"Grey’s Anatomy Star Eric Dane Spotted in Rare LA Outing Following Devastating Diagnosis"

This title maintains the key details—Dane’s association with Grey’s Anatomy, the infrequency of his public appearance, the location (LA), and the context of a serious health update—while rephrasing concisely and neutrally.

Eric Dane Shares ALS Diagnosis Amid Health Struggles
(Include image: Eric Dane looking frail in Los Angeles, April 2025)

Eric Dane, 52, best known for his role as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, has revealed he’s battling ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Recent photos obtained by DailyMail.com show the actor appearing gaunt and frail during a visit with a friend in Los Angeles, a stark contrast to his once-chiseled “McSteamy” persona. Dressed in loose-fitting clothing, Dane was seen leaning on a pal for support, highlighting the toll of the progressive disease.

In a statement to People, Dane confirmed the diagnosis: “I have been diagnosed with ALS. I’m grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” Despite the challenges, he plans to continue working, including returning to HBO’s Euphoria, where he plays Cal Jacobs, father to Jacob Elordi’s character.

Understanding ALS
(Include image: ALS awareness graphic explaining symptoms)
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a fatal neurodegenerative condition affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Early symptoms include muscle weakness, twitching, and weight loss. Over time, patients lose mobility, speech, and eventually the ability to breathe. Most survive just 3–5 years post-diagnosis. Dane appears to be in the early stages, still able to move independently despite significant weight loss.

Family Support Amid Crisis
(Include image: Dane with wife Rebecca Gayheart at 2017 event)
Dane’s wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, 53, recently dismissed their 2018 divorce filing, telling E! News they’re “the best of friends” focused on co-parenting daughters Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13. The couple, married since 2004, had separated for seven years but reunited as Dane’s health declined. “We figured out the formula to staying a family,” Gayheart said, emphasizing their commitment to their children.

Career Highlights & Challenges
(Include image: Dane’s iconic Grey’s Anatomy shower scene)
Dane rose to fame in 2006 as the charismatic plastic surgeon “McSteamy,” becoming a fan favorite alongside Patrick Dempsey’s “McDreamy.” He left the show in 2012 but later starred in TNT’s The Last Ship (2014–2018) and HBO’s Euphoria. His career faced turbulence, including a 2011 rehab stint for painkiller addiction and a leaked 2009 scandal involving a private video.

(Include image: Dane on Euphoria set as Cal Jacobs)
Recently, Dane filmed Kabul, a series about the 2021 U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Gayheart, known for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, has prioritized family support since his diagnosis.

A Public Battle
(Include image: Dane at May 2024 Bad Boys premiere, showing weight loss)
Photos from early 2025 first hinted at Dane’s declining health, with a noticeably thinner appearance during a January dinner date. By April, he’d lost significant weight, just days after announcing his diagnosis. Despite the hurdles, Dane remains determined to work, stating, “I feel fortunate to continue doing what I love.”

As the Grey’s Anatomy alum faces this incurable disease, fans and loved ones rally behind him, celebrating his resilience and legacy in entertainment.

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