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Actor Eric Dane has publicly announced his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a rare and progressive nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The 52-year-old, known for his roles in Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, revealed the news in an exclusive interview with People magazine.
"I have been diagnosed with ALS," Dane stated. "I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter." He shares two children, Billie Beatrice and Georgia Geraldine, with his wife Rebecca Gayheart, who recently filed for a dismissal of their divorce petition.
Despite the diagnosis, Dane says he remains committed to his career. "I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week," he said, requesting privacy for his family during this time.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a degenerative condition that causes progressive paralysis of the muscles. According to the Mayo Clinic, early signs include limb weakness or twitching, often followed by slurred speech. As it progresses, patients lose the ability to walk, talk, eat, and eventually breathe independently. While there is currently no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms.
The disease typically affects individuals between 40 and 70 years old and may be inherited or occur sporadically. In the U.S., about 30,000 people live with ALS, while the UK reports approximately 5,000 cases. The average life expectancy after diagnosis is 27 months, though some, like Stephen Hawking, have lived for decades with a slower-progressing form.
Production for season three of Euphoria is scheduled to begin April 14, with Dane returning to portray Cal Jacobs. Dane joins a list of notable figures diagnosed with ALS, including Roberta Flack, Kenneth Mitchell, and Stephen Hawking.
