Super-producer Jerry Bruckheimer shared with People magazine that Bruce Willis displayed generosity on the set of their 1998 blockbuster film “Armageddon” by giving money to crew members in cash giveaways to ensure they had some extra cash at the end of each week. Willis, known for his role opposite Billy Bob Thornton, Liv Tyler, and Ben Affleck, was praised by Bruckheimer as a “good guy” and a “giving guy” on set. The crew of “Armageddon” had a tradition of collecting money each week, and Willis made sure to increase the jackpot with his own money, making the reward even more significant.
“Armageddon” follows a group of oil drillers tasked by NASA to prevent a massive asteroid from colliding with Earth by drilling a nuclear bomb into its core. The film was a massive success, grossing $553.7 million worldwide and being the highest-grossing movie of 1998. Willis’s performance in the film helped solidify his status as a Hollywood action star. However, in 2022, Willis announced his retirement from acting due to his battle with aphasia, which was confirmed to be a result of frontotemporal dementia in 2023. Despite his health challenges, Willis’s former collaborators and friends have continued to praise him for his talent and kindness.
Fellow action star Arnold Schwarzenegger spoke highly of Willis, describing him as a “huge star,” a “great star,” and a “kind man.” Schwarzenegger emphasized that while Willis had to retire due to health issues, action heroes like them never truly retire but continue to make an impact in the industry. Both Schwarzenegger and Willis appeared in Sylvester Stallone’s “The Expendables” franchise together, showcasing their camaraderie and shared experiences in the action genre. Willis’s contributions to the industry and his memorable performances have left a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated by his peers.
Willis’s generosity and kindness on the set of “Armageddon” and his impressive filmography have garnered him respect and admiration from his colleagues and fans alike. His ability to connect with audiences through his performances and his humility behind the scenes have further solidified his status as a beloved Hollywood icon. Despite facing health challenges that led to his retirement from acting, Willis’s impact on the entertainment industry remains significant. As his friends and collaborators continue to praise his talent and character, Willis’s legacy as a talented actor and a generous individual endures, leaving a lasting impact on the world of film and beyond.
