Eric Dane, known for his roles as Dr. Mark Sloan in Grey’s Anatomy and Cal Jacobs in HBO‘s Euphoria, has revealed he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a rare and progressive neurological disease.
“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” Dane, 52, said in an exclusive interview with People. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control and eventually the ability to speak, eat, and breathe independently.
What Is ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a terminal neurodegenerative disorder that causes the progressive paralysis of muscles due to the deterioration of motor neurons. The disease often begins with symptoms such as muscle twitching, weakness in the limbs, or slurred speech. As it progresses, patients lose the ability to walk, speak, swallow, and eventually breathe without assistance.
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There is no cure. According to the Mayo Clinic, half of those diagnosed die within 18 months, though some may live for years or even decades. Notable individuals who have lived with ALS include physicist Stephen Hawking, who lived for decades after diagnosis, and singer Roberta Flack. On average, people with motor neuron disease die 27 months after diagnosis, though outcomes vary widely, with some people living decades afterward.
Will Eric Dane Return to ‘Euphoria’?
The actor confirmed he will continue in the role for the upcoming third season. “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week,” Dane told People. “I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.” Filming for the season is underway and Dane is expected to be back on set imminently.
Who Does Eric Dane Play in ‘Euphoria’?
In Euphoria, Dane plays Cal Jacobs, the complex and deeply conflicted father of Nate Jacobs (Jacob Elordi), in the HBO drama and one of the show’s most complicated characters, known for his volatile relationship with his son and a hidden past that fuels much of the series’ dramatic tension. His portrayal has been a critical component of the show’s examination of identity, repression and trauma across generations.
When Does ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Release?
Production on the third season began in February 2025 following multiple delays due to the Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strikes, as well as rewrites and scheduling issues. HBO had initially targeted a 2025 release, but the show is now expected to premiere in 2026.
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The season will feature a time jump of approximately five years, moving the story beyond high school and into the adult lives of the characters. Zendaya, who plays Rue Bennett, has said she hopes to explore Rue’s sobriety journey post-high school, a storyline based in part on creator Sam Levinson’s personal experiences.
Most of the main cast is returning, including Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Maude Apatow, Sydney Sweeney, Alexa Demie and Jacob Elordi. However, Storm Reid, who played Rue’s younger sister Gia, confirmed she will not return for Season 3, and Barbie Ferreira exited the series in 2022. The return of Dominic Fike, who played Elliot, was confirmed earlier this year.