Press release - ABC News Studios

February 24, 2026

‘ERIC DANE: LIFE, LOSS & COURAGE – A DIANE SAWYER SPECIAL’ IS NOW STREAMING ON DISNEY+ AND HULU

ABC News Studios*

“Eric Dane: Life, Loss & Courage – A Diane Sawyer Special” is now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. In the wake of Eric Dane’s death on Feb. 19, 2026, following a ferocious fight with ALS, the special celebrates the beloved actor and revisits ABC News anchor Diane Sawyer’s interview with Dane when he spoke out for the first time about his ALS diagnosis. Dane reflected on the moment he received the news, his symptoms, and how the disease was shaping his future. He also looked back on his early roles, the highs and lows of his time on “Grey’s Anatomy,” his friendship with Ellen Pompeo, and what brings him joy. The special includes never-before-seen excerpts from the interview.

Later, Sawyer and Dane were joined by his physician, Dr. Merit Cudkowicz, a leading ALS expert and the executive director at the Massachusetts General Brigham Neuroscience Institute. They discussed why ALS is difficult to diagnose, the concerning rise in cases, and what everyday factors may play a role. They also spoke about what gives them hope with new research and technology. The episode revisits the viral 2014 Ice Bucket Challenge and its lasting impact on ALS awareness and research.

“IMPACT x Nightline: Eric Dane Speaks: The Diane Sawyer Interview first premiered on Disney+ and Hulu in June 2025.

Eric Dane: Life, Loss & Courage – A Diane Sawyer Special” is executive produced by Christina Ng.

*COPYRIGHT ©2026 American Broadcasting Companies, Inc. All photography is copyrighted material and is for editorial use only. Images are not to be archived, altered, duplicated, resold, retransmitted or used for any other purposes without written permission of ABC News. Images are distributed to the press in order to publicize current programming. Any other usage must be licensed.

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