Eric Dane, known for his roles on shows such as Grey’s Anatomy and Charmed, recently revealed that he has been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. In a statement to People, Dane expressed his gratitude for having his loving family by his side as he navigates this new chapter in his life. Despite his diagnosis, Dane plans to continue working and is looking forward to filming for Euphoria season 3 next week, asking for privacy during this time.
In addition to his recent ALS diagnosis, Dane has been open about his struggles with sobriety and depression over the years. In 2011, while on Grey’s Anatomy, Dane voluntarily checked himself into a treatment facility to overcome his addiction to pain medication that he was prescribed for a sports injury. Reflecting on his journey to sobriety, Dane admitted to being "f***** up" for most of his time on Grey’s Anatomy, struggling with fame and body image issues. He revealed that he was sober for three or four years before joining the show in 2006, but eventually relapsed.
Depression has also been a challenge for Dane, as his representative confirmed in 2017 that production on The Last Ship had halted while he dealt with personal issues related to his mental health. Dane spoke openly about his struggles with depression in an interview on the Today show, describing the feeling of not wanting to get out of bed and seeking medical help to address his symptoms. He emphasized the importance of listening to one’s body and taking mental health issues seriously, even if the cause may not be immediately apparent.
During a podcast interview in 2014, Dane shared that his departure from Grey’s Anatomy in 2012 was not entirely voluntary, as he was struggling with personal issues. He acknowledged that his troubles with sobriety and the pressures of fame played a role in his exit from the show. Despite these challenges, Dane has been candid about his experiences and has taken steps to prioritize his health and well-being, seeking treatment when needed and advocating for mental health awareness.
Throughout his struggles with sobriety, depression, and now ALS, Dane has remained focused on his family and his work. With the support of his loved ones, he continues to navigate the ups and downs of life, facing each challenge with courage and resilience. His openness about his health issues serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help when needed and raising awareness about conditions such as ALS and depression. Despite the obstacles he has faced, Eric Dane remains determined to persevere and continue pursuing his passion for acting.
