What disease is Eric Dane, the Euphoria star, battling?

Eric Dane, the Euphoria star, is battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a debilitating neurodegenerative condition.

How has Eric Dane's openness about his ALS diagnosis impacted the entertainment industry?

Eric Dane's openness about his ALS diagnosis has challenged Hollywood's unspoken rule of "disappearing when you can't perform at full speed," sparking a growing movement demanding the industry evolve beyond its obsession with physical perfection.

What support has Eric Dane received from the production crews of his shows?

Behind the scenes, production crews have adapted sets and schedules to accommodate Eric Dane's needs as his ALS progresses, a quiet act of compassion that also exposes the lack of formal systems to protect actors with chronic illnesses.

Home / Health / Hollywood Icon's Brave Battle with ALS Sparks Calls for Industry Change

Hollywood Icon's Brave Battle with ALS Sparks Calls for Industry Change

18 Oct

•

Summary

Actor Eric Dane revealed ALS diagnosis in April 2025
Dane continues working, production crews adapt to accommodate his needs
Dane's openness challenges Hollywood's "disappear when you can't perform" narrative

Hollywood Icon's Brave Battle with ALS Sparks Calls for Industry Change

In April 2025, the shocking news of Euphoria star Eric Dane's amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis sent shockwaves through Hollywood. The 52-year-old actor, best known for his roles as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey's Anatomy and Cal Jacobs in Euphoria, had been quietly battling one of the most unforgiving diseases known to medicine.

Dane's revelation not only broke hearts but also shattered the industry's silence on how it treats its icons once illness sets in. Rather than retreat, Dane has continued to work, returning for Euphoria's upcoming third season and starring in Amazon Prime's thriller Countdown, which premiered in June 2025. Behind the scenes, production crews have adapted sets and schedules to accommodate his needs, a quiet act of compassion that also exposes the lack of formal systems to protect actors with chronic illnesses.