Eric Dane, best known for his role as Cal Jacobs in "Euphoria" and one of Hollywood's hunks, has revealed that he’s been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord.
The 52-year-old actor confirmed the diagnosis in an exclusive interview with "People". expressing gratitude for the support of his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie Beatrice,15, and Georgia Geraldine,13.
“I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter,” Dane said. “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of 'Euphoria' next week.”
ALS, also known as motor neurone disease (MND), gradually attacks the motor neurons responsible for controlling voluntary muscles such as those used for walking, speaking, swallowing, and breathing.
As the condition progresses, it leads to muscle weakness, loss of movement, and eventually, paralysis. While cognitive functions often remain intact, the physical toll can be immense.
There is currently no cure, and the disease varies from person to person in terms of progression and severity.
For many, an ALS diagnosis can feel like a slow unraveling of everyday abilities, but it doesn’t mean an immediate end to one’s lifestyle or purpose.
With early intervention, supportive therapies, and adaptive tools, some individuals continue to lead active lives - as Dane’s commitment to work demonstrates.
The "Grey's Anatomy" actor's diagnosis also brings back memories of South African rugby legend Joost van der Westhuizen, who was diagnosed with a form of MND in 2011. Van der Westhuizen, once a fierce Springbok scrum-half, became a national symbol of courage after going public with his diagnosis.
Despite his rapidly declining physical condition, he continued to raise awareness through his J9 Foundation, which supports others living with MND in South Africa. He passed away in 2017 at the age of 45, but his legacy in both sports and ALS advocacy lives on.
Like Van der Westhuizen, Dane’s openness about his health has already sparked public interest in understanding the realities of ALS.
For many people living with the condition, visibility and awareness can be empowering. It opens the door for more support, more research, and hopefully, one day, a cure.
In the meantime, Dane is choosing to focus on what matters most which include his family, creativity, and living with grace.
He also asked for privacy as he and his loved ones adjusted to the diagnosis.