Eric Dane's final advocacy: his ALS diagnosis, fight for the ACT For ALS bill, and the documentary 'Ring Every Bell' honoring his legacy.
- April 9, 2026
AceShowbiz - Eric Dane, known for his role on Grey's Anatomy, revealed in April of last year that he was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a rare and progressive neurological disease. Before his passing on February 19, 2026, Eric Dane dedicated significant effort to raising awareness and pushing for research advancements targeting this devastating illness.
During the fall of 2025, Eric Dane traveled multiple times to Washington, D.C., advocating for the renewal of ACT For ALS (Accelerating Critical Therapies for ALS). This bill aims to accelerate the development of treatments for ALS and was reintroduced to the House of Representatives earlier this year.
Eric Dane partnered closely with the organization I AM ALS, which has launched a new documentary short titled Ring Every Bell. This film, produced in collaboration with filmmaker Christopher Burke, will highlight Eric Dane's commitment to ALS advocacy. The release is planned to coincide with ALS Awareness Month in May and will be accompanied by a national public service campaign featuring cast members from Grey's Anatomy and other advocates from Hollywood and the ALS community.
On Wednesday, a new clip from Ring Every Bell was released, showcasing Eric Dane's impassioned call to action. In the video, he emphasizes the critical need for the reauthorization and full funding of ACT For ALS to ensure continued access to investigational therapies for those affected by the disease. “We have a bill that needs to get to the floor for reauthorization. And then it needs to get fully funded because if it doesn’t then people who are dependent on some of these investigational therapies no longer have access to them,” he states.
Eric Dane's efforts to promote research and support for ALS patients underscore the urgency surrounding this neurodegenerative disease. The upcoming documentary aims to further amplify his message and inspire continued advocacy and funding in the fight against ALS.