Eric Dane skipped the Emmys presentation following a hospital stay as he fights ALS.

Eric Dane Hospitalized on Emmy Night

What was expected to be a memorable Emmy Awards evening took an unexpected turn for actor Eric Dane. The 52-year-old star of “Grey’s Anatomy” shared in a recent interview that he ended up in the hospital after falling in his kitchen on the night of the ceremony.

Dane, who revealed earlier this year that he is battling ALS, expressed his disappointment about missing the awards. He noted, “ALS is a nasty illness,” which certainly adds to the challenges he’s facing. His hospital visit coincided with plans to attend the Emmy Awards, where he and his former co-star, Jesse Williams, were to celebrate the show’s 20th anniversary. Ultimately, Williams attended alone to present the award for outstanding director in a drama series.

“I missed the opportunity I was really looking forward to,” Dane shared. “It must have been great to meet Jesse, reunite with some of my peers, and share a special moment.” Reflecting on his absence, he said, “I was really upset about it, but you know, there was nothing I could do.”

Dane announced his ALS diagnosis in April 2025. ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that impairs motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to various motor function challenges.

As Dane continues to navigate this difficult road, his wife, actress Rebecca Gayhart, has opened up about their family’s experience with the illness. In a discussion, she mentioned the support of a therapist in helping them cope. “We’re just trying to do it with hope, dignity, grace, and love,” she said, adding it’s been a tough time. “My girl is really suffering, and we’re just trying to get through it.”

In another interview, Gayhart reflected on the emotional toll of the situation, mentioning that, “I don’t think I’m in a place where I can still pull out positive nuggets. I’m not there yet.” She noted that even though they face significant challenges, Dane will always be part of her family, regardless of their marital status.