Ellen Pompeo's Tear-Jerking Text to Eric Dane After ALS News: 'My Phone Rang 30 Seconds Later'

BY Casey Wright • FEBRUARY 4 2026 AT 5:27 PM ET

Credit: Ellen Pompeo in April 2025, and Eric Dane in June 2025. Credit: Gilbert Flores/Deadline via Getty; VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty

In a moment that reveals the unbreakable bond between former co-stars, Ellen Pompeo has opened up about her immediate, emotional response to learning Eric Dane's devastating ALS diagnosis—and the powerful connection that followed just seconds later.

"The moment I heard, my heart just dropped," Pompeo shared in a pre-recorded message played at the ALS Network Champions for Cures & Care Gala, as reported by PEOPLE. "I texted him immediately: 'I'm here if you want to talk.' And my phone rang just 30 seconds later."

The 'Grey's Anatomy' star honored her longtime friend during the event where Dane received the Advocate of the Year Award, revealing she promised him, "Whatever you need, however I can help. I love you."

"I'm truly proud of you," she expressed, her voice filled with emotion. "I love you so much, and I feel privileged to speak about you today."

Ellen Pompeo and Eric Dane on 'Grey's Anatomy' in 2006. Scott Garfield/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

Neither Pompeo nor the 'Euphoria' actor attended the gala in Pasadena on Jan. 24 in person. Dane was scheduled to accept his award, but organizers revealed that evening that he couldn't attend "due to the physical realities of ALS."

"We continue to be immensely thankful for his bravery, advocacy, and ongoing dedication to the ALS community," an ALSN representative stated to TheEntBase. "We honor him completely tonight with our deepest respect and backing."

Broadway performer and Grammy nominee Aaron Lazar, diagnosed with ALS in 2022, accepted the award on Dane's behalf.

In a powerful pre-recorded video message, Dane expressed gratitude for the Advocate of the Year Award, dedicating it to "my wonderful loved ones who are battling alongside me, and everyone who has confronted ALS with bravery."

"For every caregiver who dedicates their heart and effort day after day and for every advocate who speaks up to drive progress," the 'Countdown' star remarked, his voice steady with determination.

Eric Dane speaks about his ALS diagnosis on June 23, 2025. SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty

Dane revealed his ALS diagnosis in April of last year after nine months of medical tests. In June, the actor announced he was stepping back from acting, and his ex-wife, Rebecca Gayheart (the couple are legally married but separated in 2017), has been providing care for him.

Since his announcement, Dane has become a fervent advocate for both those diagnosed with ALS and their caregivers, stating, "I believe it's essential to share my journey with as many people as possible because I no longer want to hide."

He praised the ALS Network's efforts to "combine care, research, and advocacy to enhance and prolong the lives of individuals with ALS," concluding with a message of hope: "With the support of the ALS Network, we will eventually be able to defeat ALS together."

This story of friendship and resilience is touching hearts across social media. Share your thoughts and support using #DaneStrong.

THE ENTBASE VIEW

"This story transcends celebrity gossip—it's about human connection in the face of adversity. Pompeo's immediate response and Dane's quick call back show a friendship that goes beyond Hollywood. In an era of superficial connections, their 30-second response time speaks volumes about genuine care. Dane's advocacy work while battling ALS himself is nothing short of heroic, and Pompeo's public support amplifies his message. This is the kind of story that reminds us what truly matters: showing up for each other when it counts most."

CONTRIBUTOR: Casey Wright

Media Industry Analyst. Tracking the "Streaming Wars," platform mergers, and executive leadership shifts in Hollywood.