Eric Dane has revealed he has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
The 52-year-old actor shared the announcement with People on April 10, telling the publication that he is grateful for his family and work amidst the diagnosis.
“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” he admitted. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”
“I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week,” the Grey’s Anatomy star continued. “I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”
Dane is married to Rebecca Gayheart, and the couple share two children, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13.
Despite the diagnosis, he is set to return to the set of Euphoria, which is scheduled to start filming on April 14.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Over time, it leads to the loss of muscle control, impacting a person’s ability to move, speak, eat, and eventually, breathe.
There is currently no cure for ALS, and symptoms typically begin with muscle twitching, weakness in the limbs, or difficulty speaking. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience increasing paralysis while their cognitive function remains largely intact.
While treatments can help manage symptoms and potentially slow progression, ALS is often life-limiting. The average life expectancy following diagnosis is typically two to five years, although some people live significantly longer.
Several high-profile figures have battled ALS, helping to raise awareness of the disease. These include baseball legend Lou Gehrig, physicist Stephen Hawking, actor and playwright Sam Shepard, and former NFL player Steve Gleason, who has become a prominent advocate since his diagnosis.
