Broadway Star Aaron Lazar Opens Up About Living with ALS, Filming 'Countdown' with Eric Dane, and Launching New Podcast
Aaron Lazar, a Broadway veteran known for his powerful performances in shows like "Les Misérables" and "The Last Five Years," has been living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) since 2022. In a candid interview, Lazar shared the emotional bond he formed with co-star Eric Dane on the Amazon MGM series "Countdown," which was filmed months before Dane publicly disclosed his own ALS diagnosis.
When Lazar met Dane on set, he noticed something was off about the actor's handshake. "I could see and feel that something was wrong," Lazar recalled. "I asked him what was going on, and Eric said to me, 'I think I have what you have.'" The two actors quickly formed a strong connection, bonding over their shared experience with ALS.
Lazar's diagnosis in 2022 marked the beginning of an intense period of physical decline. "It was like my body was shutting down," he said. "I had to learn how to adapt and find new ways to do things." Despite the challenges, Lazar continued to work on various projects, including a guest spot on "Countdown."
The series, which premiered in 2024, follows a group of strangers who are brought together for a mysterious countdown. Dane plays one of the main characters, and his performance was met with critical acclaim. When asked about working with Dane, Lazar praised his co-star's dedication to the role. "Eric was completely immersed in the character," he said. "He was always pushing himself to be better."
Lazar's experience on set also sparked an idea for a new podcast, which he plans to launch soon. Titled "ALS Unscripted," the podcast will feature Lazar and other ALS patients sharing their stories and experiences with the disease.
The entertainment industry has taken notice of Lazar's courage in speaking out about his diagnosis. "Aaron's story is a powerful reminder that ALS affects not just individuals, but also their loved ones and communities," said Dr. Merit Cudkowicz, director of the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Lazar's journey with ALS has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. As he continues to work on new projects and advocate for ALS awareness, his message remains clear: "ALS may take away our physical abilities, but it will never take away our spirit or our creativity."
Background: Aaron Lazar is a Tony Award-nominated actor who has appeared in numerous Broadway productions, including "Les Misérables" and "The Last Five Years." He was diagnosed with ALS in 2022.
Current Status: Lazar continues to work on various projects, including his new podcast, "ALS Unscripted," which he plans to launch soon.
*Reporting by Variety.*
