Eric Dane’s Strength Shines After ALS Diagnosis

Eric Dane, the actor known for his roles in Euphoria and Grey’s Anatomy, publicly shared in April 2025 that he has been diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. The 52-year-old actor made the announcement during an interview on Good Morning America, where he spoke openly about the challenges he now faces and his determination to stay strong.

ALS affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to gradual loss of muscle control. There is no known cure, and the disease typically worsens over time. Dane revealed that his symptoms began with weakness in his right arm in early 2024. He initially thought it was a minor injury, but after months of testing and follow-up, doctors confirmed the ALS diagnosis in March 2025.

“This is not the end of me,” Dane said during the interview. “I’m still here. I still have a voice, and I want to use it for something that matters.”

He added that while the diagnosis was devastating, he remains focused on the present. He credited his family, close friends, and the support of fans for helping him maintain hope and purpose. “The people around me have given me strength I didn’t know I had,” he said.

Dane rose to fame in the mid-2000s with his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, where he was nicknamed “McSteamy” by fans. He later earned praise for his complex performance as Cal Jacobs on HBO’s Euphoria. Known for playing characters with emotional intensity, Dane has been respected for his range and screen presence.

Since the diagnosis, he has begun working with ALS advocacy organizations to raise awareness about the disease and support ongoing research. In his public statements, Dane has encouraged early testing and attention to symptoms that are often dismissed. “I want people to take their health seriously,” he said. “I ignored signs for too long.”

Colleagues in the entertainment industry responded with messages of support and admiration. Zendaya, Dane’s Euphoria co-star, wrote on social media: “Eric is one of the strongest people I know. He’s faced this with honesty and heart, and I’m proud to call him a friend.”

Dane has not confirmed whether he will continue acting. However, he stated that he remains creatively engaged and is exploring opportunities to work behind the scenes. He also expressed interest in using his platform to support medical causes and speak out for people living with disabilities.

In closing his Good Morning America interview, Dane said, “I’m not giving up. I’m living my life as fully as I can, for as long as I can. And I plan to make it count.”

Eric Dane’s courage in facing ALS has brought attention to a disease that affects thousands of people each year. His openness is helping to spark new conversations about resilience, health, and the power of public awareness.