Eric Dane was set to reunite with his Grey’s Anatomy cast at the 2025 Emmys but missed the event due to complications from his ALS diagnosis, which had recently landed him in the hospital.
Dane, known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan (“McSteamy”), revealed in April 2025 that he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and incurable neurological disease. Despite his diagnosis, he expressed gratitude for his family’s support and requested privacy.
ALS, which leads to the loss of muscle control and eventually impairs movement, speech, and breathing, has no cure. It has claimed the lives of famous figures like Lou Gehrig and Stephen Hawking.
Just a month after his diagnosis, Dane spoke to Diane Sawyer about how quickly the disease was affecting his mobility, particularly in his right hand. He remains determined to keep moving forward, saying he would “ride this ‘till the wheels fall off.”
However, the disease’s toll became evident when ALS caused him to lose balance and fall just before the Emmys, requiring stitches. He expressed regret at missing the opportunity to reunite with Grey’s Anatomy peers and present at the ceremony.
Despite the setbacks, Dane remains focused on raising awareness for neurodegenerative diseases, hoping his story will help others. As he put it, “If I’m going out, I’m gonna go out helping somebody.”