Ellen Pompeo recalls emotional call with Grey's Anatomy co-star Eric Dane after ALS diagnosis; says, ‘I texted him… my phone rang 30 seconds later’

Ellen Pompeo on Grey Anatomy

• Ellen Pompeo supports Eric Dane after his early 2025 ALS diagnosis.
• She remembered their instant chemistry on Grey's Anatomy and lasting friendship.
• Pompeo shared pride and love for Dane in a video at the ALS Network Gala.

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Ellen Pompeo has opened up about her enduring friendship with Grey’s Anatomy co-star Eric Dane. She shared an emotional memory of reaching out to him following his ALS diagnosis and reflected on their long-standing bond.

Ellen Pompeo has shared a deeply personal recollection of the moment she reached out to her longtime friend and Grey’s Anatomy co-star Eric Dane after learning about his amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis in early 2025. Speaking through a pre-recorded video message at the ALS Network Champions for Cures & Care Gala, the actress offered a glimpse into their friendship and the emotional conversation that followed the news.

Ellen Pompeo, who played Meredith Grey alongside Eric Dane’s Mark Sloan on the iconic medical drama, revealed that her instinct was to immediately contact him upon hearing about his health battle. “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 recalled.

The actress went on to describe the supportive message she conveyed to Eric during their conversation. She promised to stand by him with “whatever you need, however I can help. I love you.” Ellen also used her platform at the gala to express admiration and pride for her former co-star, adding, “I’m really proud of you. I love you so much, and I am honored to get to speak about you today.”

Although neither Ellen Pompeo nor Eric Dane was physically present at the event, their connection was evident through the video tribute displayed for attendees. Eric, who had initially planned to attend, reportedly had to cancel shortly before the gala due to health concerns.

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During her speech, Ellen Pompeo also looked back on their first meeting on the set of Grey’s Anatomy. She recalled the immediate rapport they shared when Eric Dane joined the show as the charismatic plastic surgeon Mark Sloan. “I remember when he came in as McSteamy and us having instant electric chemistry, and I immediately just fell in love with him,” she said.

Eric Dane portrayed Mark Sloan from 2002 until his character’s departure in 2012, later returning for a cameo appearance in 2021. Ellen Pompeo continued as a central figure on the long-running series for several more seasons, but their bond, she emphasised, has extended far beyond the show.