Patrick Dempsey is opening up about his former Grey’s Anatomy co-star Eric Dane’s courageous battle with ALS.
The devastating diagnosis came to light in April 2025, when Eric revealed he’s fighting the progressive neurodegenerative disease.
Now, Patrick is sharing an emotional update on how his friend is coping with the rapid progression of this unforgiving condition.
The news isn’t easy to hear, but Eric’s strength throughout this journey is nothing short of remarkable.
The Disease Has Progressed Rapidly
While promoting his new FOX series Memory of a Killer, Patrick revealed he recently reached out to Eric about a potential guest appearance on the show. Unfortunately, ALS had other plans.
I spoke to him a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, the progression of his disease made it virtually impossible.
Despite being unable to join Patrick’s project, Eric hasn’t stopped working entirely. Patrick noted that Eric was in Toronto filming another medical drama called Brilliant Minds, showing incredible determination to continue his craft.
The 60-year-old actor acknowledged the harsh reality of watching his friend battle this condition.
It’s very hard for him, but I do try to stay in touch and see how he’s doing.
Patrick shared that he and Eric have maintained their connection through text messages, keeping their friendship alive during this difficult time.
What Makes ALS So Devastating
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that attacks nerve cells in both the brain and spinal cord. These motor neurons control voluntary muscle movement, from walking and talking to breathing and swallowing.
As the disease progresses, these neurons deteriorate and die, causing muscles to weaken and eventually stop functioning. The speed at which ALS progresses varies dramatically between patients, though Patrick’s comments suggest Eric’s case has advanced quickly.
Most people with ALS experience:
- Muscle weakness that begins in hands, feet, or limbs
- Difficulty speaking and swallowing as the disease advances
- Progressive paralysis affecting most voluntary muscle control
- Respiratory complications as breathing muscles weaken
What makes ALS particularly cruel is that it typically leaves cognitive function intact, meaning patients remain fully aware as their bodies fail them.
A Friendship Built on Mutual Respect
Patrick didn’t hold back his admiration for Eric, praising both his character and his response to this life-altering diagnosis.
He’s been incredibly courageous in the face of this horrible disease. He’s such a wonderful human being. He has such a great sense of humor, and he’s so intelligent. I’ve always enjoyed working and being around Eric.
The two actors worked together on Grey’s Anatomy, where Patrick played the iconic Dr. Derek “McDreamy” Shepherd and Eric portrayed Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan. Their on-screen chemistry translated into a genuine off-screen friendship that has endured beyond their time on the medical drama.
The Impact on Family
Patrick acknowledged the broader toll this diagnosis has taken, particularly on Eric’s ex-wife Rebecca Gayheart and their two teenage daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14.
It’s heartbreaking. It really is. For him and for his family. You feel for them when you see this terrible disease and how quickly it attacks the body.
Watching a parent battle ALS presents unimaginable challenges for any family, especially children navigating their teenage years. The disease doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed—it ripples through every relationship and family dynamic.
Using His Platform for Good
Despite facing one of life’s most difficult battles, Eric has chosen to leverage his celebrity status to raise awareness about ALS and shine light on this devastating condition.
Patrick praised this decision, noting Eric’s commitment to making something positive from his painful experience.
But he’s bringing a lot of light to that, and he’s using his platform in a positive way.
When public figures share their health struggles, they often help destigmatize diseases and encourage research funding. Eric’s openness about his diagnosis may inspire others facing similar battles and draw attention to the urgent need for ALS treatments and a cure.
The Bigger Picture
ALS remains a disease without a cure, though research continues. Approximately 5,000 people are diagnosed with ALS each year in the United States, with most patients surviving two to five years after diagnosis.
Treatment focuses primarily on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression when possible, and maintaining quality of life. Medications like riluzole and edaravone have shown modest benefits in some patients, though they cannot reverse damage already done.
Eric’s willingness to continue working despite his diagnosis demonstrates remarkable resilience. Many ALS patients find purpose in maintaining routines and pursuing passions for as long as physically possible.
Patrick’s public support for his friend highlights the importance of maintaining connections and offering emotional support to those battling serious illness. Sometimes simply staying in touch through texts or calls can make an enormous difference to someone facing health challenges.
As Eric continues his fight against ALS, friends like Patrick are ensuring he knows he’s not alone in this battle.