Actor Russell Andrews, known for his roles in Better Call Saul, Insecure and Straight Outta Compton, has publicly revealed that he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in late 2025.
Andrews made the announcement on CNN’s The Story Is with Alex Michaelson, where he described the diagnosis as both “humbling” and transformative. Andrews, 64, shared the diagnosis during an emotional interview with his fiancée, actor Erica Tazel, who said he remained committed to her despite the life-altering condition.
“I’m a person living with ALS,” Andrews told Michelson as he sat next to Tazel, whom CNN said has been providing care since his diagnosis.
Andrews, who also appeared on Grey’s Anatomy, revealed his ALS diagnosis months after fellow star Eric Dane died from the disease.
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Russell Andrews details painful journey to diagnosis
The actor said the initial symptoms appeared during the COVID-19 pandemic and worsened during the Hollywood strikes that disrupted the entertainment industry in 2023. He initially believed he was suffering from a pinched nerve or possibly stroke-related symptoms after experiencing muscle twitches, weakness and difficulty performing simple tasks.
Speaking candidly during the interview, Andrews recalled how subtle physical changes gradually became impossible to ignore. “I was dropping cups and glasses,” he said, describing the progression of symptoms that ultimately led him to seek medical attention.
Tazel said he noticed changes before the diagnosis was official. They pointed to small but concerning changes in Andrews’ daily routine, including the way he walked and the amount of time it took him to perform routine activities.
“It took them longer to clean the pool,” Tazel said during the interview, adding that he realized “something was definitely wrong.”
Andrews further revealed that he lost health insurance during the industry shutdown due to the strike. This delayed his diagnosis as he was not able to undergo medical evaluation.
Once he got insurance coverage back, doctors immediately referred him to a neurologist, which ultimately led to an ALS diagnosis. “Within 15 minutes, first aid [physician] She said she would like me to see a neurologist,” Andrews said.
What is ALS?
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to impaired mobility, speech and independence.
Although there is currently no cure, advances in treatment, research, and advocacy are helping the community move forward.
“The ALS Network is built around a simple truth, that no one should face ALS alone,” said Sherry Strahl, MPH, MBA, president and CEO of the ALS Network.
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Actors join ALS Network to raise awareness during ALS Awareness Month
Following his public announcement, Andrews has partnered with the ALS Network to help raise awareness of the disease during ALS Awareness Month in May.
“Receiving this diagnosis changed my life,” Andrews said. “What I didn’t expect was the depth of connection and the support that comes with it. There’s a community here that shows in ways that matter.”
The organization confirmed that Andrews, Tazel and their daughter Anya will actively participate in advocacy campaigns to improve support systems, awareness and access to resources for patients and families.
“Russell, Erica and Anya’s willingness to share their journey provides visibility to the realities of this disease and the strength of community behind it,” Strahl said.
“This moment is bigger than me,” Andrews said. “It’s about making sure people feel supported and making sure we keep moving forward.”
“I still want to be your wife.”
Andrews, a respected theater artist often referred to as playwright August Wilson’s “hired gun”, has enjoyed a decades-long acting career on television, film and stage. His acclaimed theater credits include Jitney, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, and King Hedley II.
However, on the Internet, Tazel’s emotional reaction to the diagnosis came true to what ALS needs most, and that’s support. Tazel recalled the moment she learned what Andrews was struggling with, saying, “At least now we know what it is, and I still want to be your wife.”