Patrick Dempsey on Eric Dane’s ALS Battle

Patrick Dempsey Shares Heartfelt Update on Eric Dane

By Sarah Jenkins • January 29, 2026

Patrick Dempsey says he’s been in touch with Eric Dane as the Grey’s Anatomy alum battles ALS, praising his courage and advocacy.

Patrick Dempsey says he’s been texting with former Grey’s Anatomy costar Eric Dane amid his ALS diagnosis.
Dane’s disease progression made a guest role on Dempsey’s new show impossible, but he was spotted working in Toronto.
Dempsey praised Dane’s courage and his advocacy for ALS awareness and research.
Dane has continued acting while using his platform to raise awareness about the disease.

Patrick Dempsey updates fans on Eric Dane

Patrick Dempsey told Parade he spoke with Eric Dane “a few weeks ago” and has been texting with the actor as Dane navigates his ALS diagnosis. Dempsey confirmed he tried to recruit Dane for a guest spot on his new series, Memory of a Killer, but “the progression of his disease made it virtually impossible.”

Dane continuing to work despite physical limits

Dempsey noted he was glad to see Dane in Toronto working on another medical drama, reportedly Brilliant Minds. He described Dane as “incredibly courageous” and praised his humor and intelligence. “It’s very hard for him, but I do try to stay in touch and see how he’s doing,” Dempsey added.

Family and advocacy

Dempsey also acknowledged the impact of ALS on Dane’s family, including his ex Rebecca Gayheart and their daughters Billie and Georgia. He called the diagnosis “heartbreaking” and said he admires how Dane is using his platform to shine a light on the disease.

How Eric Dane has spoken about his diagnosis

Eric Dane revealed an ALS diagnosis in April 2025 and has been open about his journey since. He told audiences on a virtual I AM ALS panel that he no longer feels his life is just about him and that raising awareness is a priority. Dane has continued to act, including work on the final season of Euphoria and other projects.

First symptoms and public moments

Dane told Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America that his first symptom was weakness in his right hand. After months of appointments, he received the diagnosis. He’s spoken publicly about the urgency of research and policy changes; in September he met with representatives from I AM ALS and spoke with Rep. Eric Swalwell about federal funding and research. (See the congressman’s TikTok post here: https://www.tiktok.com/@swalwelleric/video/7555675653526310199.)

Support from colleagues and fans

Colleagues like Dempsey have offered praise and support as Dane adapts to new physical realities. Dane recently missed an awards event due to the effects of ALS, underscoring how quickly the disease can progress. Still, he has emphasized that acting keeps him “sharp” and that his advocacy work is a driving force.

What’s next

Dane has made clear he intends to keep working when possible and to use his public profile to campaign for more research and better care for people living with ALS. Dempsey’s update is a reminder of the actor’s ongoing struggle and the outpouring of support from the entertainment community.

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