Eric Dane, best known for his role on Grey’s Anatomy, has shared heartbreaking news with the world: he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
The 52-year-old actor made the announcement in a statement to People, expressing his gratitude for the support of his family as he faces this difficult challenge.
What Is ALS?
ALS, also referred to as motor neurone disease in some parts of the world, is a rare and incurable degenerative disease that affects the nervous system.
Over time, it leads to the paralysis of muscles as the disease progressively damages the motor neurons, which are essential nerve cells in the brain and spine.
While the average life expectancy for ALS patients is about three years from diagnosis, some individuals can live much longer, though the condition severely limits physical capabilities as it advances.
A Positive Outlook Despite the Diagnosis
Despite the heavy news, Eric remains hopeful and determined to keep moving forward. He expressed feeling fortunate to be surrounded by his loving family as they navigate this new chapter together.
“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” Eric shared, “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”
He also shared that he is looking forward to returning to work, including his role on the HBO series Euphoria. “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working,” he added.
A Family United
This news comes just a month after Eric and his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, decided to call off their divorce.
The couple, who shares two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13, had been through a lot together, including a public and challenging period in their marriage.
However, they now appear to be in a better place, focusing on their family and co-parenting.
Rebecca has been supportive throughout the ups and downs of Eric’s career and personal life.
Reflecting on their relationship, she said, “We are really close. We are great co-parents. We really figured out the formula to staying a family, and I think our kids are benefiting greatly from it.”
Their decision to dismiss the divorce in March came after a long and drawn-out process, in which the couple had appeared to find a way to remain amicable despite personal struggles.
A Look Back at Their Relationship
Eric and Rebecca’s relationship has had its share of public challenges.
They first married in 2004, and Eric rose to fame playing Dr. Mark Sloan, aka McSteamy, on Grey’s Anatomy. Their marriage weathered multiple scandals, including a leaked video that exposed intimate moments with an ex-beauty queen and Eric’s struggles with substance abuse.
Rebecca stood by Eric through his rehab in 2011 and a subsequent battle with depression in 2017, which led to a temporary filming break on The Last Ship.
In 2018, Rebecca filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences.
However, the divorce proceedings dragged on, with the couple continuing to co-parent their daughters and maintain an amicable relationship.
Despite the difficulties, they shared mutual respect for one another and have continued to focus on their family above all else.
A New Chapter Ahead
With Eric’s ALS diagnosis, the family faces yet another challenge, but the support they have for one another remains unwavering.
Both Eric and Rebecca have expressed their commitment to their family and continue to focus on co-parenting their daughters.
Rebecca, who has spoken openly about the importance of working to support herself and serve as a role model for her children, is continuing to pursue her career.
As Eric navigates his ALS diagnosis, his family’s support and the love they have for one another are undoubtedly central to facing what comes next.
