Eric Dane Drops Out of Awards Gala ‘Due to the Physical Realities of ALS’

“Grey’s Anatomy” star Eric Dane dropped out of an awards gala on Saturday due to complications with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

According to Entertainment Weekly, Dane was set to receive the Advocate of the Year Award at the ALS Network’s Champions for Cures and Care gala. Hours before the event began, organizers said that Dane could not attend “due to the physical realities of ALS.”

“We remain deeply grateful for his courage, advocacy and continued commitment to the ALS community,” an ALSN rep told EW in a statement. “We honor him fully this evening with our profound respect and support.”

Grammy-nominated Broadway star Aaron Lazar accepted the award in Dane’s place. While not appearing in person, Dane sent in a pre-recorded message thanking the ALS Network for his honor.

“This award is not just for me, it’s for my beautiful loved ones who are fighting with me, and it’s for every person who has faced ALS with courage,” Dane said in the video. “For every caregiver who gives their heart and energy day after day and for every advocate who raises their voice to push for progress.”

Dane first revealed his ALS diagnosis to People in April of 2025. He told the outlet, “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of ‘Euphoria’ next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”

ALS is a fatal, degenerative condition that breaks down the nerves in the body. It weakens the muscles and eventually causes paralysis, impacting patients’ ability to breathe, speak and move. There is no known cure.