Eric Dane, widely recognized for his roles in “Grey’s Anatomy” and HBO’s “Euphoria,” has publicly disclosed his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Despite the challenging news, the 52-year-old actor remains committed to his craft, expressing his intention to continue working, including returning to the set of “Euphoria” for its upcoming third season.
In an exclusive statement to People magazine, Dane shared, “I have been diagnosed with ALS. I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” He further added, “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control. The disease is progressive and currently has no cure. While the average life expectancy after diagnosis is three to five years, some individuals have lived longer, depending on various factors.
Dane’s announcement comes shortly after news that he and his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, have decided to call off their divorce. The couple, who married in 2004, had filed for divorce in 2018 after 14 years of marriage but recently chose to reconcile. They share two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13.
Throughout his career, Dane has been open about his personal struggles, including a past battle with depression. In 2017, he took a brief hiatus from his TNT series “The Last Ship” to address his mental health.
Fans and colleagues have expressed their support for Dane during this time. His resilience and dedication to his work continue to inspire many, as he prepares to reprise his role as Cal Jacobs in “Euphoria.” Filming for the third season is set to commence soon, with Dane joining returning cast members including Zendaya and Jacob Elordi.
As Dane embarks on this new chapter, he emphasizes the importance of privacy for his family and gratitude for the support they’ve received. His commitment to his career and openness about his diagnosis serve as a testament to his strength and determination.
