Ellen Pompeo shares heartfelt talk with Eric Dane after ALS diagnosis
Ellen Pompeo Shares Heartfelt Conversation with Eric Dane After His ALS Diagnosis
Ellen Pompeo, the actress best known for her role as Dr. Meredith Grey on Grey’s Anatomy, recently opened up about a private conversation she had with her former co-star Eric Dane after he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The discussion took place shortly after Dane received his diagnosis, and it was shared during the ALS Network Champions for Cures & Care Gala, which was held on January 24.
“I texted him as soon as I heard about his diagnosis,” Pompeo said in a pre-taped message. “I told him, ‘I’m here if you want to speak.’ And my phone rang 30 seconds later.”
Pompeo described the emotional exchange with Dane, saying that she assured him she would do anything to help. “I told him, ‘Whatever you need, however I can help. I love you.’” She also expressed pride in being able to speak about him publicly. “I’m really proud of you. I love you so much and I am honored to get to speak about you today.”
The conversation brought back memories of Dane’s early days on Grey’s Anatomy. When he first joined the show in season 2 as Dr. Mark Sloan, Pompeo recalled the instant connection they had. “I remember when he came in as McSteamy and us having instant electric chemistry. I immediately just fell in love with him.”
Dane was originally scheduled to receive the Advocate of the Year award at the gala but had to cancel due to the physical challenges posed by ALS. A spokesperson for the ALS Network confirmed that he wasn’t well enough to attend.
The actor, who turned 53 this year, first revealed his ALS diagnosis in April 2025. Since then, he has been open about his journey with the disease. In September 2025, he was spotted in a wheelchair at an airport in Washington, DC, and shared a message with fans expressing hope. “Keep the faith, man,” he said in a stilted voice in footage obtained by the Daily Mail.
Despite the progression of his illness, Dane has not given up on his acting career. During a panel discussion hosted by I Am ALS and Brilliant Minds in December 2025, he spoke about his plans to take on roles that are centered around ALS. “I still have my brain, and I still have my speech,” he said. “But I’m willing to do just about anything.”
Dane, a father of two, remains determined to continue working in the entertainment industry. He has emphasized that while his physical abilities may be limited, his passion for acting and advocacy remains strong. His resilience and commitment to raising awareness about ALS have inspired many, both within and outside the entertainment world.
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