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‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Alum Eric Dane Opens Up On His ALS Diagnosis to Diane Sawyer on ‘Good Morning America’
On Monday’s Good Morning America, Eric Dane the former “Dr. McSteamy” of Grey’s Anatomy sat down with Diane Sawyer for his first interview since receiving the heartbreaking news of his ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) diagnosis.
In what turned out to be an extremely emotional conversation, Dane, 52 revealed that he started having symptoms a year and a half ago and underwent nine months of tests, and being bounced from doctor to doctor before receiving the diagnosis of ALS.
Dane explained he was initially having symptoms in his right hand. “I didn’t really think anything of it at the time,” Dane shared with Sawyer, “I thought maybe I’d been texting too much or my hand was fatigued, but a few weeks later I noticed it got a little worse.” He also recalled, “I went and saw a neurologist and the neurologist sent me to another neurologist and said, ‘’This is way above my pay grade.’”
Photo: JPI
“I will never forget those three letters,” Dane said of getting confirmation of his ALS diagnosis. “It’s on me the second I wake up. It’s not a dream.” The actor also revealed that he now only has one functioning arm, and on the other arm he is beginning to lose strength and coordination.
Eric had been married to actress Rebecca Gayheart (ex-Hannah, Loving) and they have two daughters, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13. Gayheart filed for divorce in 2018 after the couple had been married since 2004. However, one month after Dane received his ALS diagnosis, she dismissed the divorce.
In another heartbreaking account, Eric recalls the time when he could not swim after he lost function in his legs while snorkeling, and needed his young daughter to rescue him to safety and back to the boat. “I was like, breaking down in tears. I made sure she got back to the water with her friend and continued on with the snorkeling. I was just heartbroken,” said Dane.
Photo: ABC
However, in the most gut-wrenching moment in the interview, when Sawyer asked who he speaks to to help him through the difficult times, he said it was Rebecca Gayheart. With tears in his eyes, Eric explained that he speaks Gayheart every day, adding, “We have managed to become better friends and better parents. She is probably my biggest champion and my most stalwart supporter. And I lean on her.”
Currently, Dane is set to continue filming his role on Cal Jacobs in season 3 of HBO’s hit drama, Euphoria. The actor is trying to stay present. “I’m fighting as much as I can. There’s so much about it that’s out of my control. I’m angry because my father was taken from me when I was young and now there’s a very good chance I’m going to be taken from my girls while they’re very young.”
Sadly, Dane’s father committed suicide when he was only 7-years-old, making his story more tragic since he understands not having a father around while growing up. As the interview concluded, Dane shared, “At the end of the day, all I want to do is spend time with my family and work a little bit if I can. They’re loved. They know it.”
Daytime fans know that ALS is the same disease that claimed the life of the iconic Michael Zaslow (ex-Roger, GL and ex-David, OLTL), and was also recently a storyline on General Hospital when the character of Gregory Chase played by Gregory Harrison succumbed to the disease.
Watch Eric Dane’s first interview since ALS diagnosis with Good Morning America below.
Now let us know, what did you think of Eric’s journey to learning he has ALS? Have you been a fan of Dane’s throughout his TV and film career? Comment below.
Prayers to him and his family, great actor and all, I hate to read this and know that he and his family are going through this ordeal. Your children and wife are strong and I pray that you somehow a miracle will occur and you get through this ordeal.
My first ALS symptom occurred in 2016, but was diagnosed in 2018. I had severe symptoms ranging from shortness of breath, balance problems, couldn’t walk without a walker or a power chair, i had difficulty swallowing and fatiue. I was given medications which helped but only for a short burst of time, then I decided to try alternative measures and began on ALS Formula treatment from Aknni herbs centre, It has made a tremendous difference for me (Visit ww w. aknniherbscentre.c om). I had improved walking balance, increased appetite, muscle strength, improved eyesight and others.
My first ALS symptom occurred in 2016, but was diagnosed in 2018. I had severe symptoms ranging from shortness of breath, balance problems, couldn’t walk without a walker or a power chair, i had difficulty swallowing and fatiue. I was given medications which helped but only for a short burst of time, then I decided to try alternative measures and began on ALS Formula treatment from Aknni herbs centre, It has made a tremendous difference for me (Visit ww w. aknniherbscentre.c om). I had improved walking balance, increased appetite, muscle strength, improved eyesight and others.
