Eric Dane is not letting his ALS diagnosis stand in the way of television's biggest night, as the actor is set to step onto the Emmys stage this weekend.
Just months ago, Dane revealed he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, vowing at the time that he would keep working despite the progressive illness.
Eric Dane has also admitted he feels upset at his diagnosis, recalling how he lost his father young and now fears his own children may face that same pain.
Eric Dane To Present At The Emmys Amid Ongoing ALS Battle
Dane's high-profile return to the 77th annual Emmy Awards will be his first major public appearance in nearly three months.
The Television Academy confirmed Dane as part of this year's lineup of presenters, placing him alongside names like Stephen Colbert, Jenna Ortega, Walton Goggins, Angela Bassett, and Sydney Sweeney.
His participation will also serve as a reunion with two familiar faces, former "Grey's Anatomy" co-star Jesse Williams and "Euphoria" co-star Colman Domingo, who are also scheduled to present.
Per TMZ, while it has not been revealed which category Dane will introduce, his involvement is drawing significant attention, as he continues to navigate his ALS diagnosis.
The 'Grey's Anatomy' Star Vowed To Keep Working After ALS Diagnosis
It is no surprise that he has been added to the list of Emmy presenters, as back in April, when he first shared news of his ALS diagnosis, he made it clear that stepping away from work was not in his plans.
ALS is a progressive disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, eventually taking away the ability to move, speak, and even breathe. The Blast noted that despite the seriousness of the illness, the star is not ready to slow down his career.
"I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of Euphoria next week," he shared in a statement. He also requested privacy as he navigates the condition.
Dane now joins a group of well-known names who have battled the disease, such as Aaron Lazar, Roberta Flack, Stephen Hawking, and the late Kenneth Mitchell.
The TV Personality Opens Up About His Fears For The Future
Dane has spoken candidly about how ALS is changing his life and the emotions that come with facing the illness. The Blast highlighted that despite his determination to keep working, he knows the disease is spreading quickly and feels as though his mobility is slipping away.
The 52-year-old admitted that the thought of losing the ability to move is not only frightening but also fills him with anger. His frustration deepens when he reflects on losing his father at a young age, and the idea that his own children may face a similar heartbreak weighs heavily on him.
What began as weakness in his left arm has now reached his other arm, with both legs also vulnerable to the effects of ALS. He noted that a snorkeling trip revealed just how much his stability had been affected, leaving him shaken by the reality of his condition.
Fans were deeply moved by his honesty, with some admitting that they were moved to tears.
Dane's Greatest Joys: His Two Daughters, Billie And Georgia
Dane's devotion to his children shows just how much being a father means to him. His diagnosis came around the same time he finalized a seven-year divorce from his estranged wife, Rebecca Gayheart, with whom he shares two daughters.
Billie Beatrice, born in 2010, was Dane and Gayheart's first child. At the time, Dane said he finally felt like he had a family, something he had long wanted.
The entertainer even shared that he would be right by Gayheart's side in the delivery room to make sure everything went smoothly. As a young adult, she is finding her place in the modeling and dance world.
Their second daughter, Georgia Geraldine, arrived in 2011. Gayheart described her pregnancy with Georgia as much easier compared to her first. Now a teenager, Georgia has carved out her own path and developed a love for sports.
Eric Dane Reportedly In A Love Triangle With Janell Shirtcliff And Priya Jain
The father-of-two's personal life is drawing just as much attention as his career. The Blast reported that his alleged girlfriend, Priya Jain, felt blindsided when he showed up at the L.A. premiere of the series "Countdown" with producer Janell Shirtcliff by his side.
Insiders told Entertainment Tonight that Dane and Shirtcliff have shared an on-and-off relationship for more than three years and remain close. Dane reportedly leaned on her for support during this challenging chapter in his life, and she did not hesitate to be there for him.
At the same time, his connection with Jain was thought to be serious. Page Six revealed the pair became "exclusive" last November, with Jain spending much of her time at his home.
Eric Dane is proving that his fight with ALS will not keep him from showing up for both his craft and his fans.
