Patrick Dempsey recently shared poignant details about his former Grey's Anatomy co-star Eric Dane's ongoing battle with ALS, explaining how the devastating illness has created significant barriers to their professional reunion. In an interview published Wednesday, the 60-year-old actor provided a rare glimpse into his private communications with Dane and the harsh realities of living with this progressive disease.
The two performers, who rose to fame as Dr. Derek "McDreamy" Shepherd and Dr. Mark "McSteamy" Sloan on the hit medical series, had been exploring opportunities to work together again. However, the aggressive nature of ALS has made such collaborations extraordinarily difficult.
Dempsey revealed to Parade magazine that he maintains consistent contact with his longtime friend. "I spoke to him a few weeks ago. I've been texting with him," Dempsey shared, highlighting their sustained friendship despite the physical limitations imposed by Dane's condition.
Their most recent attempt at collaboration was for Dempsey's new project "Memory of a Killer," which debuted on Fox Sunday evening. The actor explained the unfortunate circumstances: "We were trying to get him in ['Memory of a Killer'], but unfortunately, the progression of his disease made it virtually impossible." This statement illuminates how quickly ALS can advance, stripping away physical abilities that many take for granted.
While Dane couldn't participate in Dempsey's latest venture, he has shown remarkable determination by continuing to act when possible. Dempsey expressed genuine happiness seeing his colleague persist in his craft: "But I was happy to see that he was here in Toronto working on, I think, another medical drama." This refers to Dane's emotionally charged guest role on NBC's "Brilliant Minds" in November, where he portrayed a 9/11 firefighter confronting an ALS diagnosis—a performance that carried profound personal significance.
Dempsey spoke at length about Dane's approach to his diagnosis, demonstrating deep respect for his friend's fortitude. "It's very hard for him, but I do try to stay in touch and see how he's doing," Dempsey said thoughtfully. "I think he's been incredibly courageous in the face of this horrible disease."
The admiration continued as Dempsey reflected on Dane's personal qualities: "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." These comments reveal the authentic camaraderie developed during their years sharing sets and storylines on Grey's Anatomy.
Addressing the broader impact, Dempsey described Dane's situation as "heartbreaking" for both the actor and his loved ones. "You feel for them when you see this terrible disease and how quickly it attacks the body," he observed. "But he's bringing a lot of light to that, and he's using his platform in a positive way."
Dempsey concluded his remarks with heartfelt simplicity: "I wish him the best."
The professional history between these two actors spans nearly a decade of Grey's Anatomy episodes. Dane joined the series as a regular in Season 3 in 2006, bringing to life the charismatic and complex Dr. Mark Sloan until his character's exit in the Season 9 premiere in 2012. Dempsey, as the show's original leading man Dr. Derek Shepherd, remained central to the narrative from the pilot in 2005 until his own departure in Season 11 in 2015. Their characters' evolving relationship—from rivals to friends—mirrored the actors' real-world connection.
The publication of Dempsey's interview followed closely on the heels of news that Dane had withdrawn from a major ALS fundraising and awareness event. The ALS Network's Champions for Cures and Care Gala, held Saturday, was set to honor Dane with the Advocate of the Year Award. However, the actor's health prevented his attendance.
An organization spokesperson explained to The Hollywood Reporter: "The ALS Network has been informed that Eric Dane had hoped to join us this evening to accept his Advocate of the Year Award, but due to the physical realities of ALS, he is not well enough to attend."
Despite his absence, the ALS Network emphasized their unwavering support: "We remain deeply grateful for his courage, advocacy and continued commitment to the ALS community, and we honor him fully this evening with our profound respect and support."
Dane first publicly disclosed his diagnosis in April 2025, immediately drawing attention to a disease that impacts approximately 30,000 Americans at any given time, with about 5,000 new cases diagnosed annually. His transparency has helped destigmatize the condition and drive conversations about research funding and patient support.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease, progressively destroys motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. This degeneration leads to muscle weakness, loss of voluntary movement, difficulty speaking and swallowing, and eventually respiratory failure. While recent FDA-approved treatments like tofersen and AMX0035 offer hope for slowing progression in some patients, there remains no cure.
Dane's continued work on "Brilliant Minds" while managing his symptoms exemplifies both his personal resilience and the television industry's increasing capacity to accommodate performers with health challenges. His decision to portray a character facing the same diagnosis provided the role with authenticity and emotional weight that resonated deeply with viewers and critics alike.
For Dempsey, witnessing his friend's journey has undoubtedly been emotionally complex. His public comments serve dual purposes: updating concerned fans and affirming their lasting bond. In an industry often characterized by transient relationships, the solidarity between these two actors stands out as genuine and deeply rooted.
The missed opportunity for a reunion in "Memory of a Killer" represents more than just a casting challenge—it symbolizes the unpredictable ways illness can reshape professional and personal plans. Fans who had eagerly anticipated seeing McDreamy and McSteamy together again must instead appreciate the deeper story of friendship and advocacy unfolding in real life.
As Dane continues leveraging his public profile to illuminate the realities of ALS, Dempsey's vocal support amplifies the message. Celebrity advocacy plays a vital role in medical research funding, and when two prominent figures speak candidly about a condition, it helps transform abstract statistics into human stories.
This narrative extends beyond Hollywood gossip to touch on universal themes: the fragility of health, the importance of scientific advancement, and the power of friendship during adversity. It reminds audiences that behind the glamorous facade of television stardom are real people confronting serious challenges.
While the entertainment industry continues to evolve in its representation of disability and illness, Dane's openness about his ALS journey represents a significant step forward. Rather than hiding his diagnosis, he has chosen to become a face for the disease, using his craft to educate and inspire even as he personally battles its effects.
Dempsey's decision to speak publicly about his friend's condition further normalizes these conversations. By sharing his texts and phone calls with Dane, he models how to support loved ones facing serious illness—through consistent presence, honest communication, and public advocacy.
The story also highlights the unique position of actors who become icons through beloved roles. When someone like Eric Dane faces a health crisis, it doesn't just affect him and his family; it impacts millions of fans who feel connected to him through his characters. This collective concern can be channeled into positive action, such as increased donations to ALS research organizations.
Looking ahead, the door remains open for future collaborations if Dane's health stabilizes or if productions can adapt to his needs. The entertainment industry has made strides in accessibility and accommodation, and many productions now prioritize inclusive casting practices that could allow Dane to continue working in modified capacities.
For now, the focus remains on Dane's health and his advocacy work. His courage in facing ALS publicly, combined with Dempsey's steadfast support, creates a narrative more powerful than any scripted medical drama. It serves as a testament to the enduring bonds formed in creative collaboration and the strength found in community during life's most difficult trials.