Fans Praise Jensen Ackles’ Unshakable Support for Eric Dane Amid ALS Journey

When Eric Dane stepped onto the red carpet for the premiere of Prime Video’s new action-thriller “Countdown,” fans weren’t just talking about the upcoming series but rather his strength. Fans were moved by the emotional return of the actor, best known for “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria,” after making his first public appearance since revealing he had been diagnosed with ALS.

By his side? Fellow “Countdown” star Jensen Ackles, whose quiet support and heartfelt friendship have become a central part of Dane’s journey.

Eric Dane’s Diagnosis

In May 2025, the 52-year-old revealed to “Good Morning America” that he had been diagnosed with ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The condition is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

“My left side is functioning; my right side has completely stopped working,” Dane said in a candid interview with Diane Sawyer. “I feel like maybe a couple more months and I won’t have my left hand either. It’s sobering.”

He explained that he first noticed symptoms over 18 months ago, beginning with weakness in his right arm. After nearly a year of extensive testing, he received his official diagnosis in April 2024. Despite the grim prognosis, Dane revealed he isn’t planning to slow down anytime soon. “I am ready and willing to do just about anything, but I have limitations that I understand will preclude me from playing certain roles,” he said. “I’m working on ‘Euphoria.’” I finished ‘Countdown.’ As far as that goes, I’m pretty capable.”

Jensen Ackles Shows Support for Dane

Ackles, best known for playing Dean Winchester on the CW series “Supernatural,” is notorious for forming legendary bonds on set. Most notably with Jared Padalecki, his co-star and brother in the series, for 15 seasons. It’s clear he brings that same warmth and camaraderie to every project, including “Countdown.”

So yes, Ackles and Dane quickly forged a connection during filming. Ackles was actually one of the first people Dane confided in about his diagnosis.

“I told Jensen early on,” Dane said in an interview with Access Hollywood. “Because I had known in November of 2024, I told Jensen very early on so he knew what he was dealing with. I have never seen such an outpouring of love and support than I have over the past few months. It’s been beautiful. I wish the circumstances were different, but it’s nice to see.”

Ackles returned the sentiment during the “Countdown“ premiere, where he praised Dane’s professionalism and resilience.

“He’s a total stud,” Ackles told People. “He has such a command of the scenes and the set, just in his stillness and his quiet leadership. And it’s something that he brings off-set too. There is just a quiet leadership to him that I just really learned from. So to get to mix it up with him on screen, I had to bring it.”

Several fans commented on videos shared of the two at the event, with one user saying, “I feel the universe brought Jensen and Eric together at this time for a reason. Jensen is so kind and I can’t think of a better support friend.”

“Glad they are having a moment. They need to embrace these moments in because with ALS it’s going to be a rough road,” another user said.

‘Countdown’ on Prime Video

In “Countdown,” Ackles stars as LAPD detective Mark Meachum, who joins a covert task force investigating the murder of a Department of Homeland Security officer. As the investigation unfolds, the team quickly uncovers a highly dangerous plot that threatens the lives of millions.

According to Deadline, the series “follows an officer with the Department of Homeland Security who is murdered in broad daylight. LAPD detective Mark Meachum (Ackles) is recruited to a secret task force, alongside undercover agents from all branches of law enforcement, to investigate. But the hunt for the killer soon uncovers a plot far more sinister than anyone could have imagined.”

The first three episodes are set to premiere on Prime Video on June 25, with new episodes released weekly.

Jensen Ackles & Eric Dane: A Friendship that Transcends the Screen

While “Countdown” promises action and suspense, it’s the behind-the-scenes connection between Ackles and Dane that has captured hearts left and right. As Dane continues to navigate his diagnosis with courage and grace, Ackles is making it clear he remains in his corner, cheering him on with admiration and brotherhood.

Hollywood can be a tough place, but this friendship proves that even amid terrifying personal battles, real connections can thrive.

And yes, fans are here for it. As one user said, it “makes me happy knowing Eric has a friend for life in Jensen.”

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