Actor A. Russell Andrews, known for his roles in the series “Better Call Saul,” as well as his work in “Insecure,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,” and the film “Straight Outta Compton,” announced that he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a severe neurological disease also known as motor neurone disease.
Andrews shared the news during an appearance on CNN's "The Story Is," aired to mark ALS Awareness Month.
"I am a person living with ALS," the actor said during the interview, adding that his diagnosis was confirmed in late 2025.
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks the nerves responsible for muscle control. Over time, it causes muscle weakness, difficulty moving, speaking, and breathing, and there is currently no cure for the disease. Therapies can slow the progression of symptoms and help patients function more easily in their daily lives.
The actor said that his health problems began during the coronavirus pandemic, when he had symptoms that he believed indicated a stroke. He said that due to years of unemployment, he was left without health insurance, which is why certain signs of the disease were not recognized in time.
"It was a very difficult experience, but at the same time I met caring and supportive people," Endrus said.
He spoke in particular about the help of family and loved ones while dealing with the diagnosis.
"My family did not allow me to lack attention, care and support," the actor said.
His fiancée Erika Tazel recalled the moment they learned the diagnosis.
"I looked at him and said, 'At least now we know what it is and I still want to be your wife,'" Tazel said.
In recent years, more and more celebrities have spoken out publicly about their struggles with ALS, in an effort to raise awareness about the disease and the challenges patients face. Earlier this year, actor Eric Dane, known for his role in the TV series “Euphoria,” died from ALS.
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