ALS Forces Him to Cancel Gala Appearance - Eric Dane honored as ALS Advocate of the Year amid ongoing battle

Actor Eric Dane was set to receive the Advocate of the Year award at the ALS Network’s Champions for Cures and Care Gala on 25 January 2026. Due to the challenges of living with ALS, he could not attend in person. Instead, a close friend and colleague stepped in to accept the honour on his behalf.

The event celebrated Dane’s contributions while highlighting the ongoing fight against the disease he was diagnosed with in April 2022.

The gala, held in Los Angeles, included a heartfelt montage of Dane’s most memorable roles. Video messages from friends and co-stars played in his honour, underscoring his impact on both the entertainment industry and ALS advocacy.

Dane recorded a personal message for the attendees, expressing gratitude to his family, supporters, and the ALS Network. He stressed the organisation’s crucial role in connecting patients with care and advancing research. His ex-partner, Rebecca Gayheart, whom he married in 2004, later shared that the family is navigating the diagnosis with professional support and a focus on hope. The couple shares two daughters.

Actor Aaron Lazar took the stage in Dane’s place, accepting the Advocate of the Year award. In his speech, Lazar acknowledged Dane’s bravery and dedication to raising awareness about ALS, a condition that has reshaped the actor’s life since his diagnosis nearly four years ago.

The gala honoured Dane’s advocacy while raising funds for ALS research and patient support. His absence served as a reminder of the disease’s harsh realities, even as his message reinforced the importance of continued efforts. The award now stands as recognition of his ongoing commitment to the cause.