Eric Dane Returns to the Red Carpet Amid ALS Diagnosis

Eric Dane made his first public appearance on the red carpet since revealing his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), accompanied by his new girlfriend, Janell Shirtcliff. The couple held hands and appeared close as they attended the premiere of “Countdown” in Los Angeles.

The “Grey’s Anatomy” star, 52, and Shirtcliff, 41, showed affection through smiles and gentle touches during the event. Dane dressed in stylish cream corduroy pants, a white knit cardigan over a tee, completed with sunglasses and white sneakers. Shirtcliff matched her maroon blazer mini-dress with shades, a green Gucci purse, and matching kitten heels.

In interviews, Dane shared that he plans to watch the show with Shirtcliff, though he did not clarify his relationship status. Nonetheless, an insider confirmed they have been dating on and off for over three years and recently enjoyed a date night at Chateau Marmont.

Friends and sources say that Dane and Shirtcliff share a deep bond. An insider explained, “[They] care deeply for each other,” and that Shirtcliff wanted to support Dane during this difficult time. The two also spent quality time together at Chateau Marmont recently.

Dane, who was diagnosed with ALS in April, shared that he has lost function in his right arm, describing it as having “completely stopped working.” He explained that his left arm remains functional, though, and expressed how he relies heavily on his estranged wife, Rebecca Gayheart, for support. Dane and Gayheart, who share two daughters, separated in 2018 but recently called off their divorce after his diagnosis.

“We have become better friends and parents,” Dane said, adding that she is his biggest supporter. He also spoke about his ongoing battle with ALS, an incurable disease affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in muscle control loss.