This is such a terrible diagnosis. My heart goes out to him and his family. Fortunately, it sounds like he has an excellent neurologist and treatment team. He has to stay positive and maintain what he has and make adaptations to keep him as independent as possible for as long as possible. I most definitely do remember with the last Michael Zaslow returned to One Life to Live with ALS. Prayers for Eric and his family.
Last year when ALS began to take over, I stopped recognizing myself. I lost my smile, my balance, and my independence. Used different treatments that didn’t work, and neither standard treatments like riluzole nor high-dose B12 did very little for me. I used different supplements that didn’t work, so last July, I tried the ALS/MND protocol—the best decision ever! my symptoms eased. My strength returned, and I sleep soundly. I feel like a new man, and I can walk and exercise again.
Breaking News
2026 Daytime Emmy Awards: ‘Extra’ Partners with NATAS for Pre-Ceremony Red Carpet Stream; Week of Segments Leading to Ceremony and Post-Coverage
The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) announced on Thursday that the syndicated entertainment news series, Extra will be its partner for exclusive coverage of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards being held on Friday, October 30 at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.
The 2026 Daytime Emmys as previously reported can be seen streamed via the The Emmys,YouTube channel, via watch.theemmys.tv, as well as on the official Emmys app, available for phones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Here’s a breakdown of the pre, during and post Daytime Emmys coverage via Extra below!
Beginning Monday, October 26, Extra will feature five nights of dedicated Daytime Emmys segments leading up to the ceremony, giving fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the award show.
In addition, Mona Kosar Abdi, Weekend Host & Senior Correspondent with Extra will host the pre-show red carpet stream on the @TheEmmys Youtube channel.
Extra host and Dancing with the Stars judge, Derek Hough will present during the ceremony, and correspondent Terri Seymour will also host coverage throughout the evening.
Extra’s weekend edition (A WEEK FOLLOWING the ceremony) will features notable red carpet moments, winner reactions, and exclusive footage from the night’s festivities.
The entertainment news program is also nominated for three Daytime Emmy Awards going into the ceremony.
So, what do you think of Extra’s scheduled upcoming coverage of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards starting on Monday? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) revealed on Thursday, the lineup of presenters for 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards taking place on Friday, October 30, 2026, at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, California.
The ceremony will stream live on the NATAS YouTube channel at YouTube.com/@theemmys and watch.TheEmmys.tv.
Scheduled to present from the current soaps are: Katelyn MacMullen (Willow, General Hospital), Delon de Metz (Zende, The Bold and the Beautiful), James Preston (Nick, The Bay), Paul Telfer (Xander, Days of our Lives), Tamara Tunie (Anita, Beyond the Gates) and Susan Walters (Diane, The Young and the Restless).
Photo: NATAS
In addition soap alums, Crystal Chappell, Lesli Kay, Joe Lando, Eva LaRue, who is also a nominee this year, A Martinez, Juliet Mills, and Alicia Leigh Willis, will also be on hand to present.
The ceremony which celebrates nominated lifestyle programs and dramas will also include presenters: Eva zu Beck (Superskilled with Eva zu Beck), Danielle Chang (Lucky Chow), Sunny Hostin (The View), Derek Hough (Extra), Pati Jinich (Pati’s Mexican Table), Star Jones (Divorce Court), Michael Jr. (Stand Up and Do Something), Judge Greg Mathis (Mathis Court with Judge Mathis), Keke Palmer (Glam Through the Ages), Nischelle Turner (Entertainment Tonight), and Andrew Zimmern (Andrew Zimmern’s Wild Game Kitchen).
The 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards will bring together an exciting mix of presenters representing the full spectrum of daytime television,” said Adam Sharp, President & CEO of NATAS. “From familiar faces in daytime drama to the personalities and creative voices behind talk shows and lifestyle programming, this year’s lineup reflects the breadth of talent that makes daytime so special. We look forward to celebrating the people who continue to shape the genre.”
