Russell Andrews Announces ALS Diagnosis in CNN Interview

Actor Russell Andrews has publicly revealed his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease. The 64-year-old actor, known for roles in "Better Call Saul," "Straight Outta Compton," and "Grey's Anatomy," shared the news alongside his fiancée, actress Erica Tazel, during an interview on CNN's "The Story Is with Elex Michaelson" on Saturday.

Andrews stated he was diagnosed in the late fall of last year. He described the experience as humbling but noted the support he has found through the ALS Network nonprofit and a community of caring people. Receiving this diagnosis changed my life, Andrews said via the network's website. What I didn't expect was the depth of connection and support that comes with it.

The actor recounted that he first noticed symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic, initially fearing he had suffered a stroke. It was a stressful time, Andrews said, referring to industry-wide work stoppages and the 2023 actors strike. He described experiencing twitches and sensations he thought were pinched nerves in his neck. I was not able to do things that I normally do, he said. I was dropping...