Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · October 2, 2025 · Entertainment

Eric Dane's Powerful Pledge: 'Fight Until My Last Breath' Amid ALS Battle

Eric Dane is not giving up the fight amid his ALS battle after a heartbreaking update on his health decline

ERIC DANE'S FIGHT AGAINST ALS: THE ACTOR REFUSES TO GIVE UP HOPE AS HE SHOCKS WITH HIS CANDID INTERVIEW ABOUT HIS HEALTH DECLINE

In a heart-wrenching sit-down interview with California congressman Eric Swalwell, Grey's Anatomy star Eric Dane revealed his unwavering optimism about the future despite his battle with ALS. The 52-year-old actor got candid about his hopes and fears as he navigates this life-altering diagnosis alongside his wife Rebecca Gayheart and their two teenage daughters.

The news of Dane's absence from the Emmys earlier this month sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, sparking concern among fans who had been eagerly awaiting his return to the red carpet. Just five months ago, the actor had announced his ALS diagnosis, sending him into a whirlwind of emotions as he faced the harsh reality of living with this debilitating neurological disease.

The actor participated in a sit down interview with California congressman Eric Swalwell.

But in a courageous display of resilience, Dane has refused to give up hope. "I wanna ring every bell," he declared, his voice filled with conviction. "I have two daughters at home. I wanna see them graduate college, get married, maybe have grandkids." The passion in his words was palpable as he expressed his desire to be present for every milestone in their lives.

When asked about his plans for the future, Dane's response was nothing short of inspiring: "So, I’m gonna fight until the last breath on this one." The sentiment echoed through his conversation with Swalwell and a panel of medical experts from the I Am ALS organization, who joined them to discuss federal funding for ALS research.

As he navigated the complex landscape of living with ALS, Dane shed light on the pressing issue of delayed diagnoses and limited access to clinical trials. "ALS is the last thing they want to diagnose anybody with," he pointed out, emphasizing the urgent need for increased awareness and support. His words were a rallying cry for those affected by this merciless disease.

The politician recently posted a clip on his social media page in which the actor bravely said: 'I wanna ring every bell. I have two daughters at home. I wanna see them graduate college, get married, maybe have grandkids.'

The conversation took an even more personal turn as Dane's wife Rebecca Gayheart joined in via video call. She spoke candidly about the family's struggle to cope with Eric's diagnosis, acknowledging that their teenage daughters Billie (15) and Georgia (13) have been particularly hard hit. "It's heartbreaking," she said, her voice trembling with emotion. "My girls are really suffering, and we're just trying to get through it. It's a tough time."

Yet, even in the midst of this darkness, Gayheart expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support they've received from loved ones and medical professionals. "We have some professional therapists who are helping us, and we're just trying to have some hope and do it with dignity, grace, and love." Her words were a testament to the strength of their family bond as they face this unrelenting challenge.

The evening's discussion also touched on the landmark Act for ALS law, which was signed into effect in 2021 but is set to expire in 2026. The bill aimed to increase funding for ALS research and improve patient access to treatments, but its limited lifespan has sparked concerns about what the future holds. Dane expressed his commitment to advocating for continued support: "We need the fastest path to a cure, and that's why I partnered with I AM ALS on the Push for Progress."

Last month, the Grey's Anatomy star sparked concern with his absence from the Emmys — just five months after announcing his ALS diagnosis

As he concluded his emotional conversation with Swalwell and the experts, Dane's determination shone through like a beacon of hope in the darkness. With his trademark resilience and unwavering commitment to his family, he has become an unlikely champion in the fight against ALS.

Eric Dane's ALS Diagnosis: A Timeline

  • 2023: Eric Dane announces his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) on social media
  • April 2024: The actor is absent from the Emmys despite previously announcing his appearance to present an award alongside Grey's Anatomy co-star Jesse Williams
  • May 2024: Eric Dane makes a virtual appearance, partnering with I AM ALS on the Push for Progress initiative to raise awareness and funding for ALS research

The actor and government official were also joined by doctors and representatives from the I Am ALS organization during the meeting as they talked about federal funding toward the debilitating neurological disease

A Glimpse into Eric Dane's Relationship with Rebecca Gayheart

  • The couple met in 2001 and tied the knot in 2004
  • They welcomed their first daughter, Billie Beatrice, in 2007 and Georgia Geraldine in 2009
  • In 2018, Gayheart filed for divorce, but they called off the split just seven years later.

Dane went on to declare: 'I wanna be there for all that. So, I’m gonna fight until the last breath on this one'