Ellen Pompeo Recalls What She Said to 'Grey's Anatomy' Co-Star Eric Dane After Learning About His ALS Diagnosis
Ellen Pompeo is helping honor Eric Dane.
The 56-year-old actress showed her support for her former Grey’s Anatomy co-star as the 53-year-old actor was honored ALS Network Champions for Cures & Care Gala on Saturday (January 24).
Though they both did not appear in-person at the event, Ellen shared a pre-taped message where she recalled what she said to Eric immediately after learning of his amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis.
Keep reading to find out more…In her message, Ellen reflected on her initial on-screen connection with Eric when he joined Grey’s for season 2 in 2006.
“I remember when he came in as McSteamy and us having instant electric chemistry, and I immediately just fell in love with him,” she reflected.
Eric went public with his ALS diagnosis in April 2025 and Ellen said that “as soon as I heard about his diagnosis, I texted him, and I said, ‘I’m here if you want to speak.’”
“And my phone rang 30 seconds later,” she continued, before reflecting on their conversation.
Ellen said that she told her longtime friend that she’d help him with “whatever you need, however I can help. I love you.”
“I’m really proud of you,” Ellen added of Eric. “I love you so much and I am honored to get to speak about you today.”
If you didn’t see, fellow Grey’s Anatomy alum Patrick Dempsey shared an update on how Eric is doing amid his health battle.