The global television community is in mourning following the news that Eric Dane has passed away at the age of 53. Best known for his iconic portrayal of Dr. Mark McSteamy Sloan on the long-running ABC medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, Dane died on Thursday after a year-long battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to the gradual paralysis of muscles. Dane’s representatives confirmed the news of his passing in a statement, mentioning that he spent his final moments surrounded by his loved ones. According to the statement shared by The Hollywood Reporter, “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife [actress Rebecca Gayheart] and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of the world.”
In the year following his diagnosis, Dane became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, using his platform to help others facing the same health struggle. The official statement mentioned, “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.”
Dane had previously spoken candidly about the physical toll of the disease. During an appearance on Good Morning America in June 2025, he revealed the challenges of living with the condition. He shared, “My left side is functioning, my right side has completely stopped working. I feel like maybe a couple more months and I won’t have my left hand either. It’s sobering.”
While Dane’s role as the charismatic plastic surgeon on Grey’s Anatomy earned him worldwide fame, his career spanned several other major projects. He played the captain of a US Navy destroyer in the drama The Last Ship for five seasons and more recently appeared as the father of Jacob Elordi’s character in the first two seasons of HBO’s Euphoria. His film credits included X-Men: The Last Stand, Marley & Me, and a role in the television series Charmed.
As the industry reflects on his legacy, his family has requested privacy while they navigate this difficult time.
Also Read: Bad Boys: Ride Or Die Movie Review
