'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Euphoria' Actor Eric Dane Diagnosed with ALS

Eric Dane, the veteran actor best known as McSteamy for seven seasons of Grey’s Anatomy and, more recently, for his role in HBO’s Euphoria, revealed to PEOPLE magazine that he has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or ALS.

Sometimes known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control. There is no cure. While there are some promising clinical trials, most people diagnosed with ALS die within five years of symptom onset.

Despite the prognosis, Dane plans to continue acting, including appearing in the third season of Euphoria. He told PEOPLE magazine that he is grateful for the support of his family and excited to return to the set of the HBO series. Dane is married to actress Rebecca Gayheart, though they have been separated for many years but remain the “best of friends.” The two co-parent their two daughters.

Eric Dane’s credits also include Gideon’s Crossing, a major role in last year’s Bad Boys: Ride or Die, and five seasons on the cable series The Last Ship. Also, today I learned that Eric Dane appeared on Saved by the Bell in his first acting role.