Actor Eric Dane opened up about the emotional reality of having ALS in his first TV interview since announcing he had the condition.
The 52-year-old star, who has appeared on Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, spoke to Diane Sawyer in an upcoming Good Morning America segment.
A teaser clip aired on Thursday, June 12, offering a glimpse into Dane’s candid conversation. Holding hands with Sawyer, Dane admitted, “I wake up every day and I’m immediately reminded that this is happening. It’s not a dream.” The clip ends with Dane in tears, showing the emotional depth of the full interview.
Despite the seriousness of his condition, Dane is not giving up. “I don’t think this is the end of my story. I don’t feel like this is the end of me,” he affirmed, showing strength and resilience in the face of a life-changing condition.
According to People, Dane initially disclosed his ALS diagnosis in April during an exclusive with PEOPLE magazine. “I have been diagnosed with ALS,” he noted then. “I am thankful to have my wonderful family with me as we go through this next stage.”
Dane is married to actress Rebecca Gayheart. They have two daughters, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13. He has requested that his family be given privacy during this difficult period.
WHAT IS ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rare neurodegenerative disease that gradually paralyzes muscles. Early symptoms can be muscle spasms, weakness in the limbs, and speech impairment. With time, the patient loses the muscle power to move, speak, and finally breathe.
There is no cure, but after being diagnosed, three to five years is a normal life expectancy, although some patients live considerably longer.
Dane’s visit to Good Morning America guarantees to bring some light on his personal experience, as well as the widespread effect of ALS.