‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Alum Eric Dane Dead at 53 Nearly One Year After Revealing ALS Diagnosis

Eric Dane has died at the age of 53.

According to People, the actor passed away Thursday, February 19.

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” a statement shared with the outlet 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.”

“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,” the statement continued. “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 was born in San Francisco, California, on November 9, 1972, and he began acting in the 1990s with early guest roles on The Wonder Years, Charmed and Gideon’s Crossing before landing steady work in both film and television.

Dane was best known for his roles on Grey’s Anatomy and HBO’s Euphoria. Fans first fell for him as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan, the charming plastic surgeon who joined Grey’s Anatomy in 2006 and quickly became a fan favorite. His portrayal turned him into one of television’s most recognizable faces and helped solidify the show’s mark in pop culture history during its peak years.

After leaving Grey’s in 2012, Dane took on a variety of projects, including the TNT series The Last Ship, where he played Navy Captain Tom Chandler. The role marked his return to a leading role and showcased his ability to balance strength and emotional depth.

In 2019, Dane shocked viewers with his role on Euphoria, taking on Cal Jacobs, a father with a dark double life. The role was gritty and pushed the envelope in ways none of his previous characters had. It was proof that the former “McSteamy” could still take charge in every scene he touched.

Dane married actress Rebecca Gayheart in 2004, and together they shared two daughters. While Gayheart filed for divorce in 2018, the split was never finalized, and in early 2025 she moved to dismiss the petition. The following year Gayheart, 54, later described their relationship as having a “new normal” as co-parents and friends, rather than typical spouses.

In April 2025, Dane revealed that he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at just 52 years old.

“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” he shared in a statement given to People. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”

He continued, “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of Euphoria next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”

He is survived by Gayheart, 54, and his daughters, Billie and Georgia.