Former Grey’s Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey opened up about the ALS diagnosis of Eric Dane, another prominent member of the long-running drama series. Dane was diagnosed with ALS in April 2025, and his condition has worsened since.
Patrick Dempsey praises Eric Dane’s ‘courageous’ attitude towards ALS diagnosis
While speaking to Parade about his upcoming Fox thriller, Memory of Killer, Patrick Dempsey, who played Dr. Derek Shepherd on Grey’s Anatomy, also answered a question about Eric Dane.
Dempsey and Dane were once dubbed “McDreamy” and “McSteamy” by fans of Grey’s Anatomy during their time together on the show. After the show, the pair continued to maintain a strong bond, and Dempsey even wanted Dane to be part of his new series, Memory of Killer, but due to Dane’s progressing disease, this could not happen.
“I spoke to him a few weeks ago. I’ve been texting with him. We were trying to get him in [Killer], but unfortunately, the progression of his disease made it virtually impossible. But I was happy to see that he was here in Toronto working on, I think, another medical drama [Brilliant Minds],” Dempsey said, answering a question about Dane.
He continued, “It’s very hard for him, but I do try to stay in touch and see how he’s doing. I think he’s been incredibly courageous in the face of this horrible disease.”
Dempsey further added about his former co-star and friend, “He’s such a wonderful human being. He has such a great sense of humor, and he’s so intelligent. I’ve always enjoyed working and being around Eric.” He expanded, “It’s heartbreaking. It really is. For him and for his family. You feel for them when you see this terrible disease and how quickly it attacks the body. But he’s bringing a lot of light to that, and he’s positively using his platform. I wish him the best.”
As of 2026, Eric Dane requires 24-hour nursing care and uses a wheelchair full-time.