Matthew Hoffman (Love Island USA, Cheap A$$ Beach Houses) will serve as the ceremony’s Voice of God, bringing his signature comedic narration to the evening’s celebrations. As previously announced, Lifetime Achievement honoree Genie Francis (Laura, General Hospital) will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by her husband, Jonathan Frakes.
So, what do you think about the list of presenters for the 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards? Let us know who you are looking forward to seeing via the comment section below.
Congratulations are in order for three-time Emmy winner, Tom Pelphrey (ex-GL and ATWT) and his fiancée Big Bang Theory star, Kaley Cuoco! The couple welcomed their second baby daughter together on October 12, and revealed they named the little bundle of joy, Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey.
Tom and Kaley shared the news via their Instagram accounts on Wednesday with some adorable baby pics. Cuoco captioned the photo“🎀Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey🎀. 💖10/12/26💖. There are no words to describe this feeling once again. What a blessing.
Cuoco added, “We are so grateful for the crazy wild up and down journey that brought us to our little Philo! Family officially complete 😭Time to bring Matilda’s baby home! 😂💕”
Photo: KCuoco IG
BABY MAKES FOUR
Next, Kaley shared her love for the father of her children, exclaiming, “Tom Pelphrey, life exploded the minute we met, and the gifts keep coming. I love you forever , girl daddy! 💘.”
Philomena now joins big sister, Matilda mwho was born in 2023, as part of the Pelphrey/Cuoco family! Tom and Kaley began dating in 2022 and became engaged in 2024.
Daytime fans first saw the talented actor on Guiding Light as Jonathan Randall, the son of Reva Shayne (Kim Zimmer). Tom won two Daytime Emmys for his memorable performances during his run from 2004-2009.
He later played Mick Dante on As the World Turns from 2009-2010, before heading to work in primetime and motion pictures. Last month, Pelphrey one the Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in HBO’s Task.
TOM PELPHREY CELEBRATES EMMY WIN AND NEW DAUGHTER WITHIN A MONTH OF EACH OTHER
After winning his Emmy, the expectant dad told E! News, “We’re both so excited. Our daughter’s excited. We’ll see how it goes when it actually gets there.” Tom added, “The things that are new and the things that feel like not a big deal this time. But mom and baby are healthy, so God willing, that keeps up, and we’re thrilled,” added the actor.
Pelphrey took to his own Instagram and said on the birth of his second daughter, “Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey. Another miracle. Welcome to our family youngest queen! Kaley you showed up in every way as a partner and a mom even when you weren’t feeling your best- you’re a CHAMPION. The girls and I would be lost without you. Thank God for the gift of this family and these girls.”
Jumping in to the comment thread to congratulate Tom and Kaley were Beyond the Gates star Ashley Jones (Heather), Dave Annabelle, Martha Plimpton, Alyssa Milano and many more.
Share your congrats and well-wishes to Tom, Kaley, Matilda and their new addition to the family, little Philomena via the comment section below.
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2026 Daytime Emmy Awards: ‘Extra’ Partners with NATAS for Pre-Ceremony Red Carpet Stream; Week of Segments Leading to Ceremony and Post-Coverage
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards Presenters Announced
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Susan Flannery and Ian Buchanan Visit the Set of ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’; Daytime Emmy Winners Reflect on Show Then and Now
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Tabitha Brown and Kandi Burruss Guest Star on ‘Beyond the Gates’ for Dani’s ‘Welcome to Your Life’ TV Special; What Could Go Wrong?
‘Beyond the Gates’ Stars Lami and RhonniRose Mantilla Cover Raye’s ‘Nightingale Lane’ in New Music Video
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Katie Stands Up to Brooke, ‘I Have Spent My Entire Life Sacrificing My Happiness for Yours. But No More!’
Days of our Lives’ Conner Floyd Talks Dominic Marino Mystery, Chad and Belle, and Susan Seaforth Hayes (Exclusive)
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS Preview: What Has Happened to Jill?
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Adam Delivers Sally’s Baby as Billy Reels from Jill’s Health Crisis in Tearjerker Episode
‘Days of our Lives’ Reveals Kyle Pryor Cast as Dominic Marino
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Finn Blows a Gasket After Steffy Reveals She’s Gone Ahead and Become Carter and Daphne’s Surrogate
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