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Actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles in Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at the age of 53, his family confirmed. His death comes about 10 months after he publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
In a statement, the family said, "With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS." They added that he was surrounded in his final moments by close friends, his wife Rebecca Gayheart, and their daughters, Billie and Georgia, whom they described as the centre of his world. The family also requested privacy as they navigate what they called an "impossible time."
Dane rose to widespread fame as Dr. Mark Sloan, nicknamed "McSteamy", on Grey's Anatomy. Originally introduced for a brief appearance in 2006, the character quickly became a fan favourite, turning Dane into a series regular for several seasons. He later expanded his television career with roles including Cal Jacobs on Euphoria and Admiral Tom Chandler on The Last Ship, while also appearing in films such as Burlesque, Valentine's Day, Marley & Me and X-Men: The Last Stand.
Following his ALS diagnosis in 2025, Dane continued working and became increasingly vocal about raising awareness of the degenerative disease. ALS is a progressive neurological condition that affects nerve cells controlling voluntary muscle movement, eventually impacting speech, mobility and breathing. There is currently no cure.
Speaking after revealing his diagnosis, Dane expressed gratitude for the support around him, saying he was "grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter." His family noted that throughout his illness he remained committed to advocacy efforts and was determined to help others facing the same condition.
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane discovered acting in high school after initially focusing on water polo. He later moved to Los Angeles to pursue the craft, eventually landing guest roles on shows such as Saved by the Bell, Roseanne, Charmed and Gideon's Crossing before achieving breakthrough success on Grey's Anatomy.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dane was open about personal struggles, including depression and addiction, and spoke candidly in interviews about the challenges he faced. He married Gayheart in 2004, and the couple welcomed their two daughters in 2010 and 2011.
Tributes from colleagues and fans have continued to pour in, remembering Dane not only for his on-screen presence but also for his advocacy work following his diagnosis. His family said he "will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always."
