Eric Dane, 52, Shares New Video After Missing the 2025 Emmys
Eric Dane Speaks Out on ALS: A Message of Courage and Hope
On September 15, 2025, actor Eric Dane shared a heartfelt Instagram video in support of the I Am ALS organization, speaking candidly about his life with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Wearing a navy blue “I Am ALS” T-shirt, Dane urged viewers to contribute to the “Push for Progress” campaign, which seeks to accelerate ALS research, expand treatment options, and improve care for those living with the disease.
Fans quickly noticed changes in Dane’s speech and movement, including slurred speech and visible muscle twitches. Concerned messages poured in on social media, highlighting the challenges Dane is now facing. His appearance followed a surprising absence from the 2025 Emmy Awards, where he was scheduled to join Grey’s Anatomy co-star Jesse Williams for the show’s 20th-anniversary celebration, which had to be canceled due to his withdrawal.
ALS Diagnosis and Journey
Eric Dane publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis in April 2025. He shared that the disease had already begun affecting his mobility and speech, recounting early symptoms such as weakness in his right hand. In a moving interview with Diane Sawyer, he discussed both the physical and emotional toll of ALS on his life and family. One particularly poignant story involved his youngest daughter saving him during a boat trip when he was no longer able to swim.
Despite the challenges, Dane remains resolute. He emphasized that ALS will not define him, stating, “I don’t think this is the end of my story. I’m fighting as much as I can.” He also expressed deep gratitude for the support of his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their teenage daughters, calling them his greatest source of strength.
A Call to Action
Dane highlighted the urgency of the “Push for Progress” campaign, aiming to raise $1 billion in three years to fund ALS research and improve treatment access. His openness and advocacy have resonated worldwide, inspiring fans and people living with ALS alike.
Through his courage and transparency, Eric Dane has transformed from a beloved television actor into a powerful symbol of resilience, hope, and determination, demonstrating that even in the face of a devastating diagnosis, one can continue to live fully and fight for progress.