In a courageous move, Eric Dane has recently shared his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Now navigating a new chapter in his life, the 52-year-old actor is grateful to have the support of his loving family. Despite this life-altering diagnosis, Dane gave fans good news about his health. Specifically, he stated that his health has not impacted his plans to return for “Euphoria” Season 3, joining the HBO series’ production team in the coming days. That said, will his determination to continue working help him cope with the challenges of this progressive degenerative disease?
Eric Dane Undeterred by ALS Diagnosis
For those unaware of the fatal condition, ALS targets and breaks down the nerves in the body, weakening muscles and causing eventual paralysis. As a whole, these symptoms impact patients’ ability to breathe, speak, and move. To make matters worse, this debilitating disease doesn’t have any known cure. This news has sent shockwaves throughout the Hollywood industry, but Dane remains hopeful, respectfully asking for privacy for himself and his family during this difficult time.
Eric Dane portrays Cal Jacobs, the strict and complex father of Nate Jacobs, played by Jacob Elordi, who has been a standout role in the popular HBO series Euphoria. Moreover, production for the highly anticipated third season continues to ramp up with Dane reprising his role on April 14. Given that new episodes began filming in January, this development isn’t surprising as several cast members, including Elordi, Zendaya, and Sydney Sweeney, are confirmed to return.
Euphoria Season 3 On the Way
Returning for Euphoria Season 3, Eric Dane has hinted at a transformative journey for his character, Cal Jacobs. The actor suggested that Cal’s story will take a more personal turn, with his character arc centering around redemption. Moreover, Cal’s character is too complex for Dane to pass judgment, therefore, he opts to explore the nuances of his role instead. Following this approach, he can tap into the character’s depth, setting the stage for a compelling narrative arc in the upcoming season.
Although Euphoria introduced Eric Dane to a broader audience, the actor has already built an impressive body of work. Throughout his career, Dane showcased his versatility as an actor with his iconic role as the charismatic doctor, Dr. Mark Sloan, for six seasons on Grey’s Anatomy, which remains a fan favorite. Similarly, he demonstrated his ability to carry a show with his leading role in TNT’s naval series The Last Ship. Additionally, films like Bad Boys: Ride or Die and Burlesque revealed that the actor can play a great villain. These roles have not only proved his worth as a talented and dynamic actor but also shown that he’s capable of taking on various roles.
Spreading Awareness for Life-Threatening Disease
Despite this heartbreaking news, Eric Dane has expressed gratitude for his loving family, including his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, with whom he shares two teenage children. Furthermore, The Hollywood Reporter has reached out to the actor’s team for further comment on his recent ALS diagnosis. Besides Dane, other accomplished individuals who have also been diagnosed with ALS include:
- Stephen Hawking – the renowned physicist and cosmologist
- Lou Gehrig – the legendary baseball player whose name is often associated with the disease
- Roberta Flack – the Grammy-winning singer and songwriter
- Dennis Day – an American actor and comedian
- Steve Gleason – a former NFL player and advocate for ALS awareness
- Aaron Lazar – an actor and singer who has been open about his diagnosis
Notably, each individual has made significant contributions to their respective fields, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide. With their combined experiences with ALS, it bring importance to raising awareness and supporting research for this debilitating disease in hopes that a cure will one day be found. Until then, however, Euphoria and Grey’s Anatomy fans, as well as Hollywood, must show Eric Dane support as he isn’t letting this devastating disease stop him from performing.
