Eric Dane Withdraws from ALS Event Just Hours Before Scheduled Appearance Due to Health Concerns

Eric Dane in September 2025.
Credit :

Marvin Joseph/The Washington Post via Getty

NEED TO KNOW

• Eric Dane dropped out of an ALS event at the last minute on Saturday, Jan. 24
• The actor canceled his appearance hours before, “due to the physical realities of ALS” and not being “well enough to attend,” organizers said
• Dane was scheduled to attend the ALS Network’s Champions for Cures and Care Gala, where he was set to be recognized as Advocate of the Year

Actor Eric Dane withdrew from an ALS event just hours before it commenced on Saturday, January 24. The 53-year-old was slated to be the guest of honor at the ALS Network’s Champions for Cures and Care Gala, where he was to be celebrated as Advocate of the Year.

Shortly before the event, organizers announced that Dane’s cancellation was due to “the physical realities of ALS” and stated he was not “well enough to attend.”

In a statement, the ALS Network expressed their gratitude for Dane’s courage and advocacy within the ALS community. “We honor him fully this evening with our profound respect and support,” they said, noting that fellow actor Aaron Lazar, who has also been diagnosed with ALS, would accept the award on Dane’s behalf.

Representatives for Dane and the ALS Network did not provide immediate comments on the situation on Sunday, January 25.

Aaron Lazar at the Champions For Cures and Care Gala on Jan. 24.

Paul Archuleta/Getty

Dane disclosed his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) exclusively to the public in April of last year. He urged for privacy during this challenging time. “I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time,” he stated.

During a June interview with Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America, Dane remarked on the profound impact of the diagnosis. “I wake up every day, and I’m immediately reminded that this is happening. It’s not a dream.”

Dane is the father of two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14, whom he shares with ex-wife Rebecca Gayheart. The couple married in 2004 but filed for divorce in 2018 before later reconciling.

In September, Gayheart shared with PEOPLE that their family was navigating Dane’s diagnosis “day by day.” She explained, “We have some professional therapists who are helping us, and we’re just trying to have some hope and do it with dignity, grace, and love.”

Eric Dane (center) with his two daughters in 2024.

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Although he was unable to attend the gala, Dane still made an appearance through a pre-recorded message, where he accepted the Advocate of the Year award.

“This award is not just for me, it’s for my beautiful family and loved ones who are fighting,” Dane expressed. He dedicated the honor to “every person who has faced ALS with courage, for every caregiver who gives their heart — day after day — and for every advocate who is a voice for progress.” He highlighted the impact of the ALS Network in improving the lives of those living with ALS.

In closing, he expressed gratitude, stating, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this. With help from the ALS Network, we will finally kick the s— out of ALS.”

His message was accompanied by a video montage showcasing his notable roles and featuring tributes from fellow actors, including Ellen Pompeo (Grey’s Anatomy) and Jacob Elordi (Euphoria).