Additional Coverage:
- Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane dies aged 53 after battle with ALS (themirror.com)
Hollywood Mourns Loss of Beloved Actor Eric Dane at 53
Los Angeles, CA – The entertainment world is in mourning following the passing of acclaimed actor Eric Dane, who died Thursday, February 19, at the age of 53 after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Dane, a familiar face to millions from his roles in hit series like “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria,” was diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, in April 2025. In January 2026, he openly shared his struggles with the “physical realities” of the disease, which had led to the loss of function in his right arm and necessitated 24/7 care.
His family confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement shared with PEOPLE, announcing his peaceful passing surrounded by loved ones. “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” the statement read. “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.”
The family’s statement further highlighted Dane’s dedication to advocacy during his illness. “Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received.
The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”
Dane’s career spanned over three decades, captivating audiences with his diverse range of characters. He was perhaps best known for his iconic portrayal of the charming and intelligent Dr.
Mark Sloan, affectionately nicknamed “McSteamy,” on the medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy.” As the Head of Plastic Surgery at Seattle Grace Mercy West Hospital, Dane graced the screen from seasons 2 through 9, with a special guest appearance in season 17.
More recently, Dane garnered critical acclaim for his role as the complex Cal Jacobs, the closeted father of Nate Jacobs, in the HBO series “Euphoria,” a character he brought to life for two seasons.
His extensive television credits also included recurring roles as Jason Dean in “Charmed,” Captain Tom Chandler in TNT’s “The Last Ship,” and FBI Special Agent Nathan Blythe in the Prime Video crime series “Countdown.” On the big screen, Dane appeared in over 21 films, including “Redeeming Love” (2002), “Marley and Me” (2008), “Valentine’s Day” (2010), “Burlesque” (2010), “Dangerous Waters” (2023), “Americana” (2023), and upcoming projects “Bad Boys 4” (2024) and “One Fast Move” (2024).
Eric Dane is survived by his two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14, whom he shared with his former wife, Rebecca Gayheart. Though no longer married, Gayheart remained a supportive presence, actively assisting with his caregiving during his illness.
In his final months, Dane became a vocal champion for ALS awareness and research, dedicating his efforts to improving the lives of those living with the disease. He notably traveled to Washington, D.C., with I AM ALS, lobbying for legislation such as the ACT For ALS law.
Though unable to accept the Advocate of the Year award at the ALS Network’s Champions for Cures and Care Gala in 2026 in person, Dane delivered a powerful pre-taped message. “This award is not just for me, it’s for my beautiful family and loved ones who are fighting, and it’s for every person who has faced ALS with courage, for every caregiver who gives their heart – day after day – and for every advocate who is a voice for progress,” he shared.
He concluded his inspiring address with a resolute message of hope: “The ALS Network makes a powerful impact by uniting care and research to improve and extend the lives of people living with ALS. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this. With help from the ALS Network, we will finally kick the s— out of ALS.”
Read More About This Story:
- Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane dies aged 53 after battle with ALS (themirror.com)