Eric Dane, Rebecca Gayheart, and family attend the Guy Oseary's event in Malibu on July 4, 2013, in Malibu, California | Source: Getty Images
When He First Spoke About ALS
On April 10, 2025, Dane publicly shared his diagnosis for the first time. "I have been diagnosed with ALS," he told People exclusively. "I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter."
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Eric Dane attends the HBO Max FYC event for "Euphoria" in Los Angeles on April 20, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
According to the Mayo Clinic, the disease causes loss of muscle control as motor neurons gradually deteriorate and die. There is no cure, and symptoms typically worsen over time.
The condition often begins with muscle weakness in the hands, arms, feet, or legs and may also cause slurred speech or difficulty swallowing. As it advances, ALS affects the muscles needed to move, speak, eat, and breathe.
