Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr. Enter Mark Sloan Grey’s anatomy, has faced one of the most devastating neurological diagnoses: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
“I was diagnosed with ALS,” he said PEOPLE magazine, adding, “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”
“I kindly ask that you grant my family and me privacy during this time,” Dane continued.
Although the actor has largely kept his health issues private, his journey highlights the harsh reality of a condition that gradually robs individuals of their muscle function and independence, especially after his death on February 19, 2026.
ALS, often called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rare but fatal neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells responsible for voluntary muscle movements. The disease not only challenges the body, but also has a major impact on emotional resilience, relationships and identity.
The late actor admitted to Brad Falchuk during their confidential recordings Famous last words in November 2025, an interview that he understood would not be released until after his death.
Addressing his two daughters in his final interview, Dane said, “Billie and Georgia, these words are for you. I tried. I stumbled at times, but I tried. Overall we had a blast, didn’t we? I remember all the times we spent at the beach, the two of you, me and my mom — in Santa Monica, Hawaii, Mexico.”
In his lengthy interview, Dane gave heartfelt advice to his daughters, detailing how he also learned to live despite his health problems.
“Billie and Georgia, you are my heart. You are my everything. Good night. I love you. Those are my last words,” Eric Dane concluded.
What is ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive condition that targets motor neurons: the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle movement.
As these neurons degenerate and die, the brain loses the ability to initiate and control voluntary movements. Over time, the muscles weaken, shrink and eventually stop working.
ALS usually affects people between the ages of 40 and 70, although it can occur earlier. Most cases are sporadic (with no apparent genetic cause), while about 5-10% are hereditary.
