Eric Dane revealed first ALS symptom he noticed that led to diagnosis before death aged 53

In a statement shared with People, his family described his fight with ALS as courageous. They said Dane became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to help others facing the same diagnosis.

Dane publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis in April 2025, asking for privacy while expressing gratitude for his family’s support. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurological condition that affects muscle control over time.

The actor missed the Emmy Awards during the show’s anniversary year due to complications related to the illness. He later shared that a fall connected to ALS required hospital treatment, leaving him disappointed to miss a reunion with longtime colleagues.