Patrick Dempsey has revealed he had been planned to reunite with late Grey’s Anatomy co-star Eric Dane on his new show, Memory of a Killer, prior to his death.

Known for playing neurosurgeon Derek Shepherd on the medical drama, Dempsey wanted Dane, who portrayed plastic surgeon Mark Sloan, to star as his brother on Memory of a Killer. Sadly, the plan never materialised as Dane passed away last week after being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a type of motor neurone disease for which there is no cure.

“We were expecting it. I just didn’t realise it was going to happen so quickly,” Dempsey told Metro.

“His agent had reached out, and we were trying to make it work. But it’s just so shocking how rapidly the disease progressed.”

On Memory of a Killer, Dane was meant to play the brother of Dempsey’s character, hitman Angelo, who had been diagnosed with advanced dementia right as Angelo also receives a diagnosis for it.

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“He was a remarkable actor and a remarkable man to work with, and he is deeply missed,” Dempsey continued, paying tribute to Dane. “I wish his family the best and I’m glad he left such a remarkable legacy.”

“He gave everything he could to bring awareness to his disease at the very end. I know it was very physically difficult for him, but it was incredibly honourable that he did it,” the star continued.

“He stayed strong and he fought as long as he could. Now he’s in a peaceful place.”

Dane, who more recently played Cal Jacobs on Euphoria, shared his diagnosis publicly in April 2025.

“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” he told People last year. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”

On that occasion, Dane also said he’d be returning to the set of Euphoria season 3 soon.

“I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”

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