"Eric Dane Battling ALS but Refusing to Quit Acting
In Spite of ALS Diagnosis, Eric Dane Persists with Work Commitments - Actor Eric Dane persists in his career despite battling ALS.
Hey there!
You won't believe the latest celebrity news – Eric Dane (52), famed for his role on "Grey's Anatomy," revealed he's dealing with a tough challenge: ALS, a neurological disorder causing muscle weakness. But this guy's not backing down! He shared his thoughts in a recent chat with "E! News."
Dane opened up about life with ALS and why he's sticking with acting. "I'm gonna keep going till the tires fall off. Keeps my mind sharp, moves me forward – crucial right now," Dane shared his thoughts.
"Feels awesome at work," he went on. "Sure, faced some setbacks, but I'm doing good. My spirits are high – that's what counts."
Just this week on "Good Morning America," Dane talked about those setbacks. A year and a half into symptoms, he lost control of his right arm, and worries about losing mobility in other areas. "Right side's bunk. Left side's functioning. Might lose my left hand soon, though. That's a bummer," he shared, adding that he's concerned about his legs, too.
Back on Set Following ALS Diagnosis
Despite all this, Dane's back on the set of "Euphoria" soon after announcing his condition! Married to actress Rebecca Gayheart (53), Dane stayed optimistic during his interview with "E! News." "Won't call it the end of my story," he reassured.
Did you know Dane's partaking in a research study and taking approved medication to slow ALS progression? He's doing physical and speech therapies to maintain his quality of life[1][5]. Although he's aware of the uncertain future and the symptoms he could face, he finds hope in his medical team led by Dr. Merit Cudkowicz[5].
In short, Eric Dane's battling ALS but refuses to give up acting. With determination and hope, he focuses on managing the disease and maintaining his abilities as long as possible[1][5].
[1] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2025, June). Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Amyotrophic-Lateral-Sclerosis-ALS-Information-Page[2] Variety. (2025, April). Eric Dane Reveals ALS Diagnosis. Available at: https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/eric-dane-als-amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-1235392605/[3] Mayo Clinic. (2025, June). Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ams/symptoms-causes/syc-20351523[5] National ALS Foundation. (2025, June). Eric Dane's Journey with ALS. Available at: https://www.alsa.org/fighting-als/ambassadors/eric-dane.html
- Eric Dane, despite being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), found comfort in his work and declared he would continue acting "until the wheels fall off."
- Science plays a crucial role in Dane's journey as he participates in a research study and takes approved medication to slow the progression of ALS.
- Dane's determination to manage his chronic disease (ALS) is motived by his interests in health and wellness, which include fitness, exercise, and maintaining his mental health through nutrition.
- Dane's fight against a neurological disorder (ALS) has gained attention within the entertainment industry, making him an inspiration for other celebrities and fans.
- Dane's story serves as a powerful example of resilience, highlighting the importance of medical-condition research, treatment, and self-care for individuals living with chronic diseases such as ALS.
