Actor Eric Dane, known for his role in Euphoria, has shared the difficult news that he has been diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. In a statement to People, Dane expressed gratitude for his family’s support during this challenging time, saying, “I have been diagnosed with ALS. I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”
Dane is married to actress Rebecca Gayheart, and the couple has two daughters, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13. Despite the diagnosis, Dane plans to continue working. He will return to the set of Euphoria next week as filming for season 3 begins on April 14. He remarked, “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working” and asked for privacy for his family as they face this difficult time together.
ALS is a progressive disease that impacts the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing muscle weakness and the eventual loss of motor function. It can begin with symptoms like weakness in a limb or difficulty speaking and progresses to affect the ability to walk, eat, and breathe. Sadly, there is currently no cure for ALS, and most people live three to five years following their diagnosis, though some may live longer.
Dane mentioned that he had experienced leg pain for years before learning it was linked to ALS. He now joins a number of public figures who have been affected by the disease, including theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, singer Roberta Flack, actor Kenneth Mitchell, and country singer Joe Bonsall.
Dane was last seen at the premiere of Bad Boys: Ride or Die in Hollywood in May 2024. Since the announcement, fans and friends have flooded social media with messages of support. For now, Dane is focused on his family, his health, and his work, choosing to approach his diagnosis with strength and gratitude.