Eric Dane breaks down in tears as he opens up about ALS battle, vows it won't be the 'end of my story'
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Eric Dane, who revealed his ALS diagnosis in April, is now speaking out publicly for the first time about his health. The 'Euphoria' star shared his emotional journey in a sit-down interview hosted by Diane Sawyer, set to air on 'Good Morning America' on Monday, June 16.
In a preview of the upcoming segment, Dane offers a candid glimpse into his daily reality living with ALS. “I wake up every day and I’m immediately reminded that this is happening... It’s not a dream,” he said.
Eric Dane doesn't think ALS is the 'end of his story'
The 30-second preview captures a heartfelt moment between Eric Dane and Diane Sawyer as they hold hands while discussing his life after the diagnosis. It concludes with the actor breaking down in tears, offering a glimpse into the deeply emotional nature of the conversation.
In a teaser clip of the upcoming interview, which was posted on Facebook, Dane further shared, “I don’t think this is the end of my story. I don’t feel like this is the end of me,” expressing hope for the future.
As per the preview, this is Dane's first TV interview since he received his ALS diagnosis.
Eric Dane’s career journey and life beyond the diagnosis
The 52-year-old actor first shared his diagnosis back in April, stating, “I have been diagnosed with ALS.”
Speaking to People, Dane said he was "grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter."
"I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of ‘Euphoria’ next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time," he added.
Dane currently portrays Cal Jacobs, the patriarch of the Jacobs family, on HBO’s hit teen drama 'Euphoria'.
Prior to this role, he was widely recognized for his portrayal of Dr Mark Sloan on 'Grey’s Anatomy', a part he played from 2006 to 2012, 2021.
His other notable work includes playing Jason Dean in the fantasy series 'Charmed', Captain Tom Chandler in the action drama 'The Last Ship', and roles in films such as 'Marley & Me', 'Valentine’s Day', and 'Burlesque'.
Dane is married to actress Rebecca Gayheart, with whom he shares two children, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13. Gayheart offered a touching reflection on what matters in life as her husband revealed he has been diagnosed with ALS.
The actress took to her Instagram Stories on April 12 to share a meaningful quote often attributed to Rose Kennedy. The message read, “Life isn’t a matter of milestones, but of moments.”
Renowned personalities with ALS
Over the years, several high-profile individuals have helped shine a spotlight on ALS by publicly sharing their diagnoses and experiences.
Baseball icon Lou Gehrig was diagnosed in 1939, bringing national attention to the rare condition that would later bear his name — “Lou Gehrig’s disease.” His courage and visibility marked one of the earliest and most impactful public recognitions of ALS.
Renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking defied the odds after being diagnosed at age 21, living with ALS for more than 50 years. Despite the disease’s progression, he continued to make major contributions to science and cosmology, becoming a symbol of resilience and intellect.
In 2022, Grammy-winning singer Roberta Flack revealed her ALS diagnosis, underscoring the disease’s effects on speech and vocal function. Her announcement highlighted the challenges artists face when their creative tools are compromised by illness.
Other notable names include former NFL player and broadcaster Tim Green, who has become a vocal advocate for ALS research, and Steve Gleason, another former NFL player whose activism and public journey with ALS have inspired thousands and led to increased funding and awareness.
