Eric Dane Receives 10-Minute Standing Ovation Filming “Brilliant Minds” While Battling ALS

Eric Dane, known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, made a powerful guest appearance on NBC’s Brilliant Minds while living with ALS. The 53-year-old actor played Matthew, a firefighter facing his own ALS diagnosis, in a Season 2 episode that aired on November 24.

Earlier this year, Dane revealed he had been diagnosed with ALS, a progressive disease that gradually weakens muscles by attacking the nerve cells controlling movement.

In the episode, Matthew struggles to accept help and fears becoming a burden to his family. Speaking to Dr. Oliver Wolf, played by Zachary Quinto, Matthew says, “Nobody survives this. We both know that, and I know how to take care of my family.”

Michael Grassi, the creator of Brilliant Minds, told USA Today that working with Dane was a joy. He said the actor brought humor and warmth to the set between takes. After filming an especially emotional scene, the cast and crew gave Dane what Grassi described as a ten-minute standing ovation.

“I have never seen this happen in my entire career, but he essentially got a 10-minute standing ovation after shooting that scene, because it was so beautiful and so honest and so real,” Grassi said.

“Also, while his character’s finding bravery, there’s a lot of bravery in Eric to tell the story as well. To come out and share this part of yourself is vulnerable but also really important, and I think raises awareness and shows people that they’re not alone.”

Outside of acting, Dane has been active in advocacy. In September, he visited Washington, D.C., to meet with Rep. Eric Swalwell and support legislation backed by the I Am ALS organization. Speaking about his motivation, Dane said, “I have two daughters at home. I want to see them graduate college, get married, maybe even have grandkids. I want to be there for all that, so I’m going to fight until the last breath.”

Dane is also known for his role as Cal Jacobs in Euphoria. His guest appearance on Brilliant Minds demonstrates both his commitment to storytelling and his courage in facing ALS publicly. By sharing his experience through his work, Dane is helping raise awareness about the disease and inspiring others who may be struggling.

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