Grey’s Anatomy: Why did Eric Dane miss the reunion? Actor opens up 

Grey’s Anatomy fans were left heartbroken when Eric Dane, who played the outstanding Dr. Mark, aka the very iconic "McSteamy" Sloan, missed the reunion at the 2025 Emmy Awards.

The actor has now disclosed that he didn't miss the event by choice. Dane revealed that he has been diagnosed with ALS, and was at the time in the hospital after a fall in his kitchen. Speaking to The Washington Post, he explained that he was "getting stitches put in my head" during the Grey’s Anatomy tribute.

What followed was an emotional reflection on the challenges he was facing and the moment he wished he hadn't missed.

---

Behind the missed moment: A reality for a Grey’s Anatomy fan favorite

When Grey's Anatomy celebrated its monumental milestone at the Emmys, longtime fans expected to see Eric Dane back alongside Jesse Williams for a nostalgic tribute. But the reunion that was supposed to bring back the iconic McSteamy never happened.

Dane was meant to present an award with Williams, who played Jackson Avery, but had to pull out at the last minute.

"So I was in the hospital during the Emmys getting stitches put in my head."

The actor revealed that he had a severe fall in his kitchen just some time before the Emmy reunion event. It wasn't just the injury that upset him, but the lost chance to stand beside his old castmates from Seattle Grace. He shared:

"I missed an opportunity I was really looking forward to. It would have been great to see Jesse and get reunited with some of my peers..."

For fans who remember the obvious charm that Dane brought to Grey’s Anatomy and Seattle Grace, his absence at the Emmys hit differently. What was meant to be a time of celebration became a reminder of how uncertain life can be.

---

Resilience beyond Seattle Grace & Grey's Anatomy: Eric Dane’s strength amid ALS

Since revealing his ALS diagnosis earlier this year, the Grey’s Anatomy star has been open about the difficult journey ahead. In an earlier interview with Good Morning America, Dane said:

"My left side is functioning, my right side has completely stopped working."

His honesty struck a chord with fans of Grey’s Anatomy, and for those who have followed his career from the halls of Seattle Grace all the way to Euphoria, co-starring Zendaya and Elordi.

The actor admitted the progression of his illness has been "sobering." He said;

"I feel like maybe a couple more months and I won't have my left hand either..."

Yet, regardless of the reality of ALS, the Grey's Anatomy stars' outlook remains grounded.

He's currently putting his energy into social work with I Am ALS, a nonprofit founded by Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya.

"It's unfortunately the same story when I hear from people...It's like, 'I lost my father, mother, cousin, brother, friend.' It's never, 'My father or mother has been living with it for 10 years now."

Even as he faces his own battle, Dane's determination to bring visibility to ALS is unwavering. He told The Washington Post:

"If I'm going out, I'm gonna go out helping somebody..."

---

Eric Dane's absence at the Grey's Anatomy reunion was more than a scheduling conflict. As he continues to face ALS with bravery, his words remind fans that even though McSteamy may have left the halls of Seattle Grace long ago, he'll always be part of the Grey’s Anatomy team.

---

Stay tuned to SoapCentral for more updates on Grey’s Anatomy.