Patrick Dempsey’s ‘Memory of a Killer’ Hits UK as Star Addresses Co-Star’s ALS

LONDON (Azat TV) – Esteemed actor Patrick Dempsey, widely known for his iconic role as Dr. Derek Shepherd in Grey’s Anatomy, is back in the spotlight with his new thriller series, Memory of a Killer, which is set to premiere on Prime Video in the UK on Thursday, February 5, 2026. The series, which has already begun airing in the U.S. on Fox since January 25, 2026, sees Dempsey in a complex dual role, drawing significant attention as he simultaneously navigates public interest in a former co-star’s health battle and his own personal history.

Patrick Dempsey’s New Thriller: ‘Memory of a Killer’

Memory of a Killer, inspired by the 2003 Belgian thriller De Zaak Alzheimer, casts Patrick Dempsey as Angelo Flannery/Doyle, a man living a dangerous double life as a New York City hitman and a mild-mannered photocopier salesman. The premise introduces a compelling twist: Angelo is slowly losing his memory, a condition further complicated by the mysterious death of his wife and threats to his pregnant daughter. The series is described as a ‘redemptive story about a man who is losing his memory but gaining a conscience,’ as reported by Radio Times.

Dempsey is joined by Michael Imperioli, known for his role in The Sopranos, who plays Dutch Forlanni, Angelo’s oldest friend and employer whose restaurant serves as a front for a criminal enterprise. Reviews have celebrated the performances, particularly Dempsey’s portrayal of Angelo, noting the fascinating power dynamics between the two lead characters. MovieWeb highlighted the show’s compelling narrative, stating that it ‘tells a compelling story about a main character who lives a complicated and morally ambiguous life.’ The series premiered with its first two episodes in the UK and will release subsequent installments weekly.

Dempsey Addresses Eric Dane’s ALS Diagnosis

Amidst the launch of his new series, Patrick Dempsey has also provided a poignant update regarding his former Grey’s Anatomy co-star, Eric Dane. Dempsey confirmed that Dane, who famously played Dr. Mark Sloan, is battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), an incurable neurodegenerative disorder. Dane announced his diagnosis in April 2025 and has since spoken openly about his condition, even appearing as an ALS patient in an episode of NBC’s Brilliant Minds.

Dempsey expressed his admiration for Dane’s courage, stating, ‘He’s such a wonderful human being. He has such a great sense of humor, and he’s so intelligent.’ He revealed that he had attempted to cast Dane in Memory of a Killer, but the progression of Dane’s disease made it ‘virtually impossible,’ as reported by The Independent. Dempsey shared his heartbreak over the rapid deterioration caused by ALS, noting, ‘You feel for them when you see this terrible disease and how quickly it attacks the body.’ Dane’s wife, Rebecca Gayheart, has also spoken about her efforts to secure 24/7 nursing care for her husband, highlighting the severe challenges faced by families dealing with ALS.

Public Interest in Patrick Dempsey’s Personal History

As Patrick Dempsey returns to a prominent role, public interest has also resurfaced regarding elements of his personal life, including his past relationships. Articles published recently have revisited his first marriage to Rochelle ‘Rocky’ Parker, which occurred in 1991 when Dempsey was 25 and Parker was 51. The relationship, which began when Dempsey was 18 and Parker was 44, reportedly remained a secret for two years due to the significant age gap. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1994 after seven years.

Dempsey has openly reflected on this period, describing it as a challenging time from which he is ‘still undoing’ negative aspects, according to Tyla. He later married make-up artist Jillian Fink in 1999, with whom he shares three children. The couple celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in July 2024, and Fink notably lauded Dempsey when he was named ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ in 2023 by People magazine, underscoring his enduring appeal and sustained career.

Patrick Dempsey’s ability to transition from a beloved TV heartthrob to a lead in a dark thriller, while openly addressing personal and professional challenges, demonstrates a strategic evolution of his public persona. This blend of high-stakes drama and genuine human connection likely contributes to his continued relevance and widespread public engagement.