Eric Dane earned a 10-minute standing ovation from cast and crew while filming NBC’s Brilliant Minds in October. The 53-year-old former Grey’s Anatomy star guest-starred as Matthew, a firefighter hiding his ALS diagnosis from family. Dane was diagnosed with the neurodegenerative disease earlier this year. In the November 24th episode, his character tells Dr. Oliver Wolf, played by Zachary Quinto, “Nobody survives this. We both know that, and I know how to take care of my family.” Creator Michael Grassi told USA Today that Dane received the unprecedented ovation after filming an emotional scene. “It was so beautiful and so honest and so real,” Grassi said. “There’s a lot of bravery in Eric to tell the story as well.” Dane traveled to Washington D.C. in September to advocate for ALS legislation, telling Rep. Eric Swalwell, “I want to ring every bell. I have two daughters at home.” (Story URL)
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Eric Dane Receives Standing Ovation On-Set After Emotional ‘Brilliant Minds’ Performance
Nov 25, 2025 | 7:01 PM