Actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has revealed that he is battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and incurable neurological disease. Despite the physical toll, Dane remains active in his career and determined to keep working.
The 52-year-old actor first confirmed his diagnosis earlier this year. In a recent interview with Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America, Dane disclosed that he has completely lost the use of his right arm and is rapidly losing strength in his left. He also expressed concern that he may soon lose mobility in his legs.
“I didn’t think much of it at first,” he said, recalling the initial signs. “Then I started losing control of my arm entirely.” A pivotal moment came when he was swimming with his daughters and suddenly could not lift himself back into the boat. One of his daughters had to help him climb aboard. “That was hard,” Dane said, holding back emotion.
ALS attacks the motor neurons, leading to the loss of voluntary muscle control. Over time, patients can lose the ability to speak, eat, move, or breathe without assistance. Median life expectancy after diagnosis is two to five years, though some live longer.
The actor spoke candidly about the emotional weight of his condition, especially as a father of two teenage girls. Dane’s own father died by suicide when he was seven. “There’s a very good chance I’m going to be taken from my girls while they’re still young,” he said. “And that makes me angry.”
Still, he emphasized resilience. “This isn’t the end of my story. I’m going to fight.”
Dane is continuing to work, appearing in the new Prime Video action-thriller Countdown, alongside Jensen Ackles and Jessica Camacho. Despite the physical limitations, he says the set gives him energy and focus. “I feel good when I’m working. It helps keep my mind sharp.”
Ackles praised Dane’s commitment and performance, calling him “a total stud” and “one of the most resilient guys I know.”
Dane is also undergoing treatment under the supervision of Dr. Merit Cudkowicz, chief of neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital and a leading expert in ALS. He is participating in experimental programs aimed at slowing the disease’s progression and using FDA-approved medications to manage symptoms.
The actor has also reconnected with his ex-wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, who filed for divorce in 2018. Though the couple is not back together romantically, they are co-parenting their daughters and supporting each other through the health crisis. “We’re a family,” Dane said.
As one of the few high-profile figures to publicly share an ALS diagnosis in recent years, Dane’s story has drawn attention from across the entertainment industry and health community. Advocates hope his openness will lead to increased public awareness and support for ALS research.
