Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is more commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Grey’s Anatomy alum Eric Dane announced in April 2025 that he had been diagnosed with a nervous system disease.
“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” the actor shared in a statement. “I am grateful to have my beloved family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”
The actor was married to his wife. rebeca gayheartwith whom he shared two daughters.
“I feel lucky to be able to continue working and I really want to get back to [the] set of Euphoria next week,” he added. “I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”
Dane died at age 53 in February 2026.
Keep scrolling to learn everything you need to know about ALS:
What is ALS?
ALS is “a disease of the nervous system that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord,” according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms include a loss of muscle control, which worsens over time, turning it into a degenerative disease.
Why is ALS called Lou Gehrig’s disease?
Aside from its medical nickname, ALS has been nicknamed Lou GehrigThe disease is due to the late MLB player who retired in 1939 due to the progression of the disease. Because he was a public figure, Gehrig’s diagnosis and eventual death from ALS brought more awareness to the disease.
How is ALS contracted?
The exact cause of ALS is still unknown. However, it has been widely reported that the disease could have a genetic component. “A small number of cases are inherited,” published the Mayo Clinic.
Is there a cure for ALS?
There is currently no cure for ALS. Medications have been created to slow the progression of the disease, allowing people to control symptoms and live longer lives.
From Lou Gehrig in 1939 to Eric Dane in 2025, celebrities have publicly dealt with what is now known as ALS for decades. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a terminal neurodegenerative disorder. The disease causes the individual to gradually lose control of their muscles, gradually beginning with muscle stiffness or […]
According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common cause of death among people diagnosed with ALS is respiratory failure. While some people can live 10 years or more after diagnosis, more than half of people with ALS die within 14 to 18 months.
Which celebrities have spoken out about the ALS diagnosis?
Aside from Dane and Gehrig, other stars have publicly shared their battles with ALS. Stephen Hawking He was diagnosed with ALS at age 21 and lived to be 76, dying in March 2018.
Singer Roberta Flack she was diagnosed later in her life and in 2022 revealed that she also had ALS, which made it difficult for her to sing. He died last February of cardiac arrest at the age of 88.