Eric Dane quits the Awards Gala due to ‘Physical Realities of ALS’

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

According to Entertainment weeklyDane 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 started, organizers said 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 representative told EW in a statement. “We fully honor him tonight with our deep respect and support.”

Grammy-nominated Broadway star Aaron Lazar accepted the award in Dane’s place. Although he did not appear in person, Dane sent a pre-recorded message thanking the ALS Network for honoring him.

“This award isn’t just for me, it’s for my beautiful loved ones who fight with me, and it’s for everyone who has courageously faced ALS,” Dane said in the video. “For every healthcare provider who gives their heart and energy day after day and for every advocate who raises their voice to make progress.”

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

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