnson called the Miami Vice casting office and suggested they offer Willis an audition. It was a minor role, but Johnson felt it could be the beginning of something for Willis. The casting director agreed, and Willis had his first real television chance.
While the role was small, it was a turning point in Willis’ career. Before long, he landed the top spot in Moonlighting, a hit show that catapulted him into stardom. The success of Moonlighting paved the way for Die Hard, which cemented him as one of Hollywood’s all-time greatest action heroes.