Eric Dane Spoke About Finding a ALS Cure Shortly Before His Death at 53: ‘I’m Trying to Save My Life’

Eric Dane has died at age 53, less than a year after going public with his ALS diagnosis. 

His family announced the news on February 19. 

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” read the statement shared with People. “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.”

Eric Dane revealed ALS diagnosis in April 2025

The Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria actor revealed in April 2025 that he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that has no cure. Most people die two to five years after their diagnosis. As the condition progresses, patients lose the ability to speak, move, eat, and breathe, according to the Mayo Clinic.

In the months after sharing that he had ALS, Dane worked to raise awareness of the disease. In November 2025, he appeared on NBC’s Brilliant Minds as a firefighter with ALS. 

“It was hard, and there were moments when it was very difficult for me getting the lines out,” he said during a virtual panel for I Am ALS on Giving Tuesday (via YouTube).

“Nobody survives this. We both know that. I’ve never played a character who’s going through something I’m dealing with in real time, in real life as well,” he continued, adding that he wanted “to make sure that people are aware of what ALS is and what it’s about and more importantly what we can do to combat it.”

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ star fought for more funding for ALS research

At the time, Dane was hopeful that he could continue acting. But he acknowledged there were limitations as to what he could to. 

“I’m willing to do just about anything, I’ll take on any role, but I think from here on out it’s going to have to be ALS-centric,” he said. 

A few months later, Dane was recognized in TIME’s list of the 100 most influential people in health in 2026 for his work to bring awareness to ALS and to support research for a cure. His efforts included joining the board of directors for Target ALS. The actor had also launched a campaign aiming to secure $1 billion federal funding for ALS research.

“I’m trying to save my life,” Dane said. “[I]f my actions can move the needle forward for myself and countless others, I’m satisfied.”

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