Grey’s Anatomy Stars Rally Behind Eric Dane After ALS Diagnosis
Grey’s Anatomy stars are rallying around Eric Dane after the 52-year-old revealed an ALS diagnosis — and the reason behind his Emmys no-show. Castmates and fans are flooding him with tributes and support.
Some news just lands like a gut punch. Eric Dane, 52, has gone public with an ALS diagnosis, and his Grey's Anatomy family is rallying hard around him. He also said the illness is why he skipped this year’s Emmy Awards (yep, the 2025 Emmys).
Where things stand
E! News reported that Dane sat out the Emmys because of the disease. And in the days since he shared the diagnosis, Entertainment Tonight caught up with several Grey's Anatomy cast members who offered support and some very personal perspective.
What his Grey's family is saying
- James Pickens Jr. reached out by text and got a warm response from Dane, who calls him 'Pick.' Pickens Jr. also shared why this hits so close to home: his longtime agent of over 35 years died from ALS almost two years ago, and he was with him when that diagnosis was first disclosed. So yeah, this one is personal.
- Kevin McKidd called Dane’s response remarkably brave and admitted he isn’t sure how he himself would handle something like this. He praised Dane for using the moment to shine a light on ALS and sent him all the best.
- Chandra Wilson pointed out something very Grey’s: even when a character leaves the hospital halls, they’re still part of the show’s DNA. She applauded Dane for the grace it takes to let people into a journey like this. Inside baseball, sure, but if you watch Grey’s, you know that sentiment tracks.
'Pick, I love you.'
— Eric Dane, in a message back to James Pickens Jr.
It’s been a wave of support from fans and colleagues alike, and it’s not slowing down. Dane is fighting a brutal disease, and his old TV family is making sure he doesn’t have to face it quietly or alone.