Eric Dane, the beloved actor known for iconic roles in “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria,” passed away at age 53 on a Thursday. His family shared that he died from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), just months after revealing his diagnosis. In a heartfelt statement, they shared how he spent his last days surrounded by loved ones, including his wife and two daughters. Eric was not only a cherished father and husband but also a passionate advocate for ALS awareness.
Dane rose to fame in the mid-2000s. He became a fan favorite as Dr. Mark Sloan, aka McSteamy, on “Grey’s Anatomy,” a role he portrayed from 2006 to 2012 and reprised in 2021. His character left a lasting impact, leading to the renaming of Seattle Grace Hospital to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital after a pivotal storyline.
In 2019, Dane took on a different role as Cal Jacobs in HBO’s “Euphoria,” showing off his versatility as an actor. He also starred in “The Last Ship,” which faced production halts due to Dane’s battle with depression.
In April 2025, he announced his ALS diagnosis. This progressive disease attacks the nerve cells controlling muscles. Stats show that most people diagnosed with ALS typically live three to five years after their diagnosis. Despite the challenges, Dane became a strong voice for ALS patients. He spoke at a news conference in Washington in June 2025, emphasizing the need for better health support for patients battling the disease. In recognition of his efforts, he received the ALS Network’s Advocate of the Year award later that year.
Dane’s journey wasn’t just about his acting career; it was also deeply personal. He was born on November 9, 1972, in Northern California and faced the tragic loss of his father at a young age. After high school, he moved to Los Angeles to chase his dreams, landing roles in shows like “Saved by the Bell” and “Charmed.”
Looking ahead, a memoir titled “Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments” is set to be released in late 2026. Dane expressed a desire to share his life’s key moments—from his time on set to his experiences with ALS. He hopes that his story will resonate with readers and help them find meaning in their own lives.
Eric Dane is survived by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia. Despite a complicated relationship, Gayheart reflected on their bond, describing it as filled with familial love and mutual support. Their story is a testament to resilience and the enduring power of love.
For more information on ALS and its impact, you can visit the ALS Association website.
