Skip to main content

Actor Eric Dane of Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria fame received an ALS diagnosis. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a fatal illness affecting nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain, worsening over time. So, what is the average life expectancy for someone diagnosed with ALS? Here’s what to know about Dane’s diagnosis.

What is the life expectancy for ALS, the disease Eric Dane has?

Related

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Alum Eric Dane Doesn’t Remember His ‘Saved by the Bell’ Scene

Eric Dane, 52, shared his ALS diagnosis with People on April 10, 2025.

“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” the Euphoria actor stated. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” 

“I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week,” he continued. “I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) causes a loss of muscle control. Symptoms include muscle twitching, weakness in one arm or leg, trouble swallowing, or slurred speech, according to Mayo Clinic. The disease is fatal and eventually affects the muscles that control eating, breathing, speaking, and moving.

Risk factors include age and sex, as it most commonly develops between the ages of 60 and 85. More men develop ALS than women before age 65. Approximately 10% of people who develop the disease have an inherited gene.

The symptoms of ALS depend on which nerve cells the disease affects, though it typically begins in the hands, feet, arms, or legs before spreading to other parts of the body. There’s typically no pain in the early or late stages.

So, what is the life expectancy for Dane? According to the ALS Association, the average person diagnosed will live for three years, with about 20% of diagnosed people living to five years. About 5% of diagnosed people live over 20 years. ALS United Chicago reports those over the age of 75 have a six-fold increase in one-year mortality compared to those diagnosed under the age of 65.

For more news and exclusive interviews, follow Showbiz Cheat Sheet’s Instagram.

Best in News