Tributes Pour in for Actor Eric Dane as His Strong Advocacy for ALS Is Heralded as His Most Impactful Role

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Eric Dane, renowned for his performances in “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria,” succumbed to ALS, a mere 10 months after bravely revealing his diagnosis to the public.

Despite the challenges posed by ALS, Dane remained active in his career, continuing to work after sharing his diagnosis with the world.

Throughout his journey, Dane not only highlighted his personal experience with the disease but also tirelessly advocated for ALS awareness.

In recognition of his steadfast commitment to finding a cure, the ALS Network recently honored Dane with its highest advocacy award.

Although ALS prevented him from attending the ceremony in person, Dane was able to watch a heartfelt tribute video, which included a message from Ellen Pompeo, his co-star from “Grey’s Anatomy.”

We caught up with the ALS Network’s president to discuss the broader impact of Dane’s advocacy efforts.

“He became the face to do that. In this moment, we together are carrying forward. We are carrying forward his legacy,” Dr. Sheri Strahl said.

Months before his death, Dane recorded what would become his final interview with Netflix as part of their series “Famous Last Words.”

At the end of the interview, he was left alone with the camera and recorded a deeply personal message for his two teenage daughters.

“So, you have to live now. The present is all you have. Treasure it. Cherish every moment. The two of you are different people, but you’re both strong and resilient. You inherited resilience from me. That’s my superpower. I get up again and again and again,” he said.

Tributes for Dane pour in

In a UK radio interview, Patrick Dempsey became emotional as he reflected on the loss of his “Grey’s Anatomy” co-star.

He said Dane always made him laugh, was very professional and really smart.

“We have him in all his glory on ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ so when you watch it, he’s still very much alive,” Dempsey said.

“Grey’s Anatomy” creator Shonda Rhimes shared a tribute to Dane on Instagram Friday.

“He was truly a gifted actor whose portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan left an indelible mark on the series and on audiences around the world,” she wrote.

How you can help

The ALS Association says it has seen a 200% increase in donations since the news of Dane’s passing.

If you’d like to learn more about the disease or donate, you can visit ALS.org.