Grey's Anatomy star Eric Dane diagnosed with ALS

The actor who played McSteamy in the medical drama 'Grey's Anatomy' in 2005 told 'People Magazine' about his recent diagnosis. The news comes as Dane prepares to start production on the HBO drama series 'Euphoria,' where he portrays the character Cal Jacobs. "I have been diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we go through this next chapter. I am happy that I can continue working and look forward to returning to the set of Euphoria next week. I ask for privacy for my family and me during this time," Dane told People Magazine. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a degenerative condition that slowly leads to the loss of the ability to walk, talk, swallow, and eventually breathe independently. There is no cure for ALS, and patients often die within five years of diagnosis; however, recent clinical studies provide hope for patients. Therapies are being developed in such studies that can extend the lives of ALS patients by several months. Dane began acting in the early 1990s and appeared in the American TV series 'Charmed' and 'Married... with Children,' where he became known for his looks and charm. The 52-year-old actor has been married to his fellow actress Rebecca Gayheart for over 10 years, with whom he has two teenage daughters, Billie Beatrice and Georgia Geraldine. In 2018, Gayheart filed for divorce from Dane; however, she has since requested to withdraw the divorce. Other celebrities diagnosed with the disease include Stephen Hawking, Roberta Flack, and Eric Stevens.