The 2025 Emmy Awards took place to celebrate the best in television, but one familiar face was noticeably absent: Eric Dane. Despite being slated to present an award, the actor, best known for his role in Grey's Anatomy, was not present at the prestigious ceremony.

Dane's absence raised immediate concerns among fans, particularly given his recent public announcement regarding his health. The actor has been courageously battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

The news of his ALS diagnosis first surfaced in April 2025 during an interview, marking a significant turning point for the actor and his career. It served as a stark reminder of the challenges many individuals face behind the glamour of Hollywood.

Compounding the situation, Dane had recently shared details about the progression of his condition. In an emotional interview with Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America, he revealed that he had completely lost the use of his right hand. The revelation painted a sobering picture of the disease's impact on his daily life.

"I feel like maybe a couple more months and I won’t have my left hand either. It’s sobering," Dane shared, highlighting the relentless and progressive nature of ALS. His words resonated deeply, sparking an outpouring of support from fans and fellow actors alike.

Dane recounted the initial symptoms, describing a growing "weakness" and "fatigue" in his right hand. Initially, he dismissed these signs, attributing them to overuse from texting. However, the symptoms worsened, prompting him to seek medical advice and ultimately leading to his diagnosis.

After undergoing extensive testing and consultations with numerous specialists over nine months, Dane received the life-altering diagnosis. "I will never forget those three letters," he said, referring to ALS, underscoring the profound impact of the moment.

The actor also bravely addressed his fears about the future progression of the disease, particularly the potential loss of cognitive function and the use of his legs. This concern stemmed from a recent frightening incident where he nearly drowned during a boat trip, realizing he had lost the strength to swim effectively. His daughter had to rescue him.

The absence of Eric Dane from the Emmys prompted an immediate reaction from fans, with many expressing their concern and offering prayers for his well-being. Social media platforms lit up with messages of support, demonstrating the strong connection he has forged with his audience throughout his career.

While Dane did not provide a specific reason for missing the Emmy Awards, his health battle undoubtedly played a significant role. His decision to prioritize his well-being and manage his condition is understandable, given the demands and pressures associated with public appearances.

In spite of the challenges he faces, Eric Dane has expressed unwavering determination to fight ALS head-on. "I just don't feel like in my heart this is the end of me. I'm fighting as much as I can," he affirmed, conveying a spirit of resilience and hope.

ALS, often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, affects motor neurons, which are nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. As these neurons degenerate and die, the muscles gradually weaken and waste away, eventually leading to paralysis.

The disease is named after Lou Gehrig, a legendary baseball player who was diagnosed with ALS in 1939. Gehrig's public battle with the disease brought national attention to the condition and helped raise awareness and funding for research.

Lou Gehrig, nicknamed "The Iron Horse," was a celebrated first baseman for the New York Yankees. His consecutive games streak of 2,130 stood as a record for 56 years, a testament to his remarkable endurance and dedication.

Gehrig's diagnosis and subsequent retirement from baseball at the age of 36 shocked the nation. He delivered a poignant farewell speech at Yankee Stadium, expressing his gratitude for his career and his teammates, even in the face of adversity.

Sadly, Lou Gehrig succumbed to ALS just two years after his diagnosis, at the age of 37. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate efforts to find a cure for this devastating disease.

The Emmy Awards themselves celebrated outstanding achievements in television. Britt Lower took home the award for Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Severance, while Noah Wyle won Lead Actor in a Drama Series for The Pitt. The supporting actress and actor awards in the same category were won by Katherine LaNasa and Tramell Tillman, respectively, both for their work in The Pitt.

In the comedy categories, Jean Smart earned the Lead Actress award for Hacks, and Seth Rogen secured the Lead Actor award for The Studio. Hannah Einbinder (Hacks) and Jeff Hiller (Somebody Somewhere) were recognized as the supporting actress and actor, respectively. Bryan Cranston and Julianne Nicholson were awarded guest roles in *The Studio* and *Hacks* respectively.

For limited or anthology series, Cristin Milioti won Lead Actress for The Penguin, and Stephen Graham won Lead Actor for *Adolescence*. The supporting actor and actress awards went to Erin Doherty and Owen Cooper, both for *Adolescence*.

The top series awards were given to The Pitt for Outstanding Drama Series, The Studio for Outstanding Comedy Series, and *Adolescence* for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series. Additionally, Rebel Ridge was named Outstanding Television Movie.

In other categories, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert won Outstanding Talk Series, The Traitors won Outstanding Reality Competition Program, Queer Eye won Outstanding Structured Reality Program, and Love On The Spectrum won Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program.

Despite his absence from the Emmys, Eric Dane remains an admired figure in the entertainment industry. His courage in sharing his health journey has inspired many, and his commitment to fighting ALS serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of research and support for those affected by this challenging condition. Learn more about ALS and how you can help.