HEALTH Women's Health February 20, 2026 0 Comments

Eric Dane’s Shocking ALS Battle: The Hidden Symptoms You Didn’t See Coming

Ever wonder how someone known for playing the irresistibly charming Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy faced one of life’s toughest battles away from the bright lights? Eric Dane’s journey through Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease, was as courageous and relentless as any role he took on screen. The news of his passing at just 53 has left a deep ache in the hearts of fans worldwide, and it’s a stark reminder of how unpredictable life can be. But beyond the pain, Eric’s story reveals a legacy of fierce advocacy, deep family love, and an unyielding spirit that refused to be defined by his diagnosis. Join me as we delve into the raw reality of Eric’s fight against ALS—the early warning signs, the challenges he faced head-on, and the powerful influence he’s left behind. Because sometimes, the real strength comes not from the roles we play, but from the battles we bravely endure. LEARN MORE

Actor Eric Dane, best known for playing Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan in Grey’s Anatomy, passed away on Thursday, February 19, from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) disease—also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He was 53. This news comes after Dane originally announced his diagnosis back in April 2025 and is devastating entertainment fans worldwide.

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” reads a statement shared with People magazine. “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world. Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”

Here we take a look at the actor’s ALS journey, the early warning signs he had and his legacy of strength.

Eric Dane’s ALS symptoms were aggressive

Just three months after announcing his diagnosis in April 2025 Dane sat down with Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America to share a heartbreaking update on his struggle.

“I started experiencing some weakness in my right hand, and I didn’t really think anything of it at the time,” Dane said in June 2025. “I thought maybe I’d been texting too much and my hand was fatigued. But a few weeks later, I noticed that it had gotten a little worse, so I went and saw a hand specialist who sent me to another hand specialist. I went and saw a neurologist, and the neurologist sent me to another neurologist and said, ‘This is way above my pay grade.’”

Dane told Sawyer, “I have one functioning arm. My dominant side. My left side is functioning, my right side has completely stopped working. It’s [my left side] going. I feel like maybe a couple more months, and I won’t have my left hand either. It’s sobering.”

The actor also shared that he is “worried about my legs.” Despite all of that, though, Dane told the host he was trying to remain positive, saying, “This isn’t the end of my story. I don’t feel like this is the end of me.”

Dane credited his daughter with saving his life

Dane has been married to Rebecca Gayheart since 2004, and while they’ve been separated for some time, they had reconciled before his death. They shared two daughters, ages 15 and 13, together, both of whom are aware of their father’s health condition.

“I’m angry because my father was taken from me when I was young,” Dane said on Good Morning America. “And now there’s a very good chance I’m going to be taken from my girls while they are very young. I mean, at the end of the day, all I want to do is spend time with my family and work a little bit, if I can.”

But Dane acknowledged the toll ALS is taking not just on himself, but on his family. The actor shared that he was swimming in the ocean recently and “realized I couldn’t swim [or] generate enough power to get myself back to the boat. I thought, ‘Oh, God.’ And then I realized in that moment I’m not safe in the water anymore.”

He then recalled how one of his daughters “dragged” him back to the boat, most likely saving his life. “I was breaking down in tears, so I made sure she got back in the water with her friend and continued on with the snorkeling with the guide,” Dane said. “But I was just heartbroken.”

A look at Eric Dane’s final days

Prior to his passing, Dane continued to act, telling People in April 2025 that he “feels fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week.” The show is expected to air later this year, with Dane returning as Cal Jacobs.

He also continued to keep in touch with his Grey’s Anatomy costars. This includes Ellen Pompeo, who had just recently praised the late actor’s willingness to discuss the disease.

“As soon as I heard about his diagnosis, I texted him, and I said, ‘I’m here if you want to speak,’” the actress said earlier this month. “And my phone rang 30 seconds later. [I told him] ‘Whatever you need, however I can help. I love you. I’m really proud of you. I love you so much and I am honored to get to speak about you today.’”

Understanding your ALS risk and symptoms

ALS is a neurodegenerative neurological disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. This can eventually lead to paralysis, weakened muscles, the inability to talk and potentially respiratory failure. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 30,000 Americans have the condition.

While a small portion (about 10 percent) of ALS cases are genetic, most have no known cause, the Mayo Clinic reports. It most commonly affects adults between age 60 and 85 and symptoms can include dropping items, fatigue, muscle cramps and twitching in the shoulders, arms and/or tongue.

There is currently no cure for ALS, and the average life expectancy after diagnosis is around two to five years.

How to get an ALS diagnosis

If you are experiencing ALS symptoms, the best thing to do is go to a neurologist who can perform a clinical evaluation and decide your best course of treatment.

Ready for more health advice? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for video podcasts, health tips and uplifting stories designed for women 40, 50, 60 and beyond.

This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.