Eric Dane, best known for his roles as Dr. Mark Sloan (McSteamy) on Grey’s Anatomy and Cal Jacobs on HBO’s Euphoria, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) — a rare and incurable neurodegenerative disease.
A Courageous Announcement
In an exclusive statement to People magazine, the 52-year-old actor shared the news of his diagnosis:
“I have been diagnosed with ALS. I’m grateful to have the love and support of my family as we navigate this journey.”
Dane is surrounded by his close family: his ex-wife Rebecca Gayheart and their two daughters — 15-year-old Billie Beatrice and 13-year-old Georgia Geraldine — who are all supporting him through this life-altering period.
Continuing to Work
Despite the diagnosis, Eric Dane is not stepping away from his career. In fact, he is set to begin filming the third season of Euphoria on April 14, 2025, just days after publicly sharing his health condition. He will continue his role as Cal Jacobs, showing remarkable strength and commitment to his work.
What is ALS?
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurological disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, loss of speech, and eventually difficulty walking, eating, and breathing.
There is no known cure for ALS. On average, life expectancy after diagnosis ranges from 3 to 5 years, though some people live significantly longer. Eric Dane now joins a list of public figures who have faced ALS, including Stephen Hawking, Roberta Flack, and Eric Stevens.
Family Bond and Personal Life
Eric Dane and Rebecca Gayheart married in 2004 and filed for divorce in 2018. However, in March 2025, they officially requested to dismiss the divorce, signaling a renewed sense of unity and mutual support.
Speaking just a day before the diagnosis became public, Rebecca referred to Eric as her “best friend”, emphasizing their strong co-parenting bond and deep friendship despite past challenges.
A Community of Strength
Dane’s openness about his diagnosis shines a light on the realities of living with ALS. His courage in continuing to work and share his journey publicly has already begun to inspire fans around the world.
As he embarks on this challenging path, Eric Dane is receiving an outpouring of love and support from the entertainment industry, fans, and advocacy groups dedicated to ALS awareness and research.
Final Thoughts
Eric Dane’s legacy as McSteamy and beyond has touched millions. His decision to share his ALS diagnosis with grace and transparency adds a new, deeply human dimension to his public image. As he continues to fight the disease with the support of his loved ones, the world will be watching — not only with admiration but with hope.